Description
If you’re looking for a rich, creamy, and herb-infused dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this Creamy Herb Chicken with Basmati Rice is the perfect choice! Tender, perfectly seasoned chicken is paired with fragrant basmati rice and coated in a velvety garlic-herb cream sauce that will have you savoring every bite. Aromatic herbs, buttery richness, and a hint of spice make this a comforting yet elegant meal that’s ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed chilies (optional for spice)
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Herb Cream Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon fennel seeds (optional)
- 4 oz cream cheese
- ½ cup milk (or buttermilk for a tangy flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For the Basmati Rice:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Cook the Basmati Rice
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil.
- Add the rinsed rice and ¼ teaspoon salt, then cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
2. Sear and Season the Chicken
- In a bowl, coat the diced chicken with paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed chilies.
- Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Create the Creamy Herb Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-low heat.
- Add minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, basil, and fennel seeds, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in cream cheese and milk, whisking until smooth and creamy.
4. Simmer and Serve
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy herb sauce.
- Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Serve hot over warm basmati rice, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Use Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor – Swap dried herbs for fresh thyme, rosemary, and basil for a more aromatic dish.
- Sear the Chicken Well – Browning the chicken adds extra depth and caramelization to the dish.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency – If too thick, add more milk or chicken broth; if too thin, let it simmer longer.
- Enhance the Spice Level – Add a dash of cayenne pepper or extra crushed chilies for a bit of heat.
- Dairy-Free Option – Use coconut milk and dairy-free cream cheese for a lactose-free alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired