This Easy Creamy Herb Chicken is all about comforting flavors! Juicy chicken is smothered in a rich, creamy sauce made with fresh herbs. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
I love serving it with rice or pasta to soak up that delicious sauce. Trust me, you’ll find yourself going back for more—just make sure to save some for dinner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re in a pinch, chicken thighs can also work and will add extra flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream. Just keep in mind that the sauce might be a bit less rich.
Herbs: Dried herbs are fine, but fresh herbs bring a brighter taste. If you’re out of rosemary or thyme, you can mix it up with Italian seasoning or even a bit of dill for a twist!
Parmesan Cheese: For that cheesy goodness, Parmesan is classic. Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can work well if you’re looking for something similar, but don’t use pre-grated cheese if you can avoid it; fresh grating makes a big difference!
How Can You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken just right is essential. You want it golden brown on the outside and juicy on the inside. Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps create that nice brown crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook them in batches if necessary. Too many pieces at once can steam the chicken instead of searing it.
- Use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
With these tips and ingredients in mind, you’ll create a delicious creamy herb chicken that will impress everyone at the table! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Easy 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 dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Creamy Herb Chicken will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you need something tasty in a hurry!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. This simple step adds important flavor to your chicken!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is heated, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Now pour in the chicken broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This adds great flavor to your sauce!
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, until it starts to thicken slightly. Keep stirring occasionally for an even consistency.
6. Add Cheese and Butter:
Now it’s time to make that sauce extra delicious! Add the grated Parmesan cheese and butter, stirring continuously until both are melted and the sauce is nice and smooth.
7. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through.
8. Serve It Up:
Finally, garnish with fresh parsley if you like! Serve your Easy Creamy Herb Chicken hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your meal!
You’ll love this creamy, herb-infused chicken dish—it’s quick and easy while being full of flavor!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Herb Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and tenderness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce might be less rich, so consider adding a teaspoon of flour to thicken it or using a small amount of cream cheese for creaminess.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy as you warm it up.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Adding vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms can enhance the dish even more. Just sauté the veggies in the skillet before adding the garlic, and then follow the recipe as usual!
