Zesty, creamy, and utterly comforting, this chicken breast and cream of chicken soup recipe is your ticket to a hearty meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Perfect for those busy weeknights or when you’re craving something cozy without the fuss.
Why This Recipe Works
- It combines the lean protein of chicken breasts with the rich, creamy texture of cream of chicken soup for a balanced dish.
- The recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous variations to suit any palate.
- It’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
- Perfect for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully for lunches throughout the week.
- The use of simple, pantry-staple ingredients makes it accessible for cooks of all levels.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), cubed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken
Start by cubing your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This ensures every piece is flavorful from the inside out. Heat the olive oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then add the chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides but not fully cooked through.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Base
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Let the mixture simmer for about 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 3: Add the Heavy Cream
Stir in the heavy cream to enrich the sauce, making it luxuriously creamy. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. If you’re using cheese, now’s the time to sprinkle it on top and let it melt into the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 4: Final Touches
Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. The sauce should be creamy and coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thick, a splash of chicken broth can loosen it up. Too thin? Let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your creamy chicken over a bed of rice, pasta, or with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy, and dig in!
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, try browning the chicken in butter instead of olive oil. If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked chicken can speed up the process—just add it to the sauce to warm through. To make this dish gluten-free, ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free or make your own. For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less thick. Don’t skip the step of scraping the browned bits from the pan; they’re packed with flavor that’ll take your dish to the next level.
Recipe Variations
- Add mushrooms and spinach for a veggie-packed version.
- Swap the chicken breasts for thighs for a richer taste.
- Stir in cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist.
- Use cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for some heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the chicken as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours. It’s a great set-it-and-forget-it option for busy days.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Summary
This creamy chicken breast and cream of chicken soup recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a comforting dish that’s sure to please.
