This Tender Chicken Delight is a comforting, flavorful dish that lives up to its name. Juicy chicken breast pieces are gently cooked until perfectly tender, then coated in a rich, savory sauce that pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or vegetables. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that works just as well for busy weeknights as it does for relaxed family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is easy to prepare with simple, everyday ingredients. The chicken stays moist and tender thanks to a gentle cooking method and a well-balanced sauce. It’s versatile enough to serve with many sides, and the flavors are mild yet comforting, making it a family-friendly option that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
600 g boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup cooking cream
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Directions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until lightly golden on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the butter and chopped onion. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring continuously for 1 minute. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add paprika, dried thyme, and dried oregano, and let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in the cooking cream, then return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes, making the total time around 35 minutes.
Variations
You can add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers when cooking the onion for extra texture and flavor. For a slightly spicy version, add 1/4 teaspoon of chili flakes to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter dish, replace the cooking cream with evaporated milk or a light cream alternative.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. It can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, boneless and skinless chicken thighs work very well and will result in an even juicier dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well and reheats nicely, making it a good option for meal prep.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can replace the butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free cream alternative.
What can I serve with Tender Chicken Delight?
It pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is possible, but the sauce texture may change slightly due to the cream.
How do I keep the chicken tender?
Avoid overcooking and simmer the chicken gently once it’s added back to the sauce.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach can be added during the simmering stage.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it’s mild, but you can add spice if you prefer more heat.
Can I cook this in advance for guests?
Yes, you can make it a few hours ahead and reheat gently before serving.
How do I thicken the sauce if needed?
Let it simmer a bit longer, or mix a small amount of flour with water and stir it in.
Conclusion
Tender Chicken Delight is a simple, comforting recipe that delivers great flavor without complicated steps. With its creamy sauce and juicy chicken, it’s a reliable dish you can turn to again and again for satisfying homemade meals.
Tender Chicken Delight is a creamy, savory dish made with bite-sized chicken breast pieces simmered in a flavorful, herb-infused sauce. It’s a comforting meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
600 g boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup cooking cream
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until lightly golden. Remove chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add chopped onion. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture, stirring for 1 minute. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps.
Add paprika, thyme, and oregano. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in the cooking cream, then return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Adjust seasoning if needed, and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Substitute chicken thighs for an even juicier result.
Add mushrooms or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.
Use chili flakes for a spicy variation.
Evaporated milk can replace cooking cream for a lighter version.
Let sauce simmer longer if you need to thicken it.
