Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe

This Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, tangy, and bursting with savory onion flavors, it transforms simple chicken breasts or thighs into a luxurious meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sour cream and onion soup mix creates a rich and creamy sauce that elevates the taste of chicken.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a mouthwatering dinner on the table in less than an hour.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve this dish with your favorite sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, this recipe is suitable for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking the Sour Cream and Onion Chicken, gather your tools to ensure an easy cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Cooking utensils (spatula, tongs)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken and then transferring directly to the oven for baking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly as soon as it’s placed inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. Season both sides with garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), and black pepper.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken breasts and sear for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Onions

1. In the same skillet, add sliced onions.
2. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Create Sauce

1. Stir in chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
2. Reduce heat to low; mix in sour cream and onion soup mix until fully combined.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. Return chicken breasts to the skillet.
2. Spoon some of the sauce over each piece of chicken.
3. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over everything.

Step 7: Bake

Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 8: Final Touches

Remove from oven; let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley to enhance presentation.

Now you’re ready to serve this delectable Sour Cream and Onion Chicken! Enjoy it hot alongside your favorite sides for a comforting meal that everyone will love.

How to Serve Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe

This Sour Cream and Onion Chicken recipe is not just a dish; it’s a complete experience. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it versatile, allowing you to pair it with various sides that enhance its flavor.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice, perfect for soaking up the rich sauce of the chicken.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to create a hearty meal that is both comforting and filling.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Fresh steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans add a nutritious crunch that complements the softness of the chicken.

In a Wrap

• For a fun twist, shred the cooked chicken and serve it in a wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite dressing.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty bread or dinner rolls can be used to scoop up the creamy sauce, adding an enjoyable texture to your meal.

How to Perfect Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe

To make sure your Sour Cream and Onion Chicken turns out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Using fresh, high-quality chicken breasts or thighs will ensure better flavor and tenderness in your dish.
• Sear for Flavor: Make sure to sear the chicken well before baking. This step adds depth of flavor through caramelization.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your cooking time; overcooking can dry out the chicken. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust seasonings to suit your preference. You can add more garlic powder or even herbs like thyme for extra flavor.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances freshness in every bite.

Best Side Dishes for Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Sour Cream and Onion Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some recommended options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic for added flavor.
2. Wild Rice Pilaf: A nutty wild rice blend that provides texture and complements the creaminess of the chicken.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with olive oil and salt for a deliciously earthy side.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables that adds freshness alongside the rich chicken dish.
5. Cauliflower Rice: Lighten things up with cauliflower rice, which is low-carb but still satisfying when paired with the creamy sauce.
6. Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus spears lightly steamed make for an elegant side that balances richness beautifully.
7. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.
8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the sour cream sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Sour Cream and Onion Chicken recipe can be simple, but some common errors can ruin the dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to blandness. Always season your chicken with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for juicy results.
• Not using enough broth: Using insufficient broth can result in a dry sauce. Ensure you add enough chicken broth to create a creamy consistency.
• Ignoring rest time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for 5 minutes for better flavor and tenderness.
• Forgetting garnishes: Skipping fresh parsley reduces visual appeal and freshness. Always garnish your dish before serving for that extra touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• It’s best to portion it out for easy reheating later.

Reheating Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely to avoid splatter, reheating in intervals of 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Sour Cream and Onion Chicken recipe:

Can I use other meats besides chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or even beef if you’re looking for different flavors.

Is there a vegetarian version of Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe?

You can substitute chicken with firm tofu or seitan and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based twist.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer for accurate results.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables complement this Sour Cream and Onion Chicken beautifully.

Final Thoughts

The Sour Cream and Onion Chicken recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices! Try this delicious dish today!