Turkish Chicken with Creamy White Sauce Recipe | Mediterranean Comfort Food
Tender Turkish-style chicken paired with a luscious creamy white sauce—this recipe is rich, savory, and full of Mediterranean flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or when you want a cozy yet elegant meal.
Equipment
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Sharp knife
- Optional: clay pot for authentic cooking
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900 g) chicken thighs or breasts (boneless preferred)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 cup plain yogurt (full-fat or Greek)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- Optional: chili flakes for spice
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken and marinate for 30 minutes.
- Pan-Sear: Heat skillet, sear chicken until golden on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same pan, sauté garlic. Lower heat, whisk in yogurt and cream. Add herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Return chicken to pan, coat with sauce, and simmer gently for 10–15 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley or dill. Pair with rice pilaf, bulgur, or flatbread.
Notes
- Use thighs for juiciness; breasts for leaner option.
- Keep heat low when adding yogurt/cream to prevent curdling.
- Marinating is key for flavor depth.
- Clay pot cooking adds authentic Turkish flair.
- Variations: add mushrooms, spinach, or saffron for color and flavor.