This Creamy Herb Chicken is a simple and tasty dinner that your family will love! It’s made with juicy chicken, fresh herbs, and a creamy sauce that ties everything together.
To be honest, I can’t resist spooning that creamy goodness over some rice or pasta. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 😋 You’ll love how quick it is to whip up—perfect for any busy night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for this dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider chicken thighs instead, which can be juicier.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk like coconut cream. Just keep in mind the flavor will differ a bit.
Herbs: Dried herbs work well, but using fresh herbs elevates the taste. If you’re out of thyme or basil, Italian seasoning can be a good all-in-one substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: While optional, it adds a nice cheesy flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can give a similar cheesy essence.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your chicken just right can be tricky. Follow these tips to ensure it’s cooked through and juicy:
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C)
- Sear the chicken in hot oil for that golden brown color, then reduce the heat for cooking through without burning.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it moist before you slice into it.
With these insights, you’ll have a delicious and successful Creamy Herb Chicken dinner that the whole family will enjoy!
Creamy Herb Chicken Easy Dinner Recipe
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 heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, thyme, or basil)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy herb chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook, giving you a total of approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will give the chicken a nice flavor right from the beginning.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Now, reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell that delicious garlic fragrance. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and give the skillet a good scrape to loosen any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Then, stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, parsley, basil, onion powder, and Parmesan cheese if you’re using it. Let this creamy mixture simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the luscious sauce over each piece. Allow everything to cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to let those flavors mingle and warm up the chicken.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your dish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and added flavor. Enjoy your creamy herb chicken warm over rice, pasta, or with some steamed veggies for a comforting dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more moisture and a richer flavor to the dish. Just ensure they are cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cornstarch to thicken. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to the sauce when reheating to freshen it up.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine when you’re ready to serve, as this will help retain the chicken’s texture and flavor.
