This creamy herb chicken is super easy and perfect for a quick dinner. Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich, flavorful sauce made with fresh herbs and cream—yummy!
I love how you can whip this up in no time. It pairs well with rice or veggies, making it a complete meal that feels fancy but is really simple. Give it a try! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. They cook quickly and stay juicy. For a different flavor, you can use thighs or even turkey breast if you prefer.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy and rich. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version, but the consistency will differ.
Dijon Mustard: It adds a tangy kick to the sauce. If you don’t have Dijon, regular mustard works too, just with a milder flavor. You can also omit it if you prefer no mustard at all!
Herbs: I recommend using dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley for flavor. Fresh herbs bring a vibrant taste, so if you have them, go for it! Adjust the amount based on your preference since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds depth to the sauce. If you want to keep it dairy-free, you can skip it or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Get Juicy Chicken Breasts?
Getting juicy chicken can be tricky, but here are some tips! First, make sure not to overcook the chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
- Season your chicken well before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, making the meat tender.
- Try using a bit of marinade or brine before cooking for extra moisture and flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Make a Creamy Sauce?
Making the sauce creamy and luscious is simple! Heat the skillet after cooking chicken to get the fond (those tasty bits stuck to the pan). This adds flavor to your sauce.
- Add the garlic and sauté briefly to avoid burning.
- Mix in the broth first; it helps deglaze the pan. Scrape those bits up!
- Add the cream slowly and let the sauce simmer gently. This thickens it without curdling.
- Stir in the cheese last, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce.
With these tips, you’ll be set for a delightful dinner!
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
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy herb chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. Although it’s quick, it feels special and fancy enough for any dinner occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple step adds wonderful flavor to the chicken before cooking.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to lift up any delicious browned bits. This adds extra flavor to your sauce!
5. Add Cream and Herbs:
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Mix everything together thoroughly and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it starts to thicken.
6. Finish the Sauce:
Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken and allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes to reheat the chicken.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is heated through, plate your chicken and drizzle extra sauce on top. If you like, garnish with fresh herbs for a touch of color and flavor. Serve with your favorite sides such as rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!
Enjoy your creamy herb chicken—it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but cooking time will vary. Bone-in thighs or drumsticks will take about 30-40 minutes to cook through. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check that they reach 165°F (75°C) internally.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk. However, keep in mind that the consistency and flavor will be slightly different.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe dairy-free, use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative for the sauce, and skip the Parmesan cheese, or substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
