Name: Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt & pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter, divided; 1 medium onion, sliced; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup full-fat sour cream; Fresh chopped parsley, optional, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 5 reviews

If you are craving a comforting dinner that balances creamy richness with vibrant onion flavors, this Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Tender, pan-fried chicken breasts get enveloped in a luscious, homemade sour cream and onion sauce that is simple yet truly indulgent. Every bite delivers that cozy, savory satisfaction that reminds you of classic comfort food but with a fresh, bright twist. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, this dish hits all the right notes with its perfect harmony of flavor and texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two side-by-side views of a black cast iron pan on a white marbled surface. On the left side, there are four pieces of browned cooked meat, placed evenly to cover the pan's base, each piece having a golden-brown color with light seasoning visible on the surface. On the right side, the pan contains rings of sliced white onions spread out with two small cubes of pale yellow butter melting nearby, all resting on the black pan surface which has some brown cooking marks. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe comes together with a handful of everyday ingredients that each play an essential role. From the juicy chicken to the silky sour cream, every component builds the dish’s irresistible character.

Chicken breasts: Butterflied for even cooking and maximum tenderness.
Garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth to the chicken seasoning.
Salt & pepper: Essential for balanced seasoning that enhances all flavors.
Olive oil: Provides a light, clean base for frying the chicken evenly.
Butter: Divided use for rich sautéed onions and added flavor in the sauce.
Onion: Sliced thinly to become sweet and beautifully caramelized.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic brings a punch of aromatic warmth to the sauce.
Chicken broth: Adds savory moisture and helps deglaze the pan for flavor concentration.
Worcestershire sauce: A secret umami booster that rounds out the sauce perfectly.
Sour cream: Full-fat for that creamy tang and luscious texture in the sauce.
Fresh parsley: Optional but brightens the plate and adds a pop of fresh color.

How to Make Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless skinless chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces that cook quickly and evenly. Sprinkle each piece generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning lays the groundwork for flavorful chicken with a subtly garlicky undertone that works beautifully with the creamy sauce later.

Step 2: Pan-Fry the Chicken

Heat olive oil and half the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the pan and cook about 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until each is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This step ensures a tender, juicy chicken with a slightly crisp crust that will hold up wonderfully under the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining butter and sliced onions to the same skillet. Slowly sauté the onions, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes until they become soft and lightly browned. This caramelization brings out the natural sweetness in the onions, which is key for the signature flavor of this Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Deglaze

Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits stuck to the pan. This is where the sauce builds its deep, savory foundation.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce and Combine

Reduce the heat to low and gently whisk in the full-fat sour cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Heat through for a couple of minutes, but be careful not to let the sauce bubble too vigorously, or it might curdle. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce generously over the top. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

How to Serve Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe

The image shows a black pan filled with four browned chicken pieces partially covered by a thick creamy beige sauce with small bits of sliced onions. The sauce coats the chicken unevenly, pooling more around the edges and has a smooth, slightly chunky texture sprinkled lightly with chopped green herbs. The pan rests on a white marbled surface, and tiny green herb bits are scattered around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling fresh chopped parsley not only adds a lovely green hue but also brightens the rich sauce with its subtle herbaceous notes. For an extra touch, a few thin slices of green onion or chives work beautifully to enhance the onion theme without overpowering the flavors.

Side Dishes

This creamy chicken pairs perfectly with simple sides that can soak up the delicious sauce. Think fluffy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or even steamed rice. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad can add fresh texture and balance out the richness for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken sliced over toasted rye bread or crunchy baguette slices as a warm appetizer. Alternatively, layering the creamy chicken over baked potatoes with a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese makes for an irresistibly comforting presentation that friends and family will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any remaining chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinners during the week.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container. It’s best eaten within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture. When thawing, place it in the refrigerator overnight for gentle defrosting.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave at medium power. Stir occasionally to prevent the sour cream sauce from separating, and add a splash of chicken broth if it seems too thick. This careful reheating preserves the creamy consistency and delicious taste.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well and offer a bit more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through properly.

Is it okay to use low-fat sour cream?

While full-fat sour cream creates the creamiest, richest sauce, you can use low-fat versions if you prefer. Just be mindful that the sauce may be a bit thinner and less indulgent, but still tasty.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the sour cream with a coconut cream or a dairy-free sour cream alternative. You may want to use a bit more broth to maintain the right sauce consistency.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to ensure the chicken is safe to eat is by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Alternatively, cut into the thickest part to check that the juices run clear without any pink inside.

Can this recipe be doubled?

Yes, doubling the recipe is straightforward. Just make sure you use a large enough skillet or cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent proper browning.

Final Thoughts

This Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe combines ease and elegance in the best way possible, turning simple ingredients into a dish full of heart and flavor. I promise you’ll love the tender chicken enveloped in that dreamy, creamy sauce. It’s a fantastic recipe to keep in your rotation whenever you need a quick, comforting meal that feels a little special. Go ahead, give it a try, and watch it become one of your all-time favorites!