Delicious & Easy Creole Chicken in Green Chili Cream Sauce: A Flavorful Weeknight Dinner
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this incredible **Creole Chicken in Green Chili Cream Sauce**. This vibrant and aromatic stovetop dish promises a burst of rich, savory flavors with a creamy, subtly spicy finish. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s a versatile recipe that allows you to easily adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you crave a mild, comforting meal or a dish with a fiery kick, this recipe delivers both flavor and flexibility. It’s an attractive meal that will impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Creole cuisine is celebrated for its robust flavors and unique blend of influences, combining French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean culinary traditions. This chicken dish is a fantastic representation of that heritage, bringing together tender chicken breasts with a medley of fresh aromatics and the distinctive warmth of Creole seasoning, all enveloped in a lush green chili cream sauce. The result is a harmonious symphony of tastes that makes a memorable dinner, offering a taste of Louisiana right in your own kitchen.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. We understand that spice preferences vary greatly. If you prefer a milder profile, you can easily substitute diced tomatoes for green chilies, or simply reduce the amount of Creole seasoning by half. This ensures the dish remains flavorful without overwhelming heat. For those who love their Creole dishes “smokin’ hot,” feel free to add a generous pinch of cayenne pepper or double the green chilies for an intensified heat that truly ignites the palate. This flexibility ensures that everyone can enjoy this delicious meal exactly how they like it.
Why This Creole Chicken Recipe Is a Must-Try
Beyond its delicious taste, this Creole Chicken in Green Chili Cream Sauce offers several compelling reasons to make it your next go-to meal:
- Speed & Convenience: With a total preparation and cooking time of just 35 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying and hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Its stovetop nature means less cleanup and simpler cooking.
- Unmatched Flavor: The combination of tender, pan-seared chicken, aromatic vegetables, rich Creole seasoning, and a velvety green chili cream sauce creates an incredibly deep and satisfying flavor profile that is both complex and comforting.
- Customizable Heat Level: Whether you enjoy a gentle warmth or a fiery kick, this recipe can be easily adjusted to match your personal spice preference. This makes it perfect for households with diverse tastes.
- Accessible Ingredients: All components of this dish are readily available at most grocery stores, ensuring you won’t need to hunt for exotic items. Many can even be found in your pantry or freezer.
- Versatile Serving Options: While traditionally served over rice, this Creole chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, allowing for flexible meal planning and diverse culinary experiences.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Despite its sophisticated flavors, the adjustable spice and creamy texture make this dish a hit with both adults and children, offering a gourmet experience that caters to all palates.
- Efficient Prep: Utilizing pre-chopped or frozen onions and green peppers significantly cuts down on initial prep time, making your cooking process even smoother and faster.
Essential Ingredients for Creole Chicken Perfection
Crafting this flavorful Creole chicken dish relies on a few key ingredients, each playing a vital role in building the rich taste and texture of the meal. Understanding their contribution can help you make the most of the recipe and even inspire further culinary experimentation:
- Chicken Breasts (1.5 lbs., thawed): Thin-sliced chicken breasts are highly recommended for this recipe. Their reduced thickness ensures quicker and more even cooking on the stovetop, allowing them to brown beautifully and cook through simultaneously. If your chicken breasts are thicker, simply butterfly them or gently pound them to an even half-inch thickness. For a richer, juicier result, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used, though cooking times may need slight adjustment.
- Olive Oil (3 Tbsp., divided): This healthy fat is essential for both browning the chicken to perfection and sautéing the aromatic vegetables. A good quality olive oil imparts a subtle fruity note that complements the other flavors. If olive oil isn’t available, vegetable oil or canola oil can serve as suitable alternatives.
- Onion (½ cup, chopped) & Green Bell Pepper (½ cup, chopped): These two vegetables form the cornerstone of the dish’s aromatic base. They are part of what’s often referred to as the “Holy Trinity” in Creole and Cajun cooking (though celery completes the traditional trinity). When sautéed, they release sweet and savory notes that build a foundational layer of flavor. For ultimate convenience, especially on a busy evening, feel free to use pre-chopped onion and green pepper from your freezer; simply thaw them before heating in the saucepan.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 Tbsp.): The flour is a crucial thickening agent, transforming the liquids into a luscious, clingy cream sauce. It creates a roux with the olive oil, which is fundamental to many Creole sauces. Ensure you cook the flour for a minute to eliminate any raw flour taste.
- Creole Seasoning (2 tsp., like Tony Chachere’s): This is where the magic of Creole flavor truly shines! Brands like Tony Chachere’s offer a balanced blend of salt, various peppers (black, red), garlic, and other spices, providing that characteristic kick. The amount can be adjusted based on your desired spice level and the specific brand you use, as potency can vary. Start with the recommended amount and add more if you prefer.
