Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This creamy sour cream chicken recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor, making it a true winner in the world of quick dinner ideas. Forget complicated cooking techniques – this homemade cooking masterpiece is surprisingly straightforward, perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs looking for a satisfying, healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried dill
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Season and Sear: Season chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine. Add dried dill and paprika, stirring until evenly distributed.
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Simmer and Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Creamy Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and prevent steaming.
- Low and slow: Simmering the chicken in the sauce on low heat ensures tender, juicy results.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. You can also whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to thicken it further.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance the dish with your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, peas, carrots, or bell peppers. Add them along with the onions.
- Cheese please: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of simmering for extra cheesy goodness.
- Lemon zest: A teaspoon of lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the creamy sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This delicious sour cream chicken recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. It's a quick, easy, and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. From simple weeknight dinners to impressive dishes for guests, this recipe's versatility makes it a staple in any cook's repertoire of best recipes. Enjoy!