This creamy herb chicken is perfect for a cozy dinner! Tender chicken gets a tasty boost from fresh herbs and a rich sauce that makes it irresistible.
Cooking this dish is a breeze! Just sauté the chicken, whip up the sauce, and dinner is served. I love pairing it with rice or veggies for a complete meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a bit more flavor since they are juicier.
Heavy Cream: This is key for making the sauce rich and creamy. If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut cream, but it may alter the flavor a little.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds wonderful flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder, but start with less since it’s stronger.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan gives a cheesy kick to the sauce. Grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast are good alternatives if you’re dairy-free.
How Do You Get That Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Getting a creamy sauce just right can be tricky, but here’s a simple way to do it:
- Start by sautéing your garlic in the skillet after cooking the chicken. This builds a great flavor base.
- When adding the chicken broth, make sure to scrape up those tasty brown bits; they add depth to your sauce.
- Let the heavy cream simmer gently. Avoid boiling it, which can separate the cream and lead to a grainy texture.
- Stir in the cheese until it melts completely, then let the sauce thicken before adding the chicken back in.
These tips should help you create a sauce that’s smooth and oh-so-delicious!
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 parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for preparation (seasoning chicken and chopping garlic) and about 20 minutes for cooking everything to perfection. It’s a quick and easy dinner that’s sure to please!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will ensure they’re flavorful all the way through!
2. Brown the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn—a little golden is perfect!
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan (that’s where all the flavor is!). Then, stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, parsley, and basil. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the Cheese:
Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
6. Combine and Simmer:
Now it’s time to return the chicken to the skillet! Place the cooked chicken breasts back in the sauce and spoon the creamy mixture over them. Let everything simmer together for another 3-5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a nice pop of color! Plate the chicken with some sauce drizzled over top, and enjoy your creamy herb chicken!
Delicious and easy, this creamy herb chicken is sure to impress. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer darker meat. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream. Nutritional yeast can be used instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you wish to freeze the dish, keep it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish. Simply sauté them after the garlic, before adding the broth, and proceed with the recipe as usual.