- Chicken Bouillon Granules (1.5 tsp.): These granules serve as a concentrated flavor enhancer, intensifying the chicken essence within the sauce and adding a rich umami depth that beautifully complements the Creole spices. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken broth, reducing the amount of milk slightly to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
- Milk (1.5 cups, whole or 2%): The milk provides the creamy, smooth foundation for the sauce. Whole milk will yield the richest and most indulgent sauce texture, but 2% milk can also be used for a slightly lighter version. For an even more luxurious sauce, consider incorporating half-and-half or a splash of heavy cream for extra decadence.
- Diced Green Chilies (1-4 oz. can, undrained): These chilies are central to the “green chili cream sauce” profile, contributing a distinctive mild to medium heat and a subtle earthy flavor. Using canned diced chilies (undrained) is convenient and ensures consistent flavor. You can choose mild or medium varieties based on your preference. For an extra punch, consider hotter green chilies or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Fresh Lemon Juice (1 tsp.): A small but mighty ingredient, a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice is added at the end to brighten the entire dish. It provides a touch of acidity that cuts through the richness of the cream, enhancing and balancing all the flavors beautifully. Do not skip this step, as it elevates the dish significantly.
- Sour Cream (¼ cup, full-fat recommended): Incorporated at the very end of cooking, sour cream adds a wonderful tanginess and contributes to the silky, smooth texture of the cream sauce. Full-fat sour cream is highly recommended for the best flavor and a luscious mouthfeel, ensuring the sauce remains stable and rich.
Recipe: Creole Chicken in Green Chili Cream Sauce
Creole Chicken in Green Chili Cream Sauce
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Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs. chicken breasts, thawed and preferably thin-sliced or pounded to even thickness
- 3 Tbsp. olive oil, divided
- ½ cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp. Creole seasoning, such as Tony Chachere’s, adjust to taste
- 1-½ tsp. chicken bouillon granules
- 1-½ cups milk, whole or 2% for creaminess
- 1- 4 oz. can diced green chilies, undrained, mild or medium
- 1 tsp. fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup sour cream, full-fat recommended for best texture
Instructions
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Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken. Heat 2 Tbsp. of the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or fry pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sauté the chicken on each side until it is beautifully browned and has developed a nice crust, typically 3-4 minutes per side. Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This usually takes an additional 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and transfer it to a plate, tenting it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.
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Step 2: Sauté Aromatics. In a separate medium saucepan, or using the same skillet after wiping it clean (or if there’s still residual oil, adjust the amount for this step), heat the remaining 1 Tbsp. olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped green bell pepper and onion to the pan. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and translucent, typically taking about 5-7 minutes. If you’re using pre-cooked frozen onion and green pepper, simply thaw them beforehand and then heat them in the saucepan until warmed through and tender.
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Step 3: Build the Roux and Flavor Base. Sprinkle the 2 Tbsp. of all-purpose flour evenly over the softened pepper and onion mixture. Stir constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste and create a light roux, which will serve as the thickening agent for your sauce. Immediately after, add the Creole seasoning, chicken bouillon granules, and the entire can of diced green chilies (including the liquid). Continue to cook for an additional minute, stirring continuously to thoroughly combine all the spices and chilies with the roux. This step helps to bloom the flavors and create a rich base.
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Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce. Begin to gradually pour in the milk, adding a small amount at a time (about ¼ cup per addition) while stirring constantly with a whisk or spoon. This slow and steady addition is crucial for preventing lumps and ensuring a silky-smooth sauce. Continue stirring until the sauce begins to thicken to your desired consistency – it should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Once thickened, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and the sour cream. Continue to stir gently until the sour cream is fully melted and smoothly incorporated into the sauce, and the mixture is heated through. Be cautious not to boil the sauce once the sour cream has been added, as high heat can cause it to curdle. Keep the sauce warm over very low heat until your chicken is ready to be served.
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Step 5: Serve. Once the chicken is fully cooked and has rested briefly, you can either slice it into strips or serve the whole breasts, depending on your preference. Generously pour the luscious green chili cream sauce over the chicken. Serve immediately with your favorite complementary sides, such as fluffy white rice, for a truly satisfying and flavorful meal.
Notes & Tips
Creole chicken is famously delicious served over a bed of fluffy white rice, which perfectly soaks up the rich, creamy sauce. You can also opt for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative.
For an even richer sauce, substitute some or all of the milk with half-and-half or heavy cream. This will yield a more luxurious texture and flavor.
Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust seasonings as you go. Creole seasoning blends vary in saltiness and heat, so it’s always a good idea to fine-tune to your preference. Add more Creole seasoning or a dash of hot sauce if you desire more heat.
To make prep even quicker, you can chop your onion and green bell pepper in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
Nutrition per serving
The following nutritional information is an approximate estimate based on the ingredients listed and serves as a helpful guide for meal planning. Actual values may vary depending on specific product brands and preparation methods.
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Delicious Serving Suggestions
This Creole Chicken in Green Chili Cream Sauce is already packed with vibrant flavor, making it a star on its own. To complete your meal, pair it with simple, complementary sides that can absorb its wonderful sauce and balance its richness. Here are some fantastic suggestions:
- Fluffy White Rice: An absolute classic pairing, and for good reason! The neutral flavor and soft texture of white rice act as a perfect sponge for the rich and creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Brown rice or even cauliflower rice can also be used for a healthier or lower-carb alternative.
