Sliced Chicken in a Butter Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish that’s simple to make yet packed with savory goodness. The chicken breasts are seared to perfection and smothered in a creamy butter sauce with garlic, thyme, and Parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Served with a side of your favorite vegetables or pasta, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until browned on both sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth, butter, garlic, and dried thyme. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, and coat it in the creamy butter sauce. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Add vegetables: You can add mushrooms, spinach, or peas to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
- Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
- Lemon twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for a refreshing citrusy kick.
- Herb variations: Swap thyme for rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.
10 FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- Yes, chicken thighs will work just as well and provide a bit more juiciness and flavor.
- Can I make the sauce without heavy cream?
- You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk, although the consistency may differ.
- What can I serve this dish with?
- This dish pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of roasted vegetables.
- How can I make the sauce thicker?
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer it a little longer to reduce it or add an extra tablespoon of Parmesan cheese to thicken it.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and reheat them together before serving.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
- What kind of chicken broth should I use?
- You can use regular chicken broth or low-sodium broth, depending on your preference for saltiness.
- Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?
- Yes, you can use fresh thyme. Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme to replace the dried thyme.
- Can I add more garlic to the sauce?
- Absolutely! If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more minced garlic for an extra burst of flavor.
- Is this recipe spicy?
- No, this recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Conclusion
This Sliced Chicken in a Butter Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s quick and easy to make. The rich sauce adds depth to the tender chicken, making it a perfect option for dinner any day of the week. With simple ingredients and the ability to customize the sauce to your liking, it’s a versatile recipe that will please everyone at the table. Enjoy this creamy, buttery delight with your favorite side for a complete and satisfying meal.
PrintSliced Chicken in a Butter Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
This rich and creamy Sliced Chicken in a Butter Sauce is a perfect dinner option with tender chicken breasts cooked in a buttery, garlicky sauce with a hint of thyme, finished with Parmesan for added flavor. Serve with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth, butter, garlic, and thyme. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook until the sauce has thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Serve this dish with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
- For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes