Ingredients for Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces: The star protein for this Unforgettable Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce. Ensures tender, juicy bites every time. Slice uniformly for even cooking.
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Essential for sautéing the chicken and aromatics. Adds a lovely, mild fruity note. Use a good quality brand for best flavor.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Forms the rich base of our creamy white sauce. Provides essential flavor and helps create a smooth roux. Use unsalted for better salt control.
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced: A foundational aromatic that builds a sweet, savory base for the sauce. Dice finely so it melts into the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Indispensable aromatic for depth and pungency. Freshly minced garlic truly elevates the Mediterranean flavors in this dish.
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour: The key to thickening our luxurious creamy white sauce. Creates a smooth, lump-free roux when cooked with butter.
• 1.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Provides the liquid base for the sauce, infusing it with savory chicken flavor. Low-sodium allows you to control the seasoning.
• 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to an irresistibly rich and velvety Turkish creamy white sauce. It adds incredible body and decadent texture.
• 1 tsp fine sea salt, or to taste: An essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors in the dish. Adjust to your preference for perfect balance.
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and peppery kick. Freshly ground makes a significant difference in aroma and taste.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb, providing an earthy, aromatic foundation. It’s truly comforting and authentic to Turkish flavors.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Lends a beautiful color and a subtle, smoky depth to the sauce. It complements the Turkish flavors perfectly.
• 1/2 fresh lemon, juiced: Brightens the entire dish with a zesty, fresh tang. A squeeze at the end truly lifts and balances the richness.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds vibrant color and a burst of herbaceous freshness as a garnish. Essential for that finishing touch and aroma.

How to Make Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce

Sear Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and sear for 5-7 minutes until lightly golden brown. Set aside, leaving flavorful bits in the pan for the creamy white sauce base.

Sauté Aromatics:

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Make Roux:

Sprinkle flour over the softened onions and garlic. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a light roux. This forms the essential base for your rich and creamy Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce.

Whisk Sauce:

Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.

Finish Dish:

Return the seared chicken to the creamy white sauce. Stir in salt, pepper, oregano, smoked paprika, and fresh lemon juice. Simmer for 5 minutes until chicken is heated through and flavors meld beautifully for this Turkish Chicken.

Garnish & Serve:

Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in fresh chopped parsley. Serve your Unforgettable Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce immediately over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread for a truly comforting easy dinner.

How to Store Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce

To store leftover Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It stays fresh for 3-4 days. Don’t leave it out too long after dinner; I’ve had to toss perfectly good leftovers because of this! Discard immediately if you notice any off smells or sliminess.

For make-ahead convenience, you can sear the chicken and prepare the sauce base (up to step 4) 1-2 days in advance. Refrigerate components separately in airtight containers. Combine and finish the dish just before serving for the best fresh taste.

Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore its creamy texture.

What to Serve with Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce

Simply serve this Unforgettable Turkish Chicken hot. For a special touch, garnish with extra fresh parsley and a lemon wedge. It’s perfect alongside fluffy basmati rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of that creamy white sauce. A crisp white wine would pair wonderfully, allowing you to truly enjoy this comforting dish.

I personally love to serve this Turkish Chicken over a bed of al dente linguine. The pasta perfectly catches the rich, creamy sauce, making each bite incredibly satisfying. It’s an easy way to enjoy a complete, comforting dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute milk for heavy cream in this Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce recipe?

No, I strongly advise against it for the Unforgettable Turkish Chicken. Heavy cream is crucial for the rich, velvety texture. Using milk will result in a much thinner, less satisfying sauce, a mistake I’ve learned from. Stick with heavy cream for the best results.

→ How do I prevent a lumpy or thin sauce when making this Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce?

To prevent a lumpy sauce, cook the flour and butter roux for the full 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Then, whisk in the liquids gradually until smooth. I’ve had lumpy sauces too; proper whisking makes all the difference for this recipe.

→ Can I make Unforgettable Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce gluten-free?

Yes, you absolutely can! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch when making the roux. Whisk well to avoid lumps. I’ve tried it, and the sauce still thickens beautifully for a gluten-free version.

→ How long does leftover Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce stay fresh in the fridge?

Leftover Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce stays fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Always refrigerate it promptly after dinner. I’ve had to toss good leftovers when left out too long, so don’t risk it!

→ Can I freeze this Unforgettable Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce for later?

Freezing isn’t ideal for creamy sauces, as they can separate and become grainy upon reheating. While edible, the texture won’t be as luxurious. For best results, I recommend making it fresh or preparing the components ahead and combining just before serving.