This creamy herb chicken is a tasty dinner idea that comes together quickly. Juicy chicken is cooked in a smooth sauce made with fresh herbs, making it super comforting!
When I make this dish, the aroma fills the kitchen and everyone comes running! It’s perfect over rice or pasta, and I love how it’s ready in no time. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts makes for quick cooking and tender results. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a delicious alternative with richer flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cornstarch for thickness.
Herbs: Dried herbs bring great flavor. If you have fresh herbs, use them instead! Fresh parsley, basil, or thyme will enhance the dish even further. Just remember to use about three times the amount of fresh compared to dried.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty kick. Grated cheese is easy to work with, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or omit it altogether for a dairy-free version, adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor instead.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
The sauce is essential in this dish and takes just a bit of care to get right. Here’s how you can nail it:
- After cooking the chicken, don’t clean the skillet. The browned bits add depth to your sauce.
- When adding the garlic, be sure not to burn it. Just sauté until fragrant; it usually takes only a minute.
- Simmer the sauce gently after you add the cream to allow it to thicken up nicely without scorching.
- Adjust the seasoning before serving! Taste and add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
With these tips, your creamy herb chicken will be velvety smooth and full of flavor!
Creamy Herb Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (optional: parsley, thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30 minutes. You’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This will give your chicken great flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook them until they are golden brown on both sides and cooked through. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Now, in the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic, sauté this for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic! Then pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to add flavor to your sauce.
4. Create the Creamy Mixture:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, oregano, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to gently simmer for around 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will create that delicious, creamy texture!
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over the top. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and meld all the flavors together.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your creamy herb chicken with fresh herbs if you like, and serve it hot over rice, pasta, or alongside steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious dinner!
This easy creamy herb chicken makes a delightful and comforting meal with minimal prep and maximum flavor! Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
FAQ for Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking results. Thaw chicken overnight in the fridge or place sealed chicken in cold water to speed up the process.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch (2 tablespoons of cornstarch dissolved in 1 cup of milk). Just note that it may result in a slightly less creamy sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy herb chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the skillet after sautéing the garlic. Cook them until tender before adding the broth and cream for added flavor and nutrition!
