If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve found it with this Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice Recipe. It’s a perfect marriage of tender, juicy chicken bathed in a luxuriously creamy sauce infused with fragrant herbs, all served over a bed of fluffy, aromatic basmati rice. Every bite offers a comforting depth of flavor, balancing richness and freshness in a way that makes you want to savor every forkful. This recipe is not only delicious but also approachable, making it a fantastic go-to for a weekday dinner or a special gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together in a harmonious way to build layers of flavor and texture. Each element, from the garlic and herbs to the creamy sauce and delicate basmati rice, plays an essential role in making this dish sing.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender protein base that soaks up all the lovely flavors.
- Olive oil: For that initial golden sear on the chicken, adding depth and crispness.
- Salt and pepper: The all-important seasoning to bring out every ingredient’s best.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: These add subtle warmth and complexity to the chicken’s seasoning.
- Paprika: For a gentle smoky hint and gorgeous color.
- Butter: Provides a silky richness to the sauce and rice.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Softens and sweetens the sauce base beautifully.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with a fragrant punch that’s irresistible.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and moisture to both the sauce and rice.
- Heavy cream: The star that makes the sauce decadently velvety and luscious.
- Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle tanginess that cuts through the richness perfectly.
- Dried thyme, rosemary, and basil: These herbs create a fragrant, earthy background note that elevates the dish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, creamy finish to the sauce.
- Basmati rice: Its fluffy, separate grains and delicate aroma make it the ideal partner for the creamy chicken.
- Water or chicken broth: To cook the rice, boosting its flavor.
How to Make Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Basmati Rice
Start by rinsing the basmati rice under cold running water until the water runs clear; this removes excess starch and prevents clumping. Bring the water or chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan, then add the rice, a pinch of salt, and butter or olive oil. Cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it gently simmer for 15-18 minutes until the grains are tender and the liquid has absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork to reveal perfectly separated, fragrant grains ready to soak up that creamy herb sauce.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
While the rice cooks, season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, allowing it to develop a golden-brown crust while locking in the juices. Once cooked through, remove from the pan and set aside—but don’t wash the pan; you’ll use those browned bits to build your sauce.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Herb Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent and sweet, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aroma. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the pan to lift all the flavorful bits off the bottom. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, basil, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Let this simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld into a creamy herbal delight.
Step 4: Finish with Parmesan and Combine
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it all simmer together for 2-3 minutes so the chicken can soak up that luxurious sauce and stay warm. This final step ensures every bite is infused with the luscious flavors that make this Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice Recipe so incredibly satisfying.
How to Serve Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or additional thyme sprigs add a bright, fresh touch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top can also add a lovely finishing touch.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables, such as asparagus or green beans, will provide a refreshing balance. Roasted carrots or a tangy cucumber and tomato salad would also complement this creamy, hearty dish beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the chicken sliced over a neat bed of basmati rice on a large platter, drizzling extra sauce artistically around it for an elegant touch. Alternatively, plate individual servings with a colorful side to brighten the presentation, and add a lemon wedge for a pop of acidity that guests can squeeze over the chicken.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes nicely if you want to prep in advance. Separate the chicken and rice into portions and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and the chicken moist.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more fat and can be even juicier, but you’ll want to adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use dairy-free butter or olive oil in the sauce and rice. The flavor will be slightly different but delicious nonetheless.
Can I prepare this dish without fresh herbs?
The recipe includes dried herbs, so fresh herbs aren’t necessary but can elevate the freshness of the dish. If you only have fresh herbs, feel free to use them in place of dried, adjusting the quantities as fresh herbs are more potent.
What is the best way to reheat the rice without it drying out?
When reheating rice, add a splash of water or broth and cover the dish tightly to trap steam. This helps restore moisture and keep the rice fluffy rather than dry or hard.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The surest way is using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, cut into the thickest part to confirm there’s no pink inside and the juices run clear.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feel both special and simple at the same time. It’s rich, flavorful, and comforting—the kind of meal that can brighten any day or impress guests with minimal fuss. I warmly encourage you to try it for yourself, enjoy the cozy satisfaction it delivers, and then share it with your loved ones. Once you’ve tasted this creamy, herby goodness, it might just become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Print
Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice recipe features juicy, pan-seared chicken breasts served in a rich and flavorful creamy herb sauce made with garlic, Dijon mustard, fresh and dried herbs, and Parmesan cheese. Paired with fluffy, perfectly cooked basmati rice, this comforting dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner that comes together in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Creamy Herb Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Rice
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Boil rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, a pinch of salt, and butter or olive oil.
- Simmer rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork.
- Season chicken: While the rice cooks, season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté onions: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan to incorporate rich flavors.
- Create sauce: Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, basil, and salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue cooking the sauce for another 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy herb sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes so the chicken absorbs the sauce flavors.
- Serve: Serve each chicken breast over a bed of fluffy basmati rice. Spoon additional sauce on top and garnish with fresh herbs if desired for an elegant finishing touch.
Notes
- To ensure perfectly fluffy rice, avoid lifting the lid during the simmering process.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor, but adjust quantities accordingly.
- Make sure chicken breasts are even thickness to cook uniformly; pound if necessary.
- Leftover chicken and sauce pair well with steamed vegetables or a simple green salad.
