Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice dish is the perfect combination of comfort and elegance. Juicy, pan-seared chicken is coated in a rich, herb-infused cream sauce, served over fragrant basmati rice. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Plus, it’s highly customizable with your favorite herbs and vegetables.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts or thighs
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic (minced)
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley
Fresh thyme
Fresh basil (optional)
Basmati rice
Water or chicken broth for rice

Directions

1. Cook the Basmati Rice

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
In a pot, bring water or chicken broth to a boil.
Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

2. Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Herb Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
Add Italian seasoning, fresh parsley, thyme, and basil.
Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
Let it simmer for a few more minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve the creamy herb chicken over warm basmati rice and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Variations

Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and nutritional yeast for Parmesan.
Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Lemon Herb Chicken: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and zest for a fresh citrusy flavor.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze chicken and sauce separately from rice for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of broth to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Let the sauce simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, jasmine rice or brown rice work well, but cooking times may vary.

What herbs work best in this dish?

Parsley, thyme, and basil are excellent choices, but rosemary and oregano can also be used.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and reheat before serving.

What side dishes pair well with this meal?

Steamed vegetables, roasted asparagus, or a simple green salad complement this dish beautifully.

Can I make this dish without dairy?

Yes, use coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative for the sauce.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer and removing the chicken when it reaches 165°F (75°C).

Can I add cheese to the rice?

Yes, mixing in Parmesan or cheddar adds extra flavor to the rice.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the chicken?

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to keep the chicken moist.

Conclusion

This Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is a rich, comforting dish packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. With a creamy, herb-infused sauce and fluffy rice, it’s an easy yet elegant meal that the whole family will love. Try it today and enjoy a homemade restaurant-quality dinner!

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