If you’re searching for a dish that’s comfort food at its finest but also dinner-party worthy, let me introduce you to Sour Cream and Onion Chicken. Imagine juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich tangy sauce, infused with the classic flavors of creamy sour cream, savory onion soup mix, and a shower of Parmesan cheese—all bubbling together until golden and completely irresistible. This is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles and second helpings, thanks to its dreamy flavor and weeknight-friendly simplicity.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Sour Cream and Onion Chicken lies in its straightforward list of ingredients. Each one brings something important—whether it’s juiciness, savory punch, or that oh-so-creamy texture—to make this dish unforgettable and easy to pull together.
- Chicken Breasts: Go for boneless, skinless cuts for quick cooking and tender results every time.
- Salt: Simple seasoning lets all the bold, creamy flavors shine through.
- Black Pepper: Adds gentle warmth to balance the richness of the sauce.
- Garlic Powder: Delivers subtle depth without overpowering the signature onion flavor.
- Sour Cream: The star of the show, guaranteeing a lusciously creamy coating that keeps the chicken moist.
- Dry Onion Soup Mix: Brings instant onion flavor and savory notes—no chopping required.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty, salty complexity and helps the topping develop that irresistible golden crust.
- Olive Oil: Ensures a beautiful, golden sear on the outside of your chicken before it hits the oven.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle of parsley offers fresh color and a little burst of herbal brightness at the end.
How to Make Sour Cream and Onion Chicken
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a baking dish so nothing sticks. Season each chicken breast on both sides with salt, pepper, and a generous dusting of garlic powder. This simple step sets up a flavorful foundation and ensures every bite gets a little of that cozy, garlicky goodness.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Topping
In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, dry onion soup mix, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth—this will become your secret weapon for ultra-flavorful, creamy, slightly tangy chicken. That kick from the onion soup mix is what transforms the dish into Sour Cream and Onion Chicken magic.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts, searing each side for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking them through at this stage—they’ll finish in the oven. This step locks in juiciness and delivers a golden crust that’s honestly hard to resist.
Step 4: Bake with the Sour Cream and Onion Topping
Transfer the seared chicken breasts to your prepared baking dish. Spoon the sour cream and onion mixture over each piece, spreading it out to cover the chicken completely. Slide the dish into the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is bubbling and golden. The kitchen will smell amazing—promise.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top, if you like a pop of green. Serve your Sour Cream and Onion Chicken hot and watch it quickly disappear from everyone’s plates, creamy topping and all.
How to Serve Sour Cream and Onion Chicken
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley adds brightness and a little visual lift to your Sour Cream and Onion Chicken. If you want to get creative, a scattering of thinly sliced green onions also brings even more onion flavor, while crispy fried onions deliver crunch and a fun finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This dish practically begs to be spooned next to buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice, soaking up every bit of that luscious sauce. Roasted vegetables—like broccoli, carrots, or green beans—make for a colorful, healthy pairing. If you’re a bread lover, thick slices of crusty bread are perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce that gathers at the bottom of the baking dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For family dinners, serve the chicken straight from the baking dish, homestyle. If you’re feeling fancy, plate each chicken breast atop a swirl of mashed potatoes and drizzle extra sauce over the top. Hosting a party? Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces, skewer each with a toothpick, and serve as creamy, savory appetizer bites to wow your crowd with a new take on Sour Cream and Onion Chicken.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Sour Cream and Onion Chicken cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to three days without losing flavor or creaminess.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this dish! Place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the saucy texture and juicy chicken.
Reheating
For the best experience, reheat leftover Sour Cream and Onion Chicken in a covered baking dish at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through. This gentle reheating keeps the sauce from separating and restores the chicken’s tenderness. A quick microwave zap works if you’re in a hurry, just be careful not to overcook and dry out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are deliciously juicy and work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as they might need a few extra minutes in the oven to cook through completely.
What’s the best way to tell if the chicken is done?
The most foolproof method is to use a meat thermometer—you’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The sauce should be bubbling, and the chicken will look creamy and irresistibly golden on top.
Can I make Sour Cream and Onion Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chicken with the topping up to one day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve—easy peasy!
Is there a lower-fat version of this dish?
To lighten things up, swap in light sour cream and use less Parmesan cheese. The chicken will still be moist and flavorful, though the sauce may be a little less creamy.
What if I don’t have onion soup mix?
If you’re out of onion soup mix, mix in dried minced onion, onion powder, and a dash of beef bouillon powder as a quick substitute—homemade flavor in a pinch!
Final Thoughts
If you’re in need of a dinner that combines comfort, flavor, and ease, this Sour Cream and Onion Chicken will fast become your new go-to. With a creamy topping that transforms plain chicken into something unmistakably crave-worthy, it’s a winner for busy weeknights or special family gatherings alike. Give it a try soon—you just might find yourself making it on repeat!
Print
Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Sour Cream and Onion Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts coated with a savory mixture of sour cream, onion soup mix, and Parmesan cheese, baked to perfection. A deliciously creamy and flavorful dish that’s easy to make!
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Sour Cream & Onion Mixture:
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ packet dry onion soup mix
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Others:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
- Prepare the sour cream mixture: In a small bowl, mix the sour cream, onion soup mix, and Parmesan cheese until combined.
- Sear the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden, then transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Add the sour cream mixture: Spread the sour cream and onion mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the topping is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving if desired.
Notes
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
- Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier option.
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