If you're looking for a recipe that's tried, true, and guarantees satisfaction every time, this “Never Been Disappointed” chicken recipe is exactly what you need. Simple yet flavorful, it's become a household favorite for good reason. Whether you're preparing it for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or just a cozy night in, this dish will impress without fail
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This simple seasoning mix ensures the chicken is packed with flavor before it even touches the pan.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan—these are packed with flavor. Stir in the Dijon mustard and heavy cream, and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a little more paprika for extra warmth and color. Continue stirring the sauce until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to ensure each piece is coated evenly. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Serve
Once the chicken has simmered in the sauce, it's ready to serve. Spoon the chicken and its creamy sauce over a bed of cooked rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting, hearty meal. For a final touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley
Bonus Tips:
Make It Healthier: For a lighter version, swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt. This will reduce the calorie content while maintaining a creamy texture.
Versatile Pairing: This chicken pairs well with various sides, from steamed vegetables to a crisp green salad, or even roasted potatoes. You can switch up the side dishes to keep the meal feeling fresh each time.
Add Veggies: For a one-pan meal, toss in some chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers while the sauce simmers. The vegetables will cook in the sauce, absorbing all those delicious flavors.
Cheese Variations: While cheddar works wonderfully, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or even a blend of cheeses to add depth to the sauce.
Conclusion:
This “Never Been Disappointed” chicken recipe is aptly named—it’s the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor that consistently delivers. The rich, creamy sauce combined with tender, juicy chicken makes for a comforting meal that's both easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just need a reliable weeknight dinner, this dish will become one of your go-to favorites. Enjoy this delicious, fail-proof recipe, and you'll see why it's a winner every time!