Sour Cream and Onion Chicken
If you’re looking for a quick and comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table, you’ve come to the right place! My Sour Cream and Onion Chicken is one of those recipes that always brings back fond memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. The tender chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, creamy sauce that combines the classic flavors of sour cream and caramelized onions. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.
What I love most about this recipe is how it transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a dish that not only tastes amazing but also fills your home with a delightful aroma. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast.
- Family favorite: The creamy sauce and tender chicken are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters in your household.
- Versatile dish: Great for everyday meals or special occasions, this recipe adapts to any dining experience.
- Easy clean-up: With just one skillet needed, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
- Deliciously comforting: The combination of sour cream and caramelized onions creates a rich flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this delicious Sour Cream and Onion Chicken, you’ll need just a few simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a role in building lovely layers of flavor while keeping things straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and 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 sour cream (full-fat)
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, to taste)
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:
- Swap the protein: Try using turkey cutlets or even tofu for a lighter twist on the classic dish.
- Add some veggies: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to boost the nutrition and flavor.
- Change up the herbs: Experiment with fresh dill or thyme for a different herbal note in the sauce.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
How to Make Sour Cream and Onion Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting each chicken breast in half lengthwise. This will give you four thinner cutlets that cook more evenly. Sprinkle them with garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides. This seasoning enhances the chicken’s natural flavor and prepares it for pan-frying.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil along with one tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until hot. Add the seasoned chicken cutlets to the pan and cook them for about 5–6 minutes per side until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate while we work on that delicious sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
Turn down the heat slightly and add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with your sliced onion into the same skillet. Sauté for about 10–15 minutes until they become soft and lightly browned. This step is crucial as caramelizing onions releases their natural sweetness, adding depth to your sauce.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Once your onions are perfectly sautéed, stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Garlic adds an extra layer of flavor that complements our creamy sauce beautifully.
Step 5: Create Your Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce while scraping up any tasty brown bits stuck at the bottom of the pan—this is where tons of flavor lives! Then stir in sour cream until smooth, allowing it to heat through gently for about two minutes without letting it bubble vigorously; this prevents curdling.
Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Return your seared chicken back into the skillet, spooning that luscious sauce over each piece generously. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving immediately. If you’d like, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color!
Enjoy every bite of your homemade Sour Cream and Onion Chicken—it’s pure comfort food at its best!
Pro Tips for Making Sour Cream and Onion Chicken
Creating the perfect Sour Cream and Onion Chicken is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time!
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F, keeping it juicy and perfectly cooked without any guesswork.
- Let the onions caramelize: Taking the time to sauté the onions until they are golden brown enhances their sweetness, adding depth to your sauce and elevating the overall flavor of the dish.
- Choose full-fat sour cream: Using full-fat sour cream instead of low-fat or non-fat options provides a richer, creamier sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.
- Scrape up those brown bits: When you add broth to the skillet, be sure to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. These little morsels are packed with flavor and will make your sauce taste even better.
- Adjust seasonings at the end: Always taste your sauce before serving; adjusting seasonings at this stage allows you to achieve that perfect balance of flavors tailored to your preference.
How to Serve Sour Cream and Onion Chicken
Presenting Sour Cream and Onion Chicken can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some creative ways to serve this comforting dish.
Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce.
- Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to brighten their plates with a squeeze of citrus, enhancing the flavors of the dish.
Side Dishes
- Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a perfect base for soaking up that luscious sour cream and onion sauce.
- Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans add a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the chicken while adding a vibrant splash of color.
- Quinoa salad: A light, herby quinoa salad can bring a healthy balance to your meal, offering fiber and nutrients alongside those delightful flavors.
- Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies drizzled with olive oil make for an easy yet elegant accompaniment that brings both nutrition and color to your plate.
With these serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress family or friends with not only a delicious main course but also an attractive presentation! Enjoy digging into this comforting classic!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Sour Cream and Onion Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade meals throughout the week with minimal fuss.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
- Place leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to maintain creaminess.
- Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
FAQs
If you have questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place!
Can I make Sour Cream and Onion Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! This dish is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare it earlier in the day or even freeze it for later enjoyment.
What can I serve with Sour Cream and Onion Chicken?
This flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I ensure my Sour Cream and Onion Chicken doesn’t curdle?
To prevent curdling, gently heat the sour cream mixture without letting it boil. Stir continuously while mixing it into the sauce.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier substitute for sour cream while still providing that creamy texture you love.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find great joy in preparing this comforting Sour Cream and Onion Chicken. It’s a delightful way to bring home-cooked goodness to your table quickly! Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience. Happy cooking!
Sour Cream and Onion Chicken
Sour Cream and Onion Chicken is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table in just 30 minutes. Juicy chicken breasts are enveloped in a creamy, savory sauce made from sour cream and caramelized onions, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights. This recipe stands out for its simplicity and versatility, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and 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 cup sour cream (full-fat)
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F). Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat slightly, add the remaining butter, then sauté sliced onions for 10–15 minutes until soft and lightly browned.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan, then mix in sour cream until smooth. Heat gently for about two minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (200g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
