Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice

Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is the ultimate comfort meal that combines tender, juicy chicken with aromatic basmati rice and a rich, creamy herb sauce. This one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, offering restaurant-quality flavors without the hassle. With minimal prep, easy cleanup, and a dish that cooks in under an hour, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite for families and home cooks alike. The creamy, herb-infused sauce seeps into every grain of rice and coats each piece of chicken, creating a perfectly balanced, flavorful meal.

The inspiration for this recipe comes from classic comfort food, elevated with fresh herbs and creamy textures. Basmati rice brings a delicate fragrance, while the combination of thyme, rosemary, and oregano infuses the dish with deep, earthy flavors. Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce, adding richness and subtle nutty undertones. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable, ideal for anyone craving a satisfying, wholesome dinner. Best served hot with a sprinkling of fresh parsley and a touch of lemon zest, this meal will impress both your family and guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal with minimal cleanup
• Tender, flavorful chicken with a creamy herb sauce
• Fluffy basmati rice that soaks up all the sauce
• Flexible with protein substitutions such as shrimp, salmon, or tofu
• Can be made dairy-free or lighter with simple swaps
• Perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or special occasions

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Chicken

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Herb Cream Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 cup heavy cream or half & half
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

For the Basmati Rice

• 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Garnishing

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest, optional

Servings

• Serves 4 people

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet with lid
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Whisk
• Spoon or spatula
• Rinsing bowl for rice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel and season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove it from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the diced onion. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Basmati Rice

Add the rinsed basmati rice to the skillet and stir for 1 minute to toast slightly. Pour in the chicken broth along with salt and black pepper. Stir to combine and ensure even distribution.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Herb Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Add thyme, rosemary, oregano, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts fully into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy mixture.

Step 5: Simmer & Cook Everything Together

Nestle the seared chicken back into the pan, making sure it is partially submerged in the sauce and rice. Cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and optional lemon zest for a bright, fresh finish. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, herbaceous flavors.

Tips & Variations

• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
• Add Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas can be added to increase nutrition.
• Protein Swaps: Try shrimp, salmon, or tofu instead of chicken for variation.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
• Herb Swaps: Fresh herbs can replace dried, using three times the amount for stronger flavor.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This dish combines creamy, savory, and aromatic flavors. The herbs provide earthiness and depth, while Parmesan adds richness. The basmati rice absorbs the creamy sauce, making every bite flavorful. Serve alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutritional Overview

Per serving, this meal is nutrient-dense and provides a good balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Chicken supplies high-quality protein, while the cream sauce and cheese add richness. Basmati rice offers complex carbohydrates and fiber, making it a satisfying, wholesome dinner option.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Sear chicken in advance and store in the refrigerator until ready to finish cooking with sauce and rice.
• Rinse rice ahead of time to speed up the cooking process.
• The sauce can be prepared in advance and reheated gently on the stovetop before adding chicken and rice.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of basmati? Yes, but increase the broth and cooking time.
How do I prevent rice from sticking? Rinse rice thoroughly to remove excess starch.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Yes, triple the quantity for maximum flavor.
How do I make the sauce thicker? Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or add a cornstarch slurry.
Can I meal prep this dish? Yes, store in containers for easy grab-and-go meals.
What cheese works best? Parmesan is classic, but Asiago or Gruyère also work well.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, add during the last 5 minutes to warm through.
How do I prevent mushy rice? Use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio and avoid over-stirring.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve chicken with rice smothered in creamy herb sauce, garnished with parsley and lemon zest. Complement the meal with roasted or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Creamy Herb Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
2. Cheesy Variation: Stir extra Parmesan or Gruyère into the sauce for richness.
3. Veggie-Packed Version: Add mushrooms, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition.
4. Seafood Alternative: Swap chicken for shrimp or salmon for a lighter, seafood-focused meal.

Ingredient Spotlight

Basmati Rice: Aromatic, fluffy, and perfect for absorbing creamy sauces. Rinse before cooking to remove excess starch for a lighter texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty, savory richness to the sauce. Use freshly grated for best melting and flavor.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe and juicy results.
• Toast rice slightly before adding liquid to enhance flavor.
• Cover and simmer gently to prevent scorching the cream sauce.
• Rest the dish 5 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Microwave in intervals or reheat on stovetop with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Calories: 550 kcal | Protein: 32 g | Carbs: 45 g | Fat: 28 g | Saturated Fat: 15 g | Fiber: 2 g | Sugar: 3 g | Sodium: variable | Calcium: 150 mg | Iron: 2 mg

Expanded Conclusion

Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is a comforting, flavor-packed one-pan meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. With tender chicken, aromatic basmati rice, and a creamy herb sauce, this dish offers a restaurant-quality experience at home. Perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep, it’s easy to make, versatile, and utterly delicious. Try this recipe and savor the rich, herby flavors that make it a new favorite for your home-cooked meals.

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