This creamy herb chicken is a perfect dinner that comes together quickly. Tender chicken pieces get a rich sauce made with fresh herbs and cream, making every bite delicious!
I love how easy this dish is! Just cook the chicken, mix in the creamy sauce, and you’ve got a meal that feels special without all the fuss. Serve it with rice or pasta—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they cook quickly and become tender. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a richer flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the sauce its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. However, the flavor may be slightly different.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and chives are fantastic for flavor. You can also use dried herbs if needed—just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use less (about a third of the amount).
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a lovely cheesy bite. If you’re avoiding cheese, nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free substitute that still delivers a cheesy flavor.
How Do You Make the Sauce Creamy and Flavorful?
Creating a creamy sauce involves a few essential techniques that enhance flavor. Here’s how you get that perfect sauce:
- Start by sautéing the garlic in the leftover oil from the chicken. This builds a flavor base that’s essential.
- When you add the chicken broth, scrape any brown bits from the pan. These add deep flavor to the sauce.
- Simmer the sauce after adding cream and cheese. It helps the ingredients meld together and thicken nicely.
- Add the herbs at the end to keep their vibrant flavor—cooking them too long can make them lose their freshness.
Taking these steps ensures a rich and delicious sauce that perfectly complements the chicken. Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe for Easy Dinners
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 Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy herb chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious dinner ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavors right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and fully cooked—no pink inside! Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. This adds a lovely aroma to your dish!
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth while stirring. Remember to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan as they pack a ton of flavor! Next, reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce starts to thicken. This is where the magic happens!
5. Add Fresh Herbs:
Now, add the chopped parsley, thyme, and chives. Stir everything together so those lovely herb flavors mix in nicely with the creamy sauce.
6. Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the delicious sauce over the top, and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Plate your creamy herb chicken with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta. Drizzle some extra sauce over the top and enjoy your hearty, flavorful dinner!
FAQ for Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s essential to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw chicken overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning and cooking for the best results!
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or make a lighter version using milk combined with a tablespoon of flour to thicken it. Keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly with these alternatives.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Creamy Herb Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the sauce. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the broth, so they cook through and absorb the flavors of the dish!
