Sour Cream Onion Chicken Dish

This tender sour cream and onion chicken is a comforting weeknight meal that comes together easily with simple ingredients. The creamy sauce is rich and flavorful without needing hours of cooking making it a reliable choice when you want something warm and satisfying on the table.

I first made this recipe when I was short on time but didn’t want takeout. It quickly became a family favorite we often come back to for its ease and comforting flavors.

Ingredients

• Two boneless skinless chicken breasts: work best for even cooking and tenderness
• Garlic powder: adds a mild garlic flavor that infuses the chicken without overpowering it
• Salt and pepper: to taste for balanced seasoning
• Olive oil: helps create a golden crust on the chicken
• Butter: divided to build richness first with the chicken then with the onions
• One medium onion: sliced thinly for sweetness and texture in the sauce
• One clove garlic: minced fresh garlic brightens the sauce
• Half a cup of chicken broth: adds moisture and depth to the sauce
• One teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: brings umami richness and balances the creaminess
• One cup of full-fat sour cream: makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and silky
• Fresh chopped parsley: is optional but adds a fresh herbal note at the end

Instructions

Cut The Chicken:

Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise creating four thin pieces for quicker cooking. Sprinkle the garlic powder with salt and pepper evenly on both sides for flavor that penetrates the meat.

Heat The Pan And Cook Chicken:

Add olive oil and one tablespoon of butter to a skillet. Heat over medium-high until the butter foams and the pan is hot but not smoking. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they develop a deep golden crust and reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.

Sauté The Onions:

Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining butter. Add the sliced onions stirring occasionally letting them soften and caramelize lightly for 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning letting them cook slowly so their natural sugars develop a sweet depth.

Add Garlic And Deglaze:

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning. Pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce scraping the brown bits off the bottom of the pan using a wooden spoon. This adds flavor to the sauce.

Make The Sauce:

Stir in the sour cream off the heat to avoid curdling. Mix until you have a smooth sauce then return the pan to low heat for a couple minutes just to warm the sauce through gently. Watch closely so it does not boil.

Combine And Serve:

Return the chicken to the skillet spooning sauce over the pieces. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a bright finish and serve immediately.

Sour cream is my favorite for this dish because of its tangy creaminess which balances the caramelized onions perfectly. This recipe reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone gathers around enjoying simple food made from scratch that warms both body and soul.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth. Avoid high heat to prevent the sour cream from separating.

Ingredient Swaps

Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a tangier and slightly thicker sauce. Use coconut aminos if you want to skip Worcestershire sauce but it changes the flavor slightly. Yellow onions are best for sweetness but feel free to try red or shallots for variation.

Serving Ideas

This chicken shines served over creamy mashed potatoes fluffy rice or buttered egg noodles. Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli make a fresh crunchy side. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness.

Sour cream and onion chicken continues to be a simple dependable recipe in my cooking repertoire. It pairs well with so many sides and always feels like home cooking comfort food. This one’s definitely worth keeping in your weeknight rotation.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What cut of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for even cooking and tender results in this dish.

→ How do I prevent the sour cream from curdling?

Gently heat the sauce after adding sour cream without boiling; keep it on low heat to maintain smoothness.

→ Can I substitute the sour cream with something else?

Full-fat Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can offer similar creaminess while altering the flavor slightly.

→ What side dishes pair well with this chicken?

This creamy chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered pasta to soak up the sauce.

→ How long should I sauté the onions?

Sauté onions over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until they soften and turn lightly golden to enhance their natural sweetness.