Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe for Easy Dinners

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish due to their quick cooking time. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier option or even tofu for a plant-based version.

Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the sauce its richness. If you want a lighter option, you could use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream, but this will change the flavor a bit.

Chicken Broth: Store-bought broth is handy, but homemade adds extra flavor. If you’re reducing sodium or need a vegetarian option, you can substitute with vegetable broth.

Herbs: Dried herbs work well here, but if you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to use them! Fresh thyme, parsley, and basil can elevate the flavor. Just double the amount if you’re substituting fresh for dried.

Parmesan Cheese: It adds a nice cheesy depth to the sauce. If you’re in a pinch, grated mozzarella can be used instead, but it won’t have the same sharp flavor.

How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy?

Cooking chicken can be tricky, but these tips will help you get it right every time.

• First, make sure to season the chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking. This enhances the flavor from the start!
• Use medium-high heat to sear the chicken for that nice golden crust—this locks in moisture. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing.

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 dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This is an important step! It adds flavor right from the beginning.

2. Sear the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through. When done, 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 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!

4. Make the Sauce:

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom. This adds great flavor to the sauce! Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, parsley, basil, onion powder, and grated Parmesan cheese. Bring this mix to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.

5. Combine and Heat:

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the flavorful creamy herb sauce over them. Let it cook for another 2 minutes so the chicken warms up nicely and absorbs some of that delicious sauce!

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Garnish your creamy herb chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely touch. Serve hot with your favorite sides like fluffy rice or steamed veggies. Enjoy your meal!

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will be juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of extra minutes to cook through—ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with canned coconut milk or any non-dairy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor, but you can skip it altogether if you prefer!

Can I Freeze Leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the creamy herb chicken! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop.

What Sides Pair Well With Creamy Herb Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce. Steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, also make a great fresh complement to the richness of the chicken.