This Creamy Herb Chicken is a simple and tasty dish perfect for dinner. Juicy chicken cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with fresh herbs makes every bite a treat!
It’s hard to beat how quick and easy this meal is to whip up after a long day. Just cook the chicken, pour in the sauce, and dinner is ready in no time! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook quickly and remain juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets work well too! For more flavor, you can use bone-in chicken thighs.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich, creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter version, try using half-and-half or a mix of Greek yogurt and chicken broth for a healthier twist.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds wonderful flavor. If fresh garlic isn’t available, garlic powder can be a quick substitute—use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove of garlic.
Herbs: Dried herbs are convenient, but fresh herbs take the dish up a notch. You can swap dried herbs for fresh ones at a ratio of 3:1. So, use 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs instead of 1 teaspoon of dried.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty, nutty flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative, or you can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
How Do You Make the Chicken Tender and Juicy?
The key to cooking juicy chicken breasts is to avoid overcooking them. Here are some helpful tips:
- Use a meat thermometer: Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Pound the chicken to an even thickness: This helps them cook uniformly and prevents drying out.
- Rest the chicken: Let it sit for a few minutes after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender bite.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken every time! Enjoy the creamy herb sauce drizzled over it for a tempting dinner option.
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 heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy herb chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts well with salt and pepper on both sides. This helps to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook until they are golden brown and no longer pink in the center, about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the breasts. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it. Next, pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan; this adds wonderful flavor. Allow the broth to reduce for about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Cream and Herbs:
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, basil, parsley, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together and let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the delicious sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish the dish with fresh herbs if you like, and serve hot. This creamy herb chicken goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy your delicious dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking! You can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick method by sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about 1-2 hours.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use a mixture of Greek yogurt and chicken broth. Just mix equal parts of each until you get a creamy consistency!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce into the sauce mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to your heat preference!
