If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, creamy chicken breast recipes with cream of chicken soup are the perfect solution. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breast with a rich, velvety cream of chicken soup base, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings. The cream of chicken soup enhances the flavors and adds a luscious texture that brings the dish together in the best way possible.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless) – 4 pieces
- Cream of Chicken Soup – 1 can (10.5 ounces)
- Heavy Cream – 1/2 cup
- Butter – 2 tablespoons
- Garlic (minced) – 3 cloves
- Onion (chopped) – 1 medium
- Salt and Black Pepper – to taste
- Thyme (dried) – 1 teaspoon
- Parsley (chopped, for garnish) – 2 tablespoons
- Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon
- Chicken Broth – 1/2 cup
- Parmesan Cheese (optional) – 1/4 cup
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cups
- Tongs
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Time Needed to Prepare
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken (5 minutes)
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Make sure to rub the seasoning evenly on all sides.
2. Sear the Chicken (8 minutes)
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 4 minutes per side until they turn golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics (5 minutes)
In the same skillet, melt butter and add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce (5 minutes)
Add the cream of chicken soup, heavy cream, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Let the mixture cook for 2-3 minutes until it starts to bubble slightly.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce (7 minutes)
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Let them simmer in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.
6. Garnish and Serve (2 minutes)
Sprinkle parmesan cheese (if using) and chopped parsley over the chicken before serving. Serve hot with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Chicken Breast Recipes with Cream of Chicken Soup
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh garlic and onions can enhance the flavor of your creamy chicken dish significantly. Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley can also elevate the taste and provide a bright finishing touch.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
The key to a juicy creamy chicken breast is to avoid overcooking. Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), the chicken is ready to serve.
Enhance the Flavor with Additional Herbs
Feel free to add herbs like rosemary or basil to make the flavor more complex. These herbs pair well with the creaminess of the chicken soup base.
Variations of Creamy Chicken Breast Recipes
1. Creamy Chicken with Mushrooms
For a twist on this classic recipe, add sliced mushrooms when sautéing the onions. The mushrooms bring an earthy flavor that complements the cream of chicken soup beautifully.
2. Spinach Creamy Chicken
Add fresh spinach to the skillet during the final few minutes of cooking. The spinach wilts quickly and adds a healthy, colorful element to the creamy sauce.
3. Lemon Creamy Chicken
A splash of lemon juice added to the sauce can brighten up the flavors and cut through some of the richness, making it a perfect option if you prefer a slightly tangy dish.
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Breast
1. Mashed Potatoes
The rich sauce from the creamy chicken breast recipes with cream of chicken soup pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes. The smooth texture of mashed potatoes complements the creamy sauce, making each bite delightful.
2. Steamed Vegetables
Serve the creamy chicken with a side of steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans to balance the richness of the dish with some light, healthy vegetables.
3. Rice or Pasta
You can also serve this dish over white rice or buttered pasta. The grains absorb the creamy sauce well, making every bite rich and flavorful.
Common Questions About Creamy Chicken Breast Recipes with Cream of Chicken Soup
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are typically juicier and have a bit more flavor, which can work well with the creamy sauce. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How Do I Thicken the Sauce if It’s Too Runny?
If the sauce is too runny, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Storage and Reheating Tips
1. Storing Leftovers
Store leftover creamy chicken breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld well, and the dish can taste even better the next day.
2. Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce as it warms up. Heat until the chicken is warmed through.
Can I Freeze Creamy Chicken Breast Recipes with Cream of Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow the creamy chicken to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove.
FAQs
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you prefer to make your own cream of chicken soup, combine butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk to make a homemade version. This allows you to control the salt content and avoid preservatives found in canned soup.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes, you can bake this dish. Sear the chicken breasts first, then place them in a baking dish. Pour the cream of chicken soup mixture over the top and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Certainly! Vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or zucchini can be added to make this a one-pot meal. Simply add them to the skillet during the sautéing stage.
Creamy Chicken Breast Recipes with Cream of Chicken Soup for Busy Weeknights
One of the best things about creamy chicken breast recipes with cream of chicken soup is that they are quick and easy, making them perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal preparation and a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
How to Make It More Kid-Friendly
If you have picky eaters at home, consider adding some grated cheese to the sauce or even stirring in some cooked pasta to make it more familiar. Kids usually love creamy and cheesy dishes, and this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate their preferences.
Serving Creamy Chicken Breast for Special Occasions
Though simple, this dish can also be served for special occasions by adding extra touches like truffle oil, wild mushrooms, or a side of roasted vegetables. It’s a comforting, elegant dish that’s suitable for both casual dinners and more formal gatherings.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken and provides a good amount of calcium from the cream. To make it lighter, consider using low-fat cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, and serve it with a side of steamed vegetables.
How to Make the Dish Dairy-Free
To make this recipe dairy-free, use a dairy-free cream substitute and dairy-free butter. Many stores carry coconut or almond-based cream alternatives that work well in this dish.
Add Your Twist to Creamy Chicken Breast Recipes with Cream of Chicken Soup
This recipe is highly versatile, and you can adjust it to suit your tastes. Whether you add spices like cayenne pepper for heat, or mix in some shredded cheese for extra richness, the base of cream of chicken soup makes for a comforting, easy-to-customize meal.