Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe for Easy Dinner

Category: Chicken Recipes

This Creamy Herb Chicken is a simple and tasty dinner option. Chicken is cooked in a creamy sauce made with fresh herbs, making every bite flavorful and comforting!

I love serving this with rice or pasta, as it soaks up that delicious sauce perfectly. It’s a meal that feels fancy, but it’s super easy to whip up after a busy day! 🍽️

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this dish due to their quick cooking time. You can swap them for chicken thighs for a richer flavor or use tofu for a vegetarian option.

Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, opt for half-and-half or coconut milk. For a dairy-free option, use cashew cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative.

Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley, thyme, and chives for freshness. If these aren’t available, dried herbs can work, but use about a third of the amount. You can also try basil or dill for a different flavor twist!

Parmesan Cheese: While optional, it adds a nice depth to the sauce. You can substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version or leave it out entirely.

How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?

Making a creamy sauce might seem tricky, but it’s all about technique. Here’s how to do it right:

  • Start with a hot skillet to get a nice sear on the chicken, which adds depth of flavor.
  • Be sure to scrape up those brown bits after cooking the chicken. They add incredible flavor to your sauce!
  • Let the sauce simmer gently to avoid curdling the heavy cream. Stir occasionally to keep it smooth.
  • Don’t rush the process! Give the sauce time to thicken and meld with the herbs.

These steps are key for a creamy and flavorful sauce. Enjoy making this wonderful meal!

Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe for Easy Dinner

Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Lemon juice (from 1/2 lemon), optional for brightness

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking, making a total of around 25 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but delicious enough for a special meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken:

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance their flavor as they cook.

2. Cook the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Use a meat thermometer if needed; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Sauté the Garlic:

In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

4. Create the Sauce:

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to lift any tasty browned bits. This adds great flavor to your sauce.

5. Add Cream and Mustard:

Stir in the heavy cream and the Dijon mustard (if you’re using it). Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it starts to thicken. Stir occasionally to keep the sauce smooth.

6. Add Fresh Herbs:

Mix in the fresh herbs—parsley, thyme, and chives—along with the dried oregano. This will give your sauce a fantastic fresh flavor!

7. Incorporate Parmesan Cheese:

If you love cheese, now’s the time to stir in the Parmesan until it melts and combines nicely with the sauce. This step is optional but oh-so-delicious!

8. Combine Chicken with Sauce:

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy herb sauce. Spoon some sauce over the chicken and let it simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to warm everything through.

9. Finish with Lemon Juice:

For a burst of brightness, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving. This enhances all the flavors!

10. Serve and Enjoy:

Plate the chicken with generous amounts of the creamy herb sauce drizzled over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta. Enjoy your easy and delicious Creamy Herb Chicken dinner!

Happy cooking! 🍽️

Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe for Easy Dinner

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and stay moist during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. However, do note that the sauce’s texture and richness may vary a bit with these substitutes.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.

Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?

Definitely! You can sauté some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers along with the garlic to add even more flavor and nutrition to the creamy sauce.

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