- Sautéed or Roasted Okra: A traditional Southern side that complements the Creole flavors beautifully. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness and reduces any sliminess.
- Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a refreshing vinaigrette dressing offers a delightful contrast to the richness of the chicken and sauce, adding a touch of freshness to your plate.
- Steamed Green Beans or Asparagus: Fresh, vibrant green vegetables provide a healthy and appealing addition to the plate, adding color and a gentle crunch. Season them simply with salt, pepper, and a touch of butter or olive oil.
- Crusty Bread: Don’t let a single drop of that delicious sauce go to waste! A loaf of crusty French bread or warm dinner rolls are excellent for dipping and soaking up every last bit.
- Sweet Corn: Whether it’s corn on the cob, creamed corn, or simple kernels, the natural sweetness of corn adds a lovely balance to the dish’s savory and spicy elements.
- Cornbread: A Southern staple, a piece of warm cornbread can be an excellent accompaniment, offering a slightly different texture and flavor profile that harmonizes with the Creole theme.
Tips for Success & Creative Recipe Variations
To ensure your Creole Chicken in Green Chili Cream Sauce turns out perfectly every time, and to inspire your culinary creativity, consider these expert tips and exciting variations:
Tips for the Best Results:
- Achieve Evenly Cooked Chicken: As noted in the recipe, using thin-sliced chicken breasts significantly reduces cooking time and ensures the chicken is tender and cooked evenly throughout. If your chicken breasts are thick, take an extra minute to slice them horizontally (butterflying) or pound them lightly between two pieces of plastic wrap to an even ½-inch thickness. This prevents drying out and promotes uniform cooking.
- Don’t Rush the Roux: When you sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, it’s crucial to cook it for at least 1 minute, stirring constantly. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and allows it to combine with the olive oil to create a proper roux, which is fundamental for a smooth, lump-free, and flavorful sauce.
- Gradual Milk Addition is Key: To avoid a lumpy sauce, always add the milk slowly, a little at a time (about ¼ cup per addition), and whisk or stir vigorously after each addition. This gradual incorporation allows the flour to absorb the liquid evenly, resulting in a consistently creamy and smooth sauce texture.
- Avoid Boiling After Sour Cream: Once you’ve added the sour cream and lemon juice to the sauce, keep the heat on very low and stir gently until everything is just heated through. High heat after adding dairy products like sour cream can cause them to curdle, altering the desirable silky texture of your beautiful sauce.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Creole seasoning blends can vary in their saltiness and spice level. Always taste your sauce before the final serve and adjust the seasoning (salt, black pepper, or more Creole seasoning) as needed. A small amount of hot sauce can also be stirred in at the end for an extra kick.
Creative Variations to Explore:
- Smokier Flavor Profile: For an additional layer of rich, smoky depth, add a pinch of smoked paprika along with the Creole seasoning. This enhances the traditional Southern flavors.
- Boost the Veggies: Enhance the vegetable profile by adding other diced aromatics. Consider incorporating diced celery (to complete the classic “Holy Trinity” with onion and bell pepper), red bell pepper for a sweeter note, or even sliced mushrooms during the initial sautéing of the onion and green pepper.
- Amp Up the Richness: For an even more decadent and luxurious sauce, replace some of the milk with half-and-half or heavy cream. Alternatively, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese at the end until it’s completely melted and incorporated.
- Seafood Lover’s Twist: This versatile cream sauce would also be absolutely fantastic with shrimp or firm white fish (like cod or snapper) instead of chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly; shrimp cooks very quickly.
- Milder Tomato-Based Option: If you or your family prefer a less spicy, more tomato-forward flavor, simply omit the diced green chilies. Instead, add a can of drained diced tomatoes along with the Creole seasoning for a different, yet equally delicious, profile.
- Extra Spicy Kick: For those who truly love the heat, take it up a notch! Incorporate a small amount of finely minced jalapeño or serrano pepper with the onions and bell peppers, or add a few extra dashes of your favorite Louisiana-style hot sauce (like Tabasco or Crystal) at the end.
- Herbacious Notes: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro as a garnish just before serving can add a fresh, aromatic finish.
Conclusion
This Creole Chicken in Green Chili Cream Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s a flavorful journey that brings the heart and soul of Creole cooking to your table with remarkable ease. Its comforting creaminess, aromatic blend of spices, and customizable heat make it an instant family favorite that you’ll be proud to serve.
With its quick preparation time and readily available ingredients, you’ll find yourself turning to this delightful recipe again and again, especially when you need a satisfying and impressive dinner in a hurry. Don’t hesitate to make this vibrant dish part of your regular meal rotation. Experiment with the spice levels, try different serving suggestions, and most importantly, savor the rich, satisfying flavors it offers. Happy cooking!
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