This Creamy Herb Chicken is a tasty and quick meal perfect for busy nights. Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich, creamy sauce filled with yummy herbs that make every bite delightful!
I love how easy it is to whip up this dish. Just sear the chicken, add the sauce, and simmer. Dinner is ready in no time! Plus, it pairs so well with rice or pasta — you’ll be coming back for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a quick-cooking option. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may need a bit longer.
Heavy Cream: This adds a rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce will be less thick and creamy.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary are key for flavor. Fresh herbs are even better! You can swap dried herbs with fresh ones at a 3:1 ratio. Fresh parsley makes a lovely garnish too!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy taste to the dish. If you don’t have Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but keeping it juicy is all about the right technique. Here are some tips:
- Don’t Crowded the Pan: Make sure there’s space between chicken pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and brown nicely.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This helps prevent overcooking.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it tender.
- Deglaze the Pan: Scraping up brown bits after removing the chicken adds extra flavor to your sauce.
By following these steps and tips, your Creamy Herb Chicken will be delicious every time!
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 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Creamy Herb Chicken recipe will take about 25 minutes total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that you can enjoy on busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This adds a wonderful aroma to your sauce!
4. Prepare the Creamy Mixture:
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Next, add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Mix everything well.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens. You want it creamy but not too thick, so keep an eye on it!
6. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like. Serve your Creamy Herb Chicken hot, with sides like rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy your delicious and creamy chicken dinner!
FAQ for Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or reduced-fat cream. Keep in mind the sauce will be less thick and creamy, but still delicious!
What Should I Serve with Creamy Herb Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over rice, pasta, or alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A simple side salad also complements it nicely.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a splash of milk or cream can help refresh the sauce as you reheat!
