This Creamy Herb Chicken is a quick dinner that’s full of flavor! Juicy chicken breasts simmer in a rich, creamy sauce made with fresh herbs that make every bite delightful.
Honestly, it’s so easy to whip up that I sometimes make it on busy weeknights. Pair it with rice or pasta, and you’ve got a tasty meal in no time!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are the stars here. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for extra flavor. They stay juicy and tender.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you want a lighter option, try half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor! You can substitute it with garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is the way to go for that killer taste.
Fresh Herbs: Using fresh parsley, thyme, and basil brings brightness. Dried herbs are fine too—use 1 teaspoon each if that’s what you have on hand.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do You Achieve That Perfectly Creamy Sauce?
Creating the creamy sauce is the heart of this recipe. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start by dissolving browned bits in broth. This adds flavor! Scrape the pan’s bottom while sautéing garlic.
- Add in heavy cream slowly and stir to prevent curdling. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens—this takes about 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate cheese for richness. Let it melt entirely before adding herbs—this makes the sauce even creamier.
Enjoy this process, and you’ll have a velvety sauce that’s perfect for drenching your chicken!
How to Make Creamy Herb Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll have a delicious creamy herb chicken ready in about 30-35 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Now, lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pan. These are loaded with flavor! Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Make It Creamy:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Mix in the Herbs and Butter:
Add the chopped herbs (parsley, thyme, and basil) along with the butter. Stir everything together until the butter is melted and well combined.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of that delicious sauce over them. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes to warm everything through and blend the flavors beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your creamy herb chicken hot, alongside your choice of sides, like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy this comforting and savory dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and stay moist during cooking. Just ensure they are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep that cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
What Should I Serve with Creamy Herb Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce. Steamed vegetables or a simple salad make great sides for a well-rounded meal!
