Sour Cream and Onion Chicken is a 30m Creamy Easy Delish.

Sour Cream and Onion Chicken started as a weeknight lifeline in my kitchen. It grew from years in professional kitchens and a love for homecooked meals. Those meals never sacrifice flavor. As a chef who runs Cookeroni, I design trust-in-the-tray meals. Busy Americans can actually pull them off after a long day. This recipe is a creamy, comforting solution. It comes together in about 30 minutes, yet tastes like it simmered all afternoon. If you’re a working mom or a professional, you care about family dinners. You’ll appreciate how it balances speed with a lush sauce and easy customization. Read on to see why Sour Cream and Onion Chicken became a weekday staple. It could become one in your kitchen too.

Table of Contents

What Makes Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Special

Sour Cream and Onion Chicken is my weeknight confidant. I reach for a dish that delivers comfort fast. Creamy sauce plus onion warmth, with tender chicken. It feels grown-up and cozy at the same time.

This recipe fits a busy schedule without skimping on flavor. In a single skillet, dinner comes together, then clean-up is easy. I love how you can tweak it with what’s in the fridge. Leftovers taste just as good, making tomorrow’s lunch feel planned. Sour Cream and Onion Chicken is a keeper in my kitchen. The trick is simple pantry staples doing the heavy lifting. It travels well to potlucks or late-night cravings.

A chef’s perspective on Sour Cream and Onion Chicken

From my kitchen, Sour Cream and Onion Chicken feels like a hug in a skillet. I love the way the tangy sauce clings to every bite.

I learned to trust its balance of tang and sweetness after many test runs.

Comfort, speed, and reliability in every bite of Sour Cream and Onion Chicken

It blends comfort and pantry practicality.

On busy nights, I know I can pull this off with minimal fuss.

That reliability keeps dinners warm and conversations flowing around the table.

Why You’ll Love Sour Cream and Onion Chicken

The ease: quick 30-minute weeknight dinner

When time is tight, Sour Cream and Onion Chicken saves weeknights. I pull it together in about 30 minutes, from pantry to plate. One skillet means easy clean-up. The ingredients are simple, yet the sauce feels luxurious.

Flavor payoff that both adults and kids crave in Sour Cream and Onion Chicken

It’s a tangy-sweet onion sauce that coats every bite. The chicken stays juicy beneath a creamy blanket. Even picky eaters often ask for seconds. It tastes indulgent but is weekday-friendly, a combo I love.

Ingredients

I reach for this exact lineup every time I make Sour Cream and Onion Chicken. It keeps prep simple and flavors rich, perfect for a busy weeknight. Each ingredient plays a part, from browning the chicken to giving the sauce its velvet finish.

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ¾ cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish

Note: Optional ingredients and substitutions can be listed here, with gluten-free notes; the recipe’s core was designed to be gluten-free if you skip the flour.

Gluten-free option: omit flour or use a gluten-free thickener. Dairy-free option: use coconut yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream substitute plus a splash of dairy-free milk. Exact quantities are printed at the bottom of the recipe card or available for printing.

Skillet of chicken garnished with parsley and sauce
Simple ingredients, gourmet flavor!

How to Make Sour Cream and Onion Chicken

Step 1 – Season and prep Sour Cream and Onion Chicken

I season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder.

Pat the breasts dry and let them rest a few minutes to stay juicy.

Step 2 – Sear the chicken to golden perfection

Heat 2 tablespoons oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Cook the chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

Transfer to a plate and cover loosely to rest.

Step 3 – Sauté onions and garlic for depth

In the same skillet, add the sliced onion.

Sauté 6–8 minutes until soft and golden, stirring often for even color.

Add the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4 – Build the sauce with broth and cream

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up the browned bits.

Simmer 2 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate flavor.

Turn the heat to low and whisk in sour cream.

If you’re using flour, whisk in 1 tablespoon before the sour cream for a thicker sauce.

Step 5 – Finish, simmer, and serve with your favorite starch

Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top.

Simmer gently 3–4 minutes to meld flavors and heat through.

Sprinkle chopped parsley and serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.

Tip: For gluten-free meals, skip flour. If you want more thickness without flour, whisk in a cornstarch slurry at the end (1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water).

Tip: To prevent curdling, keep the sauce on low heat after adding sour cream and avoid a full boil.

Plate of sour cream and onion chicken with mashed potatoes
Weeknight dinner perfection!

Tips for Success

  • Keep the chicken pieces evenly sized for uniform cooking.
  • Stir sour cream in on low heat to prevent curdling; don’t boil after adding.
  • If you want a thicker sauce without flour, whisk in a cornstarch slurry at the end.
  • Taste and adjust salt before serving, especially if using low-sodium broth.
  • Finish with a light sprinkle of parsley for color.
  • Have mise en place: set out sour cream, broth, and parsley before you start.
  • Use a thermometer to check chicken; 165°F ensures safe, juicy results.

