This creamy herb chicken is a simple and tasty dinner option everyone will love. Juicy chicken breasts are cooked in a rich herb sauce that’s a delight for your taste buds!
I often serve it with rice or pasta to soak up that delicious sauce. It’s a quick meal, and let’s be real—everyone loves a bit of creaminess in their dinner! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here, but thighs work too if you prefer darker meat. They stay juicier in dishes like this!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you want to lighten it up, use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just be aware that this may change the thickness and overall flavor.
Herbs: Dried herbs provide great flavor, but fresh herbs are a lovely option if you have them! Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary can brighten the dish even more.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using real Parmesan for its sharp taste, but Pecorino Romano is a good substitute. Vegan cheese can work too if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting juicy chicken without drying it out can be tricky. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a meat thermometer! Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed for even cooking and browning.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute for a more tender bite.
Following these tips will help you achieve deliciously cooked chicken every time!
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 chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 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 or herbs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy herb chicken will take about 30 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step helps to build flavor from the beginning!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 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. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Allow the broth to simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. This adds depth to your sauce!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Next, add the heavy cream, dried thyme, rosemary, parsley, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce starts to thicken.
6. Add Butter (Optional):
If you want an extra creamy and rich sauce, stir in the butter until it melts and combines with the sauce. It gives a lovely shine and flavor!
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, and spoon the sauce over them. Let everything cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken and let the flavors meld.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley or herbs for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot with your favorite sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta. Enjoy your creamy herb chicken dinner!
FAQs about Creamy Herb Chicken
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, you can substitute chicken thighs or even drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a non-dairy cream alternative. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich, so consider adding a little extra Parmesan for flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a pan over low heat or microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, store them separately in the fridge, and combine them just before serving. Reheat the sauce gently and ensure the chicken is warmed through when serving.
