Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice

A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Meal

Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is a delightful dish that combines tender, herb-infused chicken with aromatic, fluffy basmati rice in a rich, creamy sauce. This meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering both comfort and gourmet appeal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: A luscious sauce coats the chicken and rice, making every bite indulgent.
• Aromatic & Flavorful: Fresh herbs and basmati rice create an enticing fragrance.
• Easy to Make: Requires simple ingredients but delivers restaurant-quality results.
• One-Pan Option: Can be prepared in a single skillet for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter

For the Creamy Herb Sauce:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
• ½ teaspoon dried basil (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Basmati Rice:

• 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter

Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Basmati Rice

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a pot, bring 2 cups of chicken broth (or water) to a boil.
3. Stir in the rice, salt, and butter, then reduce heat to low.
4. Cover and let simmer for 15 minutes, then remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

2. Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and thyme.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Herb Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
3. Add Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, rosemary, and basil. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted.

4. Combine and Serve

1. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Serve the chicken over the fluffy basmati rice, spooning extra sauce on top.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Variations and Substitutions

• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit the Parmesan.
• Protein Swap: Try this with shrimp, salmon, or tofu for a different twist.
• Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a little heat.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The sauce may not freeze well, but the chicken and rice can be stored for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use low heat when adding cream and avoid boiling it. Stir continuously to keep it smooth.

Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?

Yes, but it requires a longer cooking time (about 40–45 minutes) and extra liquid.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the broth and mustard are gluten-free.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or garlic bread pairs well.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes! Prepare the rice and sauce separately and store them in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

What herbs work best in this dish?

Fresh basil, rosemary, thyme, and parsley enhance the flavor beautifully.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but increase the cooking time to ensure thorough doneness.

What if my sauce is too thin?

Simmer it longer or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.

How do I make it a one-pan meal?

Cook the rice in the skillet after searing the chicken, using the sauce as the cooking liquid.

Conclusion

Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is a fantastic meal that blends elegance and comfort. The combination of tender chicken, creamy herb sauce, and fragrant rice makes it a family favorite. Try this recipe for an easy yet gourmet meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Print