Equipment Needed

Here’s the essential toolkit I reach for when making Sour Cream and Onion Chicken. It keeps everything efficient and stress-free, especially on busy weeknights.

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Heatproof spatula or tongs
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Optional: whisk for silky sauce
  • Small saucepan for reheating leftovers

Variations

  • Dairy-free: Use coconut yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream substitute plus a splash of dairy-free milk to keep the sauce creamy in Sour Cream and Onion Chicken.
  • Gluten-free: Omit the flour or use a gluten-free thickening agent so the sauce stays silky without gluten.
  • Flavor twists: Add a pinch of thyme or chives for a different aromatic profile in Sour Cream and Onion Chicken.
  • Spice level: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild kick—adjust to your family’s tolerance.

Serving Suggestions

For Sour Cream and Onion Chicken, serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to create a cozy, comforting plate.

  • Green vegetables like steamed broccoli or green beans add crunch and color to Sour Cream and Onion Chicken.
  • A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon brightens the creamy sauce.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh finish on Sour Cream and Onion Chicken.

Sour Cream and Onion Chicken: Make-Ahead Tips and Leftovers

Make-ahead prep for Sour Cream and Onion Chicken

I like to season the chicken ahead of time.
It sits in the fridge, letting paprika and onion powder wake up the meat.
This makes weeknights easy.

I prep onions and garlic the night before.
Store them in airtight containers in the fridge.
This keeps busy nights moving fast.

You can freeze longer make-ahead by freezing the seasoned chicken in a freezer bag.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Sauce components can be prepped and refrigerated until ready.

Reheating and storing Sour Cream and Onion Chicken

Leftovers from Sour Cream and Onion Chicken store in an airtight container.
Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
Use within three days for best flavor.

To reheat, place a portion in a skillet with a splash of broth.
Heat gently over low, stirring often.
Do not boil to keep the sauce smooth.

If the sauce thickens or splits, whisk in a splash of broth or cream and lower the heat.
Reheat until steaming hot and enjoy.
It will taste just as comforting the next day.

Close-up of chicken covered in creamy onion sauce
A comfort classic, made easy!

FAQs

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in Sour Cream and Onion Chicken?

Yes. I often use Greek yogurt as a tangy stand-in. Use full-fat for creaminess and flavor. If it’s very thick, whisk in a splash of milk or broth. Keep heat low to prevent curdling.

Is Sour Cream and Onion Chicken gluten-free as written?

Yes, the dish is gluten-free as written. Omit the flour, or swap in a gluten-free thickener. The sauce stays smooth and creamy. If you want extra thickness, use a gluten-free option.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling in Sour Cream and Onion Chicken?

Warm the sauce gently and avoid boiling after adding sour cream. Stir on low heat. If it thickens too fast, whisk in a bit of broth. Let it rest off heat for a minute if needed.

Can I freeze this dish, and how would I reheat it?

Yes, you can freeze Sour Cream and Onion Chicken. Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately for best texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth over low heat, stirring often.

Final Thoughts

Sour Cream and Onion Chicken feels like a friendly hug after a long day.
As a busy cook, I love meals that come together without chaos.
This dish delivers flavor, speed, and easy clean-up in one skillet.

It’s tailor-made for caregivers and professionals who feed others first.
I can whip it up in 30 minutes and still have leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch.
Versatility is the secret: tweak the dairy, switch up sides, or adjust the heat for your family.

Treat this as a starting point, not a final verdict.
Adapt it for your family’s tastes and dietary needs, and watch smiles grow.
Most of all, enjoy the process and the comforting flavor of Sour Cream and Onion Chicken.

Print
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Sour cream and onion chicken in a skillet with creamy sauce

Sour Cream and Onion Chicken is a 30m Creamy Easy Delish.


  • Author: RoniWilliams
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Sour Cream and Onion Chicken is a creamy, quick weeknight dinner featuring tender chicken in a tangy onion-sour cream sauce.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ¾ cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder.
  2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until soft and golden, about 6–8 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to low and whisk in sour cream. (If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in 1 tablespoon flour before adding sour cream.)
  6. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.

Notes

  • You can skip flour for a gluten-free version; the sauce may be thinner.
  • Do not boil after adding sour cream to avoid curdling; keep heat low.
  • Leftovers refrigerate well for up to 3 days.
  • Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet, Stove-top
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 360 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg

Keywords: Sour Cream and Onion Chicken, creamy chicken, onion chicken, weeknight dinner, easy chicken recipe

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