This Creamy Herb Chicken is a simple delight! Juicy chicken smothered in a rich herb sauce makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Just a few ingredients turn dinner into a treat!
I love how quick it is to whip up, plus it’s so good over rice or pasta. You can almost hear the chicken say, “Thank you for picking me!” 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep things simple and quick. If you’d like a bit of a change, chicken thighs can be a flavorful substitute. They stay juicy and tender as well!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce, but you can swap it for half-and-half or even coconut cream for a lighter version or dairy-free option. Just note that the texture might change a bit!
Broth: Chicken broth enhances the flavor; vegetable broth works if you prefer a vegetarian option. Homemade broth can really elevate the dish if you have some on hand!
Parmesan Cheese: For a cheesy twist, feel free to use Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. I find that freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes so much better!
How Do You Make the Sauce Creamy and Flavorful?
Making a creamy and flavorful sauce is a key part of this recipe. Here’s how to ensure it turns out perfect every time:
- Start by sautéing the garlic until it’s fragrant, but don’t let it burn. This adds a lovely depth of flavor!
- When you add the chicken broth, scrape up the browned bits from the pan. They contain tons of flavor that enhances the sauce.
- Let the cream and herbs simmer together briefly. This helps meld the flavors, making your sauce so much tastier!
- Don’t skip adding Parmesan – it thickens the sauce and adds a deliciously cheesy flavor.
Keep an eye on the texture; if it gets too thick, a splash more broth can help adjust it to your liking!
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 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but delicious enough to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This helps build flavor right from the beginning!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. When ready, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Base:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic to the leftover oil and delicious bits. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but be careful not to burn it!
4. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits are full of flavor and will make your sauce yummy!
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream along with the dried thyme, basil, parsley, and oregano. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. You’ll see it start to thicken slightly!
6. Cheese It Up!
Now, add in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, which should take about 3-4 minutes. It should be creamy and rich!
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, and spoon the luscious sauce over them. Let it simmer together for another 3 minutes so all those delicious flavors can meld.
8. Finish with Freshness:
Before serving, garnish your creamy herb chicken with freshly chopped parsley. It adds a beautiful pop of color and freshness!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy herb chicken hot with rice, pasta, or your favorite side vegetables. It’s a comforting meal that everyone will love!
Enjoy your delicious creamy herb chicken dinner! 🍽️
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken thighs or even bone-in chicken pieces. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly: thighs may need a little longer, and bone-in pieces will take more time to cook through. Always ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried?
Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs for dried ones! Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs (e.g., 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme instead of 1 teaspoon dried). Add fresh herbs towards the end of cooking for the best flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before sealing. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until it’s warmed throughout.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free cream (like coconut cream or cashew cream) and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Just note the sauce’s consistency may differ a bit!
