Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Skillet: A Flavorful One-Pan Delight 🍗🌶️
Looking for a quick yet indulgent dinner that bursts with bold flavors? This Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Skillet is your answer! Combining tender, golden-seared chicken breasts with the smoky, spicy kick of chorizo, all enveloped in a velvety cream sauce, this dish is a perfect harmony of comfort and sophistication. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen! 🤩
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This one-pan wonder is the epitome of cozy, flavorful dining. The chorizo infuses the dish with its rich, paprika-laden oils, while the creamy sauce, enhanced with a touch of mustard and garlic, ties everything together. Whether you’re a fan of hearty comfort food or crave a dish with a bit of flair, this recipe delivers. Plus, it’s versatile—pair it with fluffy rice, al dente pasta, or vibrant roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Here’s how to make it!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 4 boneless chicken breast fillets (or thighs for extra juiciness)
- 100g (3.5 oz) chorizo, thinly sliced (choose spicy or mild based on your preference)
- 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream (or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
- ½ cup (120ml) chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon mild Dijon mustard (optional, for a subtle tangy depth)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or extra-virgin olive oil for a lighter touch)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped, for garnish 🌿
- Optional add-ins: A pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for extra heat
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or sauté pan with a lid
- Tongs or spatula
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon for stirring
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is key to locking in flavor and achieving a golden crust.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter or olive oil. Once melted and shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside—it doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet, as it will finish in the sauce.
- Cook the Chorizo: In the same skillet, add the sliced chorizo. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chorizo releases its vibrant orange oils and becomes slightly crispy. These oils are packed with smoky, spicy flavor and will form the base of your sauce. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30-60 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Build the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all the flavorful browned bits (sucs) from the bottom. These bits are pure gold for flavor! Stir in the heavy cream and mustard (if using), and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The sauce will start to thicken slightly, creating a luscious texture. If you’d like a bit more spice, this is the time to add a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes.
- Simmer the Chicken: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to keep it moist. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). The sauce will meld with the chorizo’s bold flavors during this time, creating an irresistible coating for the chicken.
- Final Touches: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a splash of extra broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a couple of minutes to reduce. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate the chicken with a generous spoonful of the creamy chorizo sauce. Serve alongside your favorite sides—fluffy jasmine rice, buttery tagliatelle, mashed potatoes, or a medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or green beans. The sauce is so delicious, you’ll want to sop up every last drop!
Serving Suggestions
- With Starch: Pair with steamed rice, creamy polenta, or fresh pasta like pappardelle to soak up the rich sauce.
- With Veggies: A side of sautéed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad balances the dish’s richness.
- With Bread: Serve with crusty baguette or garlic bread to mop up the sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the creamy and spicy notes.
Tips for Success
- Chorizo Choice: Spanish chorizo (cured and smoky) works best for this recipe, but Mexican chorizo (fresh and crumbly) can be used if you crumble and cook it thoroughly first.
- Make It Lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. You can also use Greek yogurt for a tangier sauce, but add it off the heat to prevent curdling.
- Meal Prep: This dish reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze the cooked dish (without garnish) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Customize It: Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of this dish lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The chicken provides a lean, tender protein base, while the chorizo brings bold, smoky heat. The creamy sauce, enriched with garlic and a hint of mustard, ties everything together without overpowering the dish. Cooking everything in one skillet not only minimizes cleanup but also ensures that every bite is infused with layered flavors from the pan’s fond (those delicious browned bits).
A Dish for Every Occasion
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner, a date night at home, or a casual gathering with friends, this Creamy Chicken and Chorizo Skillet fits the bill. It’s simple enough for beginners but impressive enough to serve to guests. The vibrant colors—golden chicken, orange-tinged sauce, and green herbs—make it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- (Values vary based on ingredients and portion size)
