This creamy herb chicken is a cozy dish perfect for busy nights. It features tender chicken cooked in a luscious sauce made with fresh herbs and cream, making every bite feel like a warm hug!
I love how quick it is to whip up. Just sear the chicken, stir in the sauce, and let it simmer. You’ll have a yummy meal in no time. Serve it with rice or pasta, and watch everyone smile! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be juicier and add extra flavor. Just adjust cooking time as thighs take a bit longer to cook through.
Heavy Cream: The cream gives this dish its wonderful texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or a non-dairy milk combined with a bit of flour can work in a pinch. Just expect a slightly thinner sauce.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and basil add brightness. If you only have dried herbs, you can use about one-third of the amount. Fresh herbs are vibrant, but dried can be convenient!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a rich flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a dairy-free version) can also be delicious substitutes.
How Do You Make a Creamy Sauce Without It Breaking?
Making a creamy sauce can be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you can get it just right! The key is to control the heat and add ingredients in the right order.
- Start medium heat when adding garlic to avoid burning it.
- Always pour in the chicken broth first to deglaze the pan, scraping up those tasty bits.
- When you add heavy cream, keep the heat lower. If it’s too hot, the cream can separate.
- Stir constantly after adding the cheese until it’s melted. This ensures a smooth sauce.
Following these steps will help you achieve a beautiful, creamy sauce every time!
Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe
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 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy herb chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes to prep the ingredients, and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying dinner option that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This enhances the flavor of the chicken and is an essential first step!
2. Searing the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Adding Aromatics:
With the same skillet still over medium heat, add minced garlic to the pan. Sauté it for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Deglazing the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Use a spatula to gently scrape any browned bits stuck to the bottom—these add great flavor to the sauce!
5. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Next, stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Mix well until it’s combined and begins to bubble gently.
6. Adding Fresh Herbs and Cheese:
Now, toss in the chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, basil) along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the mixture until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens a bit.
7. Finishing the Sauce:
Add the tablespoon of butter to the sauce. Stir well until it’s melted and fully incorporated into the creamy mixture.
8. Combining Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy herb sauce over them. Let them simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chicken to warm through.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy herb chicken warm, garnishing with extra sauce. It pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or some delightful pasta. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Creamy Herb Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they are more tender and flavorful. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you need a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Nutritional yeast can also replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the sauce and cook the chicken, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before serving. The flavors may even develop more overnight!
What Should I Serve With Creamy Herb Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
