Name: Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs); 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh); 1 tsp dried parsley (