Skillet Creamy Chicken: The Ultimate Comfort Food Delight
Skillet creamy chicken is a delightful dish that wraps you in warmth with every bite! Picture tender chicken simmered in a luscious, creamy sauce made with rich chicken broth and a splash of tangy lemon juice, all infused with garlic and herbs. This one-pan wonder is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it the perfect weeknight meal. Serve it over fluffy rice or alongside buttery mashed potatoes, and watch as your family gathers around the table, eager to dig into this comforting, heartwarming feast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
- Rich and creamy sauce that hugs every bite of chicken.
- Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies for added nutrition.
- Comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.
Table of Contents
skillet creamy chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Collect boneless chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, and your favorite herbs.
- Place a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in some olive oil.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
- Once the chicken is golden brown, remove it and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for a few minutes, then stir in the heavy cream.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle in your favorite herbs for extra flavor, like thyme or parsley.
- Let everything simmer together for a few minutes, then serve hot over rice or pasta.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 20 minutes |
| Total Time: | 30 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | With rice or pasta |
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts – lean protein that forms the base of the dish.
- Olive oil – for sautéing the chicken and adding healthy fats.
- Garlic – enhances flavor and adds aromatic depth.
- Onion – provides sweetness and a savory base.
- Chicken broth – adds moisture and rich flavor; use low-sodium for better control.
- Heavy cream – creates the creamy texture that makes this dish indulgent.
- Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the cream.
- Spinach – adds color and nutrients; fresh or frozen works well.
- Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning to taste.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up some delicious Skillet Creamy Chicken with these easy steps!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect boneless chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, and your favorite herbs.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Place a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in some olive oil.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
Once the chicken is golden brown, remove it and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for a few minutes, then stir in the heavy cream.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy sauce.
Step 7: Add Herbs
Sprinkle in your favorite herbs for extra flavor, like thyme or parsley.
Step 8: Simmer and Serve
Let everything simmer together for a few minutes, then serve hot over rice or pasta.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
- For a richer sauce, add a splash of chicken broth instead of wine.
- Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up that delicious creamy sauce.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
How to Serve
Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your Skillet Creamy Chicken:
- Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty meal.
- Pair with buttery mashed potatoes for ultimate comfort.
- Top with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.
- Accompany with steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy crunch.
- Serve in a warm tortilla for a creamy chicken wrap.
- Enjoy with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Pair with a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Allow the skillet creamy chicken to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
• Portion the skillet creamy chicken into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Seal tightly and label with the date.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of chicken broth for creaminess if needed.
• Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
FAQs
What can I use instead of heavy cream in the skillet creamy chicken recipe?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with a mixture of milk and cornstarch. Simply combine 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to achieve a similar creamy texture without the extra calories.
Can I add vegetables to the skillet creamy chicken?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your dish. Just sauté them along with the chicken for a delicious, colorful meal.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make skillet creamy chicken gluten-free, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent. Ensure that any broth or stock you use is also labeled gluten-free for a worry-free meal.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare skillet creamy chicken ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—Skillet Creamy Chicken, a dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia with every bite! It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any night of the week. So gather your loved ones, whip up this delightful recipe, and enjoy the smiles around the table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
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