Sour Cream and Onion Chicken

Why You’ll Love Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe

This recipe transforms simple chicken into a rich and satisfying dish with minimal effort. The tangy sour cream pairs beautifully with sautéed onions and herbs, creating a luscious sauce that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. It’s quick to prepare, uses common ingredients, and pairs well with a variety of sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• Sour cream

• Onion, finely chopped

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Chicken broth or stock

• Olive oil or butter

• Onion powder

• Dried herbs (such as thyme or parsley)

• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant.

2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Add chicken to the skillet and brown on both sides until golden (about 4-5 minutes per side).

3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

5. Lower the heat and stir in sour cream until smooth. Add dried herbs and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

6. Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.

7. Serve the chicken topped with the creamy sour cream and onion sauce.

Servings and Timing

Serves 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese to the sauce for added richness.

• Mushroom Addition: Add sliced mushrooms when sautéing onions for an earthy flavor.

• Herb Mix: Use fresh herbs like rosemary, basil, or tarragon instead of dried.

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the sauce for mild heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs work well and tend to stay juicier during cooking.

Is sour cream necessary, or can I substitute it?

Sour cream adds tang and creaminess, but Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be used as substitutes.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free sour cream alternative and a suitable broth to make this recipe dairy-free.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Simmer the sauce gently on low heat and avoid boiling once sour cream is added.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, it reheats well and flavors develop even more after resting overnight.

What sides go well with this chicken?

Mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread are great options.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Simmer the sauce uncovered for a few more minutes or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, peas, carrots, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition and color.

How do I make the sauce more flavorful?

Add sautéed garlic, caramelized onions, or a splash of white wine to boost depth.

Conclusion

Sour Cream and Onion Chicken is a deliciously creamy and tangy dish that elevates simple chicken into a comforting meal. With a quick preparation and versatile flavor profile, it’s perfect for weeknights or casual dinners. Paired with your favorite sides, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Sour Cream and Onion Chicken

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Tender chicken breasts baked in a creamy sour cream and onion sauce, delivering a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. This easy recipe combines the tanginess of sour cream with savory onions and herbs for a delicious meal served alongside rice, potatoes, or veggies.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Searing
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 packet (about 1 oz) onion soup mix
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned (they will finish cooking in the oven).
• In a bowl, mix sour cream and onion soup mix until well combined.
• Place seared chicken breasts in a baking dish and spread the sour cream mixture evenly over the top.
• Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
• Garnish with chopped chives or parsley before serving.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
• Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.