This Creamy Herb Chicken is a winner for busy nights! It’s tender chicken smothered in a rich, tasty sauce made with herbs and cream that everyone will love.
I enjoy making this dish because it comes together quickly, and the smell of herbs fills the kitchen. Pair it with rice or pasta for a complete meal—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here, but you can swap them for thighs if you prefer dark meat. Thighs add more flavor and stay juicy!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. You can use half-and-half for a lighter option, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Herbs: Dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley are great, but feel free to mix things up! Fresh herbs work well too. If you have Italian seasoning, it can replace the dried herbs easily.
Parmesan Cheese: You’ll get great flavor from grated Parmesan. For a substitute, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Just bear in mind the taste will vary.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken breasts just right can be tricky. Here are some tips to ensure they stay juicy:
- Start with chicken at room temperature to ensure even cooking.
- Cook on medium-high heat until golden brown—this adds flavor!
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This keeps the juices inside!
These simple steps will help you make a delicious Creamy Herb Chicken 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
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter, for extra richness
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes for a delicious homemade dinner that’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor right from the start.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring it to scrape up any delicious brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds great flavor to your sauce!
5. Add Cream and Herbs:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and add the dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens a bit.
6. Combine with Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and, if you like, the butter for a richer flavor. Keep stirring until everything is melted and smooth.
7. Finish the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the creamy herb sauce over them, and let them cook together for another 2-3 minutes so everything warms through.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a splash of color. Enjoy your Creamy Herb Chicken with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables!
And there you have it—a delicious, creamy dinner that’s sure to impress. Enjoy!
FAQ for Creamy Herb Chicken
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for this recipe, you can also use thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time, as dark meat usually takes a bit longer.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich and creamy, but it will still taste delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! You can add your favorite vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes while making the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the broth!
