Smothered Creamy Chicken Skillet

Why You’ll Love Smothered Creamy Chicken Skillet Recipe

The Smothered Creamy Chicken Skillet is a delicious, one-pan dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy, savory sauce. It’s packed with flavor and makes for a comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknights. This recipe is easy to prepare, quick to cook, and incredibly satisfying. The creamy sauce is rich but not heavy, and the chicken turns out juicy and tender every time. Plus, it’s made in a skillet, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)

• Olive oil

• Garlic (minced)

• Heavy cream

• Chicken broth

• Parmesan cheese

• Fresh thyme

• Fresh parsley

• Salt and pepper

• Optional: spinach or mushrooms for added texture and flavor

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook them in the skillet for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer.

5. Once the sauce thickens, stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines smoothly into the sauce.

6. Add fresh thyme and parsley to the sauce for extra flavor.

7. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Simmer for 5 more minutes until the chicken is heated through and coated with the creamy sauce.

8. Optionally, add spinach or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to make the dish even more filling and flavorful.

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce to give the dish a little heat.

• Different proteins: Instead of chicken, try using pork chops or even a vegetarian option like tofu for a different twist.

• Dairy-free: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to make it dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but the cooking time will be longer. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

2. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, half-and-half is a lighter option that will still work well, but it will make the sauce a little less rich and creamy.

3. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes! This recipe is low in carbs, especially if you skip adding extra vegetables like potatoes or peas.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a different flavor and texture to the dish, and they tend to stay juicier when cooked.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for an extra kick.

6. Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat on the stove when ready to eat.

7. How do I make this dairy-free?

To make the recipe dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream substitute and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.

9. What should I serve with this dish?

This creamy chicken goes great with a side of steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice. It also pairs well with a light salad.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe to serve more people. Just be sure to use a large enough skillet or cook in batches.

Conclusion

The Smothered Creamy Chicken Skillet is an easy and delicious dish that will quickly become a family favorite. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or make it spicy for an extra kick. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy!