Smothered Creamy Skillet Chicken

Why You’ll Love Smothered Creamy Skillet Chicken Recipe

This creamy skillet chicken is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also delivers restaurant-quality flavor right at home. The combination of garlic, herbs, and Dijon mustard in a velvety sauce makes every bite rich and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.

Ingredients

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

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.

3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits.

6. Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, bringing the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

7. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the sauce.

8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 380 kcal per serving

Variations

• Mushroom addition: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy, hearty touch.

• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

• Cheesy version: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese for an extra creamy, cheesy flavor.

• Herb swap: Try using rosemary or Italian seasoning instead of thyme for a different herbal profile.

• Lighter option: Substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for the heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second increments until heated through.

FAQs

What can I serve with creamy skillet chicken?

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work just as well and may even stay juicier during cooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, it’s gluten-free. Just be sure your chicken broth and Dijon mustard are certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate when thawed.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead, but for best texture, reheat gently and serve fresh.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

You can substitute it with regular yellow mustard or a touch of whole grain mustard for a similar tang.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can try using coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, but it may alter the flavor.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

Vegetable broth or even water with a bouillon cube can be used in a pinch.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Simmer it a bit longer or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water to achieve your desired thickness.

Conclusion

Smothered Creamy Skillet Chicken is a quick, easy, and delicious dinner that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, it’s bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight or a dinner party, this dish will not disappoint.