This Easy Creamy Herb Chicken is all about comfort and flavor! Tender chicken is cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with fresh herbs that make it oh-so-tasty.
I love how quick this dish is to whip up on busy nights. Serve it over rice or pasta, and you’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, who can resist that luscious sauce? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make for quick cooking and tenderness. If you prefer, you can swap them for chicken thighs, which are juicier.
Heavy Cream: This gives a rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut milk can be nice alternatives, though the flavor will be different.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add amazing flavor. If you don’t have fresh thyme, parsley, or basil, you can use their dried counterparts. Remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use less!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth to the sauce. If you like, try Pecorino Romano for a bolder taste, or a dairy-free alternative if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken to the right doneness is key for a great meal. Here are some tips:
- Always season your chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking; it helps boost flavor.
- Cook chicken on medium-high heat to get that golden brown crust, which adds flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps it juicy!
Easy Creamy Herb Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, thyme, or basil)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the chicken, then about 15 minutes making the creamy herb sauce and bringing all the flavors together. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, making sure to cover both sides well. This enhances the flavors right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, gently place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook them until they are golden brown on both sides and cooked through, which will take about 5-7 minutes on each side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant—this step infuses the oil with a wonderful garlic flavor!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. This will add lots of flavor to your sauce!
5. Add Cream and Herbs:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, your choice of dried or fresh herbs, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes, so it thickens nicely.
6. Add Butter (Optional):
If you want a richer sauce, stir in the butter now. It adds a delightful creaminess and shine to the sauce.
7. Return the Chicken:
Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet and spoon some of that yummy sauce over the top. Cook it all together for an additional 2 minutes to heat the chicken through and let the flavors meld.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh chopped herbs for a lovely presentation. Serve your creamy herb chicken warm, ideally over your favorite rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitution as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk. Keep in mind that the flavor and richness will vary slightly, but both options will work well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or seitan and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The cooking instructions remain mostly the same for these alternatives!
