If you are craving a dinner that feels both comforting and a little bit fancy, this Creamy Herb Chicken with Basmati Rice Recipe will quickly become your new go-to. Imagine tender, golden chicken breasts swimming in a luscious, herb-infused cream sauce, perfectly paired with fluffy, fragrant basmati rice that soaks up every bit of that deliciousness. It’s the kind of meal that makes weeknights feel special without demanding hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing guests, this dish balances simple ingredients with incredible flavor for a truly satisfying experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Herb Chicken with Basmati Rice Recipe shines because it uses straightforward ingredients that work harmoniously together. Each element brings in something unique, from rich creaminess to vibrant herbal notes and that comforting, fluffy texture in the rice. Grab what you need and let’s get cooking!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a silky base to brown the chicken perfectly without sticking.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, tender and juicy once cooked right.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the chicken beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a subtle kick and balances the creaminess.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxuriously creamy sauce that hugs the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon mixed dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, oregano): Brings a fragrant and earthy aroma to every bite.
- 2 cups basmati rice: Known for its delicate, fluffy grains, a perfect canvas for the sauce.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Adds flavor depth to the rice and keeps it tender.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory finish that elevates the dish.
How to Make Creamy Herb Chicken with Basmati Rice Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken Breasts
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season each chicken breast generously with salt and pepper. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken and cook until each side has a gorgeous golden crust, about 6 to 8 minutes per side. This step locks in moisture and layers in flavor, setting up your dish for success.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Herb Sauce
Once the chicken is out of the skillet, keep that flavorful base and pour in the heavy cream along with the mixed dried herbs. Stir gently to combine the herbs evenly in the cream. This sauce will soon become the lovely blanket that brings everything together.
Step 3: Simmer the Chicken in Sauce
Return the browned chicken breasts to the skillet. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let them cook in the cream sauce for about 15 minutes. This slow cooking allows the chicken to absorb the herbaceous creaminess while the sauce thickens into a silky consistency that’s perfect to spoon over the rice.
Step 4: Cook the Basmati Rice
While the chicken simmers, rinse your basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear—this washes away excess starch for a fluffier texture. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a separate pot, add the rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook gently for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has soaked up all the savory broth.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Plate the perfectly cooked basmati rice, then nestle the creamy herb chicken on top. Don’t forget that final flourish of grated Parmesan cheese—it adds a rich, savory touch that makes every forkful unforgettable. Your Creamy Herb Chicken with Basmati Rice Recipe is ready to be devoured!
How to Serve Creamy Herb Chicken with Basmati Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives brighten up the look and add a fresh burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a light drizzle of olive oil can also add extra richness and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
A crisp, simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted seasonal vegetables, or steamed green beans brings a fresh counterpoint to the creaminess and rounds out this meal. Light and colorful sides balance the richness and keep things vibrant on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken and rice layered in a shallow bowl or arrange the rice in a neat mound topped with peppered chicken slices fanned out around the plate. You could also stuff the chicken breasts with herbs and cheese before cooking for a surprise inside that delights every guest!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This Creamy Herb Chicken with Basmati Rice Recipe holds up well and tastes great when reheated gently.
Freezing
To freeze, place cooled chicken and rice in freezer-safe containers separately. Freeze for up to 2 months. This helps maintain the best texture for both the chicken and the rice.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. This brings back that luscious creaminess and keeps the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano can be more aromatic and vibrant. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried for a similar flavor impact.
Is it okay to use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work well here and can actually add extra juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through and tender.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese or omit the Parmesan. The flavors will shift slightly but still be delicious.
What can I do if I don’t have basmati rice?
You can use jasmine rice or even long-grain white rice as a substitute. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly and the texture will be a bit different.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the juices run clear. Cooking in the cream sauce helps keep it moist while ensuring it’s tender throughout.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Herb Chicken with Basmati Rice Recipe is a true winner for anyone wanting a nourishing, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s approachable for cooks of all skill levels and always impresses with its rich yet balanced taste. Give it a try soon, and prepare to fall in love with a new family favorite!
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Creamy Herb Chicken with Basmati Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Western
Description
This Creamy Herb Chicken Basmati Rice recipe features tender, golden-brown chicken breasts simmered in a rich and flavorful herb-infused cream sauce, served over fluffy, perfectly cooked basmati rice and topped with savory Parmesan cheese. It’s a comforting, elegant one-hour meal ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon mixed dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Rice
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Prepare and Sear Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper thoroughly. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for approximately 6-8 minutes on each side or until they turn a golden brown color.
- Make Creamy Herb Sauce: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside temporarily. In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and add the mixed dried herbs. Stir the mixture well to incorporate the herbs and deglaze the pan, scraping any browned bits from the bottom.
- Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Return the chicken breasts back to the skillet with the cream sauce. Reduce the heat to low and cover or allow to simmer gently for about 15 minutes. This step allows the chicken to finish cooking through and the sauce to thicken and absorb the herb flavors.
- Cook Basmati Rice: While the chicken simmers, rinse the basmati rice under cold water repeatedly until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a separate pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, cover with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth.
- Serve: Once the chicken and sauce are ready and the rice is cooked, plate the rice first and place the creamy herb chicken breasts on top. Garnish each serving with the grated Parmesan cheese for a rich finishing touch.
Notes
- For best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded.
- If dried herbs are not available, you can substitute fresh herbs, but use about three times the amount.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken during the searing step to keep it juicy and tender.
- Rinsing basmati rice removes extra starch to prevent the rice from becoming gummy.
- You can adjust seasoning after simmering by adding more salt or pepper to taste.
