This Creamy Herb Chicken is perfect for quick dinners! With tender chicken cooked in a rich, creamy sauce and mixed with fresh herbs, it’s both tasty and easy to make.
I love how this dish makes me feel like a chef in my own kitchen. Serve it over rice or pasta, and watch everyone come back for seconds! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are ideal as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs instead for more flavor and tenderness.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich texture, but if you’re watching your calories, you can substitute with half-and-half or even a lighter cream. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be less thick.
Garlic: I always use fresh garlic for the best flavor, but you could use garlic powder in a pinch—about 1/4 teaspoon per clove. Just add it towards the end of cooking to prevent it from burning.
Herbs: I like using dried herbs for convenience, but fresh herbs add a wonderful touch! If you have fresh on hand, use about three times more—so 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs instead of 1 teaspoon dried.
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional but adds a nice depth to the sauce. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can offer a cheesy flavor without the creaminess.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting your chicken perfectly cooked can be tricky, but here are a few tips:
- Make sure your skillet is heated well—this helps sear the chicken quickly and lock in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer if you have one. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.
- If you have thicker chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the skillet. This keeps it juicy as it will continue to cook slightly from residual heat.
Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe for Easy Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
For the Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a total of around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This is key to ensuring your chicken is flavorful!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts, cooking them until golden brown on each side and the chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes for each side depending on thickness. Once they’re done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! Then, pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard, mixing well to combine.
4. Add Herbs and Simmer:
Add the dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley to the sauce. Let it simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens up a bit. If you want to add depth, now is the time to stir in the optional Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and all combined.
5. Combine and Finish Cooking:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some creamy sauce over the top, and let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
6. Serve:
Garnish the dish with fresh herbs, and serve your creamy herb chicken hot! Pair it with sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies to complete your meal. Enjoy!
Your creamy, herb-infused chicken dinner is ready. Bon appétit!
FAQ about Creamy Herb Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work great in this recipe and add even more flavor due to their higher fat content. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly; thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with a Lighter Option?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk as a lighter alternative. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be less creamy and thick, but it will still taste delicious! You could also add a little flour or cornstarch to help thicken it.
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, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to retain moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To turn this dish into a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and follow the same cooking method for a delicious meat-free version!