This Creamy Herb Chicken is a simple and tasty dish that everyone will love! Tender chicken is cooked in a rich, creamy sauce made with fresh herbs and spices.
I enjoy this recipe because it pairs perfectly with rice or pasta, soaking up all that yummy sauce. It’s an easy dinner that feels special but takes little time—perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they cook quickly. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too. They’re juicier and have more flavor!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like coconut cream. Just remember that the flavor will adjust slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a wonderful savory flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano could be a good alternative. Nutritional yeast is a great cheese substitute for a vegan option.
Dried Herbs: Dried thyme, basil, and parsley are excellent for flavor. If you have fresh herbs on hand, use them! Fresh herbs have a brighter taste. Just use three times as much since they’re less concentrated.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll master it! Here’s how to ensure juicy, tender chicken:
- Start with even thickness: If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Use medium-high heat: This helps achieve a nice golden crust without overcooking the inside.
- Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Let it rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices in!
How to Make Creamy Herb Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend a few minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking the chicken, plus a bit of time simmering the creamy sauce. It’s a quick and simple way to enjoy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This adds flavor and prepares them for cooking!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Depending on the thickness, make sure to check that they’re fully cooked—reach for that meat thermometer (it should read 165°F or 75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This will create a delightful aroma in your kitchen!
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any yummy browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds even more flavor! Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, dried basil, and dried parsley. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens!
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. You want it nice and creamy!
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the creamy sauce over them, and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through. If you want, garnish with fresh herbs for a nice touch.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your creamy herb chicken hot with your favorite sides, like rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. Enjoy this deliciously easy meal!
FAQ About Creamy Herb Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to fully thaw it first! Thawing overnight in the fridge is best, or you can place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker defrost. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid extra moisture.
How Can I Store Leftover Creamy Herb Chicken?
Leftovers can be stored 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 for even heating and to prevent the sauce from separating.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Just adjust the seasoning to taste.
What Sides Pair Well with Creamy Herb Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! For a classic option, serve it over pasta or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. You can also enjoy it with a refreshing salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a hearty meal.
