Sour Cream Onion Chicken – Creamy, Savory & Comforting

Sour Cream Onion Chicken is a deliciously creamy, savory dish that transforms simple chicken breasts into a gourmet meal. The tender chicken is coated in a luscious sour cream and onion sauce, delivering rich flavor with every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even a special occasion, this dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity and depth of flavor. By searing the chicken to perfection and slowly caramelizing onions, you create a robust base for the creamy sauce. The addition of Worcestershire sauce brings a subtle umami punch, while sour cream adds richness and tang. Even novice cooks can master this recipe with confidence.

Whether you’re aiming for comfort food or a sophisticated weeknight dinner, this Sour Cream Onion Chicken hits all the right notes—creamy, flavorful, and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 120 milliliters chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 240 milliliters full-fat sour cream
• Fresh chopped parsley, optional, for garnish

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Halve the chicken breasts lengthwise to create four thinner pieces for even cooking.
2. Season both sides with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken pieces and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 74°C / 165°F).
3. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions

1. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter along with the sliced onion.
2. Cook gently for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions soften and lightly caramelize. Adjust heat to prevent burning.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

1. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift any browned bits from searing.

Step 5: Add Sour Cream

1. Reduce heat to low and whisk in sour cream until smooth.
2. Warm gently for 2 minutes, making sure not to boil to prevent curdling.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

1. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, coating each piece generously with the creamy sauce.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
3. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips for the Perfect Dish

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Halving the breasts ensures even cooking and prevents dryness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Caramelize slowly: Cooking onions gently allows their natural sugars to develop, creating a richer, sweeter flavor.
• Avoid boiling the sauce: Sour cream can curdle if heated too quickly, so maintain low heat when combining with broth.
• Customize flavors: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
• Serving ideas: This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles to soak up the creamy sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables make a nutritious side.

Storage and Make-Ahead

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwave reheating at high temperatures to prevent curdling.
• Make-ahead tip: You can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it with freshly cooked chicken just before serving.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless skinless chicken thighs work well, providing extra juiciness and flavor. Adjust cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.

2. Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute sour cream with a non-dairy option like coconut cream or cashew cream. Use plant-based butter as needed.

3. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the sauce and chicken separately. Reheat and combine just before serving for the freshest results.

4. How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stir into the simmering sauce until thickened.

5. Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly! Mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can be sautéed with the onions for extra flavor and nutrition.

6. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes. Chicken and sauce can be stored separately and reheated for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Sour Cream Onion Chicken is a versatile, comforting dish that balances rich creaminess with savory flavors. With tender chicken, caramelized onions, and a luscious sauce, it makes an ideal centerpiece for both casual and special meals. The best part? It’s quick to prepare, satisfying, and full of flavor.

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