This creamy herb chicken is a comforting dish that’s quick to whip up on busy evenings. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, herby sauce that’s simply irresistible!
Honestly, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate. I love serving it with rice or pasta to soak up all that yummy sauce. Who can resist a little extra creaminess? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe because they cook evenly and stay tender. If you prefer dark meat, thigh fillets work well too. For a lighter option, you can use turkey breasts.
Heavy Cream: This provides that rich, creamy texture. If you want to cut down on calories, try using half-and-half or a non-dairy substitute like coconut cream, but it might change the flavor slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work. Generally, one teaspoon of garlic powder is equal to one clove.
Herbs: Dried herbs are convenient, but fresh herbs bring an amazing aroma and flavor. Use fresh thyme and parsley if you can. If you’re out of dried basil, you can swap it for oregano or Italian seasoning.
Parmesan Cheese: For a cheesy depth, Parmesan is great! If you’re looking for a substitute, consider Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Keeping chicken juicy is all about cooking it properly. Here are some tips to help you achieve that:
- Don’t overcook the chicken! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps the juices redistribute, making the meat more tender.
- Cover the skillet while simmering the chicken in the sauce. This keeps moisture in and helps the flavors meld nicely.
Enjoy these tips, and you’ll have delicious, juicy chicken every time!
How to Make Creamy Herb Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy herb chicken recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making it ready in about 35 minutes total. Perfect for a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This adds a nice flavor to the meat.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Afterward, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant (but not burned!). This adds an amazing flavor to your sauce.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet. As you add it, use a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—this is where a lot of flavor comes from!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, dried basil, dried parsley (or fresh if using), and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens a little. Don’t forget to stir occasionally!
6. Add the Butter:
Once the sauce has thickened, add the butter and stir until it’s melted and combined into the sauce. This gives the sauce a rich, creamy finish.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the creamy herb sauce over them. Let it all simmer together for another 2-3 minutes so the chicken warms back up and absorbs some delicious flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh herbs if you’d like, and serve your creamy herb chicken hot over rice, pasta, or with your favorite steamed vegetables. Enjoy your lovely dinner!
This recipe is not just easy, it’s also full of flavors that will delight your family and friends! Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed plastic bag and immerse it in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch for thickening. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or almond milk can work, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy herb chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid drying out the chicken.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce. Simply sauté them after cooking the garlic before adding the chicken broth. This adds flavor and color to your dish!
