This creamy herb chicken is a simple yet delicious dinner that you’ll love! Juicy chicken pieces are cooked in a rich herb sauce, making each bite comforting and tasty.
I like to serve this with rice or pasta to soak up all that yummy sauce. It’s perfect for a busy evening when you want something quick but still feel fancy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for a quick cook. If you’re looking for alternatives, try using chicken thighs for extra flavor. They’re juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked.
Herbs: Fresh herbs really elevate the dish, but if you only have dried, they work well too. For a twist, you might use basil or oregano instead of thyme and rosemary. Each herb brings a unique taste!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich texture. If you’re looking for lighter options, you can substitute with half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk, though it may be less creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth, but if you’re out, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a dairy-free option) can work in a pinch.
How Do I Cook Chicken Breasts for Juicy Perfection?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky! Here are some tips to help you achieve juicy results:
- Start with chicken at room temperature; it’s less likely to dry out.
- Heat the skillet before adding the chicken. A hot pan gives that nice, golden exterior.
- Don’t crowd the pan. If you have more chicken, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This keeps the juices from running out when you cut into it.
Following these tips will help you get tender and flavorful chicken for your creamy herb dish!
How to Make 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 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy herb chicken will take about 30 minutes in total: 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying dish you can whip up for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This adds flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are 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:
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. This adds a wonderful flavor to the sauce.
4. Add the Herbs:
Add the dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
5. Pour in the Chicken Broth:
Next, add the chicken broth to the skillet. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan; this is where a lot of flavors come from! Let the broth simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
6. Mix in the Cream:
Lower the heat to medium, and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Dijon mustard (if you’re using it). Let the sauce simmer until it thickens a bit, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of that delicious sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through and coated with the sauce.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your creamy herb chicken with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving. Enjoy it hot alongside your favorite sides, whether it be rice, mashed potatoes, or some lovely steamed veggies!
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful herb chicken dinner!
FAQ for Creamy Herb Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or by using the cold water method. Cooking from frozen is not recommended as it can lead to uneven cooking.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be less creamy, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid curdling.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much during storage.
What Are Good Side Dishes for This Chicken?
This creamy herb chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up the sauce. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also make great accompaniments!
