Chicken Breast in Creamy Sauce
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of chicken breast in a velvety creamy sauce, perfect for dinner any night of the week.
This chicken breast in creamy sauce recipe is a family favorite that combines tender chicken with a luscious sauce that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy sauce that's irresistible
- Quick and easy to prepare for a weeknight dinner
- Perfectly seasoned chicken breast that pairs well with any side
The Perfect Weeknight Meal
When time is of the essence, finding a meal that is both quick and satisfying can be a challenge. This Chicken Breast in Creamy Sauce offers a delightful solution, allowing you to whip up a restaurant-quality dish in under 30 minutes. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that will impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
The creamy sauce is not only rich in flavor but also versatile. It pairs perfectly with various side dishes, from simple steamed vegetables to fluffy mashed potatoes or even a light salad. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for any weeknight dinner, ensuring that you can cater to different tastes and preferences with ease.
Cooking Tips for Success
To achieve the best results, it's essential to properly season your chicken breasts before cooking. A generous sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances the natural flavors and sets the stage for the creamy sauce. It's also advisable to use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, guaranteeing it's cooked through while remaining juicy.
Don't rush the sauce-making process. Allowing the garlic to sauté for just a minute before adding the liquids will infuse the sauce with a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor. Be sure to stir the Parmesan cheese in gradually, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce, creating a luxurious texture that clings beautifully to the chicken.
Pairing Suggestions
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Then, stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme. Bring to a simmer.
Finish the Dish
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your choice of side dishes.
Pair with steamed vegetables or pasta for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers of this Chicken Breast in Creamy Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture and flavor, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. This method allows the sauce to return to its creamy consistency without separating.
If you prefer to freeze your leftovers, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy again, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. While the sauce may lose some creaminess during freezing, it will still be flavorful and satisfying.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the sauce by adding your favorite herbs and spices. Fresh basil or oregano can provide a lovely twist, while a hint of lemon juice can brighten the flavors. Experiment with different cheese varieties, such as mozzarella or feta, for a unique touch.
For a bit of heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce into the creamy mixture. These small adjustments can transform the dish and cater to different palates, making it a family favorite that everyone can enjoy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier option.
→ Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream?
You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the creamy sauce?
Yes, the sauce can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Chicken Breast in Creamy Sauce
Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of chicken breast in a velvety creamy sauce, perfect for dinner any night of the week.
Created by: Natalie Evans
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Then, stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme. Bring to a simmer.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your choice of side dishes.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 40g