Chicken Fillet in Spicy, Creamy Sauce
Chicken Fillet in Spicy, Creamy Sauce features tender chicken fillets simmered in a luscious, perfectly balanced sauce that combines spicy heat and smooth creaminess. This quick and versatile dish is ideal for busy weeknights, offering bold flavors, a customizable spice level, and a comforting meal that pairs beautifully with various sides.
- Author: Kaeli
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Protein
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken fillets (breasts or thighs)
Aromatics & Spices
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1–2 tsp chili flakes or 1 fresh chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for dairy-free option)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for serving)
- Prepare the Chicken Fillets: Pat the chicken fillets dry and season them lightly with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add more oil or butter if needed. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring frequently. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes, building the flavor base.
- Create the Spicy Sauce Base: Add chili flakes or fresh chili to the aromatics and stir for 30 seconds to release the spicy oils. Stir in tomato paste until well combined, forming a rich, tangy foundation.
- Pour in the Cream and Simmer: Slowly add heavy cream or chosen alternative while stirring continuously. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it thicken, about 5 minutes, blending the spicy and creamy elements.
- Return Chicken and Finish Cooking: Place the cooked chicken fillets back into the skillet and coat them with the sauce. Simmer together for 2-3 minutes to soak up flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Notes
- Use room temperature chicken for even cooking and juiciness.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; sear chicken in batches if necessary to maintain a good crust.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to adjust consistency.
- For brighter heat, use fresh chili peppers instead of dried flakes.
- Allow the sauce to reduce properly to intensify flavors and improve texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken fillet with sauce
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: chicken fillet, spicy creamy sauce, quick chicken recipe, gluten free, high protein, dinner, easy cooking