Is Creamed Chicken Over Biscuits the Ultimate Comfort Food?

Have you ever wondered why creamed chicken over biscuits remains a cherished comfort food for many families across America? The statistics say it all: a significant 74% of people associate comfort foods with nostalgic meals made by loved ones. This classic dish of tender chicken in a savory creamy sauce over flaky biscuits combines hearty flavors and textures that evoke warmth and satisfaction. With this recipe, you can easily recreate that beloved experience in your kitchen, satisfying your taste buds while bringing a sense of nostalgia to your dining table.

Ingredients List

Chicken (2 cups, cooked and shredded)
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick option or poach your own for a fresher taste. Chicken adds lean protein and moisture to this dish.
Butter (4 tablespoons)
Unsalted butter provides the rich, creamy base needed for the sauce. You can replace it with olive oil if you’re looking for a healthier fat option.
All-purpose flour (1/3 cup)
This is your thickening agent, giving the creamed chicken filling a luscious texture. Whole wheat flour can be a healthier substitute, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
Milk (2 cups)
Whole milk will yield a creamier sauce, whereas skim or almond milk can be used for a lighter option without sacrificing much flavor.
Chicken broth (1 cup)
Low-sodium broth prevents the dish from becoming too salty while adding depth to the flavors. Vegetable broth can be a great vegetarian alternative.
Onion (1 medium, diced)
This vegetable adds a wonderful aromatic flavor. You can swap it for shallots for a milder taste.
Celery (1-2 stalks, diced)
The crunch of celery adds texture and freshness. For a different flavor profile, use diced bell peppers instead.
Carrots (1 medium, diced)
Carrots provide sweetness and vibrant color. Sweet potatoes are a hearty alternative that will add a different flavor dimension.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Fresh garlic enhances the overall savoriness of the dish. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
Black pepper (1 teaspoon)
Freshly ground pepper adds that necessary zing. You can use white pepper if you prefer a milder flavor.
Biscuits (4-5, homemade or store-bought)
Flaky, buttery biscuits form the bedrock of this dish. Consider using whole wheat or gluten-free biscuits for a healthier option.

Timing

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

With these times, you can have a homemade comfort meal ready quicker than a takeout order.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by cooking and shredding your chicken if not using rotisserie. Dice your onion, celery, carrots, and mince the garlic. Having all ingredients ready makes the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and whisk to combine. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the flour to absorb the butter and create a roux, which adds flavor and thickness to the sauce.

Step 4: Add Liquid

Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens to a gravy-like consistency, roughly 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Chicken and Seasoning

Stir in the cooked chicken, black pepper, and any additional seasonings you like. Allow everything to simmer gently for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 6: Prepare Biscuits

If you are using store-bought biscuits, follow the package instructions for baking them. If you’re making homemade biscuits, have them ready to serve piping hot.

Step 7: Assemble the Dish

Spoon generous portions of the creamed chicken over the warm biscuits. Ensure each biscuit is topped with enough sauce to soak in the flavors.

Nutritional Value / Health Benefits

Protein (30g per serving)
Essential for muscle repair and growth, protein ensures your body functions efficiently throughout the day.
Calcium (250mg per serving)
Provided mainly from the milk and biscuits, calcium is vital for strong bones and teeth.
Vitamins A & C (varies per serving)
Found in vegetables like carrots and celery, these vitamins enhance immunity and support skin health.
Healthy Fats (10g per serving)
Sourced from butter, healthy fats help in the absorption of vitamins and maintain cellular functions.
Fiber (2g per serving)
Present in the biscuits and vegetables, fiber promotes good digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

Healthier Alternatives

Low-fat milk instead of whole milk
Reduces calorie count but maintains reasonable creaminess.
Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream
Adds a tangy flavor and boosts protein content while cutting down on fats.
Zucchini or spinach instead of carrots
Zucchini adds moisture and lowers sugars, while spinach packs extra nutrients.
Using whole grain or oat biscuits
Increases fiber content, making a healthier biscuit with nuttier flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with steamed green beans or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a burst of color and flavor.
For different flavor profiles, serve with a spicy pepper sauce or hot sauce on the side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not letting the roux cook long enough
This can result in a raw flour taste while not thickening the sauce adequately.
Overcooking the chicken
If you reheat shredded chicken, it can become dry; gently warm it in the sauce instead.
Not seasoning adequately
Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can lead to blandness. Always taste and adjust before serving.

Storing Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for best flavor and safety.
To freeze, allow the dish to cool. Place portions in freezer-safe containers for up to a month. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid a rubbery texture.

Conclusion

Creamed chicken over biscuits is not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug that evokes comfort and nostalgia. Its creamy sauce and flaky biscuits are bound to become a family favorite. We encourage you to try this recipe, share your experience in the comments, or subscribe for more delightful recipes and updates.

FAQs

A: Q: Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?: A: Absolutely! Leftover turkey works wonderfully and offers a similar texture and flavor.
B: Q: How do I make this dish vegetarian?: A: Replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth while keeping the rest of the ingredients the same.
C: Q: Can I prepare this in advance?: A: Yes! You can make the creamed chicken a day ahead and reheat it when ready to serve over freshly baked biscuits.

Creamed Chicken Over Biscuits

Author: lilie
Total Time: 45
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

A classic dish of tender chicken in a savory creamy sauce over flaky biscuits, perfect for a comforting meal.

Instructions

Prepare Your Ingredients: Cook and shred the chicken if not using rotisserie. Dice the onion, celery, carrots, and mince the garlic.
Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and whisk to combine. Cook for about 2 minutes.
Add Liquid: Gradually pour in the milk and chicken broth, whisking continuously. Stir until the mixture thickens.
Incorporate Chicken and Seasoning: Stir in the cooked chicken and black pepper, allowing it to simmer gently.
Prepare Biscuits: Follow package instructions for store-bought biscuits or prepare homemade biscuits.
Assemble the Dish: Spoon the creamed chicken over the warm biscuits.

Notes

Consider pairing with steamed green beans or a light salad. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.

Prep Time: 20
Cook Time: 25
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: creamed chicken, comfort food, biscuits, family recipe, savory dish