Creamy Pan Fried Chicken

There is nothing quite like tender pan fried chicken smothered in creamy gravy for the ultimate comfort food fix. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights but feels special enough for Sunday supper. You will build deep flavor in just one skillet and create a rich sauce that is every bit as satisfying as a classic Southern gravy.

I first tried this recipe on a rainy Monday looking for a soul warming dinner and now it is a household favorite I make on repeat whenever we need some real comfort

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: Choose plump boneless breasts and butterfly to help them cook more evenly
• Salt pepper garlic powder: These build layers of flavor be generous with seasonings for tastier results
• All purpose flour: Use for dredging to ensure a crisp golden crust plus for thickening the sauce later Try to use fresh flour for best texture
• Butter: Adds richness and a touch of sweetness opt for unsalted to control saltiness
• Olive oil: Helps prevent butter from burning during frying pick an everyday mild olive oil
• Minced garlic: Fresh garlic offers a savory boost chop fine to avoid any raw garlic taste
• Chicken broth: Use low sodium for better control over salt look for clear golden broth
• Heavy whipping cream: This is key for silky gravy go for the freshest cream with no off smells
• Smoked paprika garlic powder onion powder: These spices add warmth savoriness and a little smoky depth good paprika makes it extra special

Step by Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them open horizontally leaving one edge attached so they open like a book Pat dry and season both sides liberally with salt pepper and garlic powder This ensures every bite is well seasoned

Dredge in Flour Mixture:

In a wide shallow dish stir together the flour a sprinkle of salt pepper and garlic powder Press each piece of chicken into the flour shaking off extras You want a light even coating for the crispiest crust

Pan Fry the Chicken:

Heat your skillet over medium heat then add butter and olive oil Wait until the butter foams and looks slightly golden Place the chicken in being careful not to crowd the pan Cook about four to five minutes on each side turning once until both sides are deep golden brown and the internal temp is at least one hundred sixty five degrees Remove to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm

Make the Gravy:

In the same skillet add more minced garlic stir quickly so it does not burn Sprinkle in flour and keep stirring so the garlic and flour form a golden paste that smells nutty

Build the Sauce:

Pour in chicken broth in a slow steady stream whisking to dissolve all the browned bits Scrape the pan bottom for maximum flavor Gradually add heavy cream stirring until the sauce is fully smooth Bring to a simmer

Season and Finish:

Add the rest of the salt pepper smoked paprika garlic powder and onion powder Taste and adjust if more seasoning is needed Keep stirring until the gravy thickens to your liking It should coat the back of a spoon smoothly

Serve:

Return the chicken to the skillet just long enough to warm through Ladle gravy over each piece and serve with your favorite sides

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When I make this my kids always ask for extra sauce I love seeing the family gather around the table for a dish that feels both hearty and homemade The smoked paprika is my secret weapon adding a hint of depth to the creamy gravy that everyone always asks about

Storage Tips

Store leftover chicken and sauce together in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days

Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to keep the sauce silky and prevent drying out

This dish does not freeze well because the sauce may separate but it is so good there are rarely leftovers

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of heavy cream you can use half and half with a pat of extra butter

For a lighter meal try skinless boneless chicken thighs

Broth can be homemade or store bought but homemade adds a special touch

Serving Suggestions

This chicken is magnificent over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up all that gravy

A side of green vegetables like steamed green beans or sautéed spinach balances the richness

Biscuits or crusty bread are great for mopping every bit of sauce from the plate

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Recipe FAQs

→ How do you keep chicken breasts juicy when pan-frying?

Butterflying the chicken ensures even cooking, and quickly pan-frying on medium heat helps seal in moisture for tender results.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well. They may require a slightly longer cook time, but will stay moist and flavorful.

→ What sides pair well with creamy pan-fried chicken?

Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad complement the rich sauce beautifully.

→ How do you get the coating crispy?

Thoroughly dredge chicken in the seasoned flour, and ensure your oil and butter are hot before adding the chicken to the skillet.

→ Can the creamy gravy be made ahead?

You can prepare the gravy ahead and refrigerate. Gently reheat and whisk before serving for a smooth finish.