If you’re looking for a one-pan wonder that brings together richness, comfort, and a burst of herby flavor, Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is about to become your absolute favorite. This dreamy dish features tender, juicy chicken simmered with fragrant basmati rice in a luscious, creamy Parmesan sauce, all enlivened by a bouquet of aromatic herbs. It’s irresistible and surprisingly easy, making it just as perfect for cozy weeknights as it is for impressing friends at a dinner party.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is short, but every component brings a unique flair to the table — from the aromatic herbs to the creamy cheese, each item adds something special. Here’s what you’ll need and why each element matters.
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Juicy, tender, and ready to soak up all those delicious flavors — use whichever cut you love most.
- Olive oil: Adds subtle richness and helps get that irresistible golden sear on the chicken.
- Butter: For an extra touch of creaminess and to deepen the flavor profile of the dish.
- Onion: Finely chopped to create a sweet, savory base that ties the flavors together.
- Garlic: Essential for a fragrant, mouthwatering aroma and that classic punch only garlic can give.
- Dried thyme: Earthy and slightly minty, thyme brightens up every bite.
- Dried parsley: Adds freshness and color, making the whole dish look and taste vibrant.
- Dried rosemary: Brings a gentle piney, woodsy flavor — a little goes a long way here!
- Salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors in the pan.
- Black pepper: Gives just enough gentle heat to round things out perfectly.
- Basmati rice: This long-grain, aromatic rice stays fluffy and light as it absorbs the herby goodness.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory depth and keeps everything incredibly moist.
- Heavy cream: The key to that indulgently creamy, sauce-like finish we all crave.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds tangy, nutty notes and helps everything blend together.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Optional, but the pop of green makes the final plate look extra inviting.
How to Make Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating both olive oil and butter in a large skillet or deep sauté pan over medium heat. Season your chicken on both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper — this is when the flavor journey really begins! Sear each piece until golden brown, about 5 to 6 minutes per side, adjusting for thickness. When the chicken is cooked through and gorgeously golden, set it aside on a plate (don’t worry, it’ll be back soon).
Step 2: Build a Flavorful Base
In the same pan, with all those tasty browned bits left from the chicken, add your finely chopped onion. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent — this releases all their sweetness into the pan. Next, add the garlic, thyme, parsley, and rosemary. Stir it all together for about a minute, just until the kitchen smells incredible and everything is fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Rice & Simmer
Add your rinsed basmati rice straight to the pan, stirring to coat each grain in those herbs and aromatics. This step ensures every bite is infused with flavor. Pour in the chicken broth, crank up the heat to bring it to a gentle boil, then drop it down to low. Cover and let the rice simmer for 15 minutes, letting it soak up all that herby goodness until it’s tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Make It Creamy and Cheesy
When your rice is perfectly tender, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. This is where Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice transforms into sheer decadence. Stir until the sauce is silky smooth and luxuriously creamy — you’ll see everything turn glossy and irresistible.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Slide the chicken back into the pan, nestling each piece into the creamy rice. Let everything simmer for an extra 2 to 3 minutes to bring the flavors together. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley for brightness, and serve immediately while hot and bubbly.
How to Serve Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice
Garnishes
A final flourish of freshly chopped parsley not only brings a pop of color, but also enhances the herby aroma that defines Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice. A few extra shavings of Parmesan over each plate is always a good idea, adding salty, nutty depth to every forkful.
Side Dishes
Because this dish is already so well-rounded, simple sides work best. A crisp green salad with lemony vinaigrette or lightly roasted veggies (think asparagus, broccoli, or carrots) complement the rich, creamy flavors without overwhelming your tastebuds.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to really wow, serve Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice in shallow bowls, topped with a generous crusting of Parmesan and a swirl of cream, or portion it into elegant ramekins for an upscale dinner vibe. Family-style in the pan also invites everyone to dig in together — the more rustic, the better!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to lock in all that creaminess. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next meal extra tasty!
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, though the cream sauce may separate ever so slightly upon thawing. Let it cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
For the creamiest texture, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen things up. Microwave works too — cover your plate and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between to prevent the sauce from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use brown basmati rice instead?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown basmati takes a little longer to cook and may need an extra splash of broth. The end result is nutty, wholesome, and still pairs beautifully with the creamy herb sauce.
What herbs can I substitute if I don’t have all of them on hand?
If you’re missing one of the dried herbs, don’t stress! You can swap in Italian seasoning or even fresh herbs if you have them. The beauty of Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is that it’s forgiving and adapts to what’s in your pantry.
Can this dish be made dairy-free?
Yes! Use your favorite plant-based cream and cheese substitutes (like oat or coconut cream and vegan Parmesan). The texture will be a bit different, but the dish still tastes fabulous and satisfying.
Is there a way to make Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice lighter?
For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even evaporated milk. You can also use low-fat cheese, but keep in mind that the sauce may be a little thinner — still delicious, though!
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If the sauce tightens up more than you’d like, simply stir in a little warm chicken broth or extra cream until you reach your desired consistency. Start with a tablespoon at a time and mix well for the creamiest result.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing a plate of Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice with those you love. The blend of silky herbs, tender chicken, and velvety rice makes every meal feel like a warm celebration. Give it a try soon — you’ll be amazed just how quickly it climbs to the top of your family’s favorites!
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Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this delicious Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice dish. Tender chicken cooked to perfection in a flavorful herb-infused cream sauce, served alongside fragrant basmati rice. A one-pan wonder that will surely become a family favorite!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Rice:
- 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet, sear seasoned chicken until cooked through, then set aside.
- Prepare the Rice: Sauté onion, garlic, herbs, add rice and broth, simmer until tender.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in cream and cheese, return chicken to pan, simmer briefly. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken before cooking.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
- This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
