Smothered Creamy Chicken Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This smothered creamy chicken skillet is a winner for its balance of flavor, simplicity, and versatility. The seasoned and pan-fried chicken creates a crispy, golden crust that’s smothered in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce infused with sautéed onions and spices. It’s a one-pan meal that delivers restaurant-quality taste without complicated steps. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

• ⅓ cup heavy cream

• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create two thinner cutlets.

2. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.

3. Dredge each chicken cutlet in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

5. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add sliced onions and sauté until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.

6. Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of the leftover seasoned flour into the skillet and stir to coat the onions.

7. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine and thicken. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.

8. Stir in the heavy cream and return the chicken to the skillet. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce is thickened and the chicken is fully coated.

9. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy flavor.

• Make it cheesy: Add grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella to the sauce for extra richness.

• Spicy version: Double the cayenne or add red pepper flakes for a kick.

• Use chicken thighs: Swap breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result.

• Herb variation: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce. Microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals if you’re short on time.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to be juicier than breasts.

2. What sides go well with smothered creamy chicken?

Mashed potatoes, steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or pasta are great options.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare and store in the fridge. Reheat gently when ready to serve.

4. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. For a creamier texture, try half-and-half as a substitute.

5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

7. Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

8. How can I thicken the sauce more?

Simmer it a bit longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water).

9. Can I add garlic to the sauce?

Absolutely. Add 1–2 minced garlic cloves when sautéing the onions for extra flavor.

10. What skillet is best for this recipe?

A large cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal for even cooking and browning.

Conclusion

Smothered creamy chicken skillet is a cozy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Its creamy, seasoned sauce brings richness to every bite, while the one-pan method keeps things easy and efficient. Whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining, this dish is sure to leave everyone satisfied.