This creamy herb chicken is the perfect dish for a quick and tasty dinner. With juicy chicken simmered in a rich and flavorful sauce, it’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Pair it with some rice or pasta, and you’ve got a meal that’s easy to whip up any night of the week. I love how simple it is—just cook, pour, and enjoy a cozy dinner! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless is the way to go for ease. If you’re looking to save calories, you could use chicken thighs. They are juicier and add a different flavor.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re watching your calories, you can substitute with half-and-half or even a plant-based cream for a lighter version.
Herbs: Dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley are perfect for this dish. If you’re fresh out, Italian seasoning can work in a pinch. I love adding extra fresh herbs at the end for a burst of flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds nutty flavor. You can switch it for Pecorino Romano or omit it completely for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but following these tips will help ensure it’s juicy and tender.
- Use a meat thermometer! Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t crowd the pan; give the chicken space to cook evenly.
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
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
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: chopped fresh herbs for garnish (parsley or thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy herb chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. So, you’ll have a tasty meal ready to serve in about 25 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper. This adds great flavor to your chicken.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it’s golden brown and cooked through—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes per side depending on how thick the chicken is. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Making the Sauce:
Now, lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. This will give your sauce a wonderful aroma!
4. Adding Liquid Ingredients:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds extra flavor to your sauce. Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, rosemary, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, creating a rich, creamy texture.
5. Finishing Touch:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning that delicious creamy herb sauce over them. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through and the flavors meld beautifully.
6. Serving:
Garnish your creamy herb chicken with fresh herbs if you like. Serve it hot alongside your favorite side dish, like rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your easy and delicious dinner!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great, you can also use chicken thighs, which are juicier and add more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you want a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream, like coconut cream or cashew cream, and skip the Parmesan cheese. You’ll still get a deliciously creamy sauce!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and make the sauce in advance. Store everything in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove until warmed through.
What Should I Serve with Creamy Herb Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, serve it alongside steamed veggies or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the sauce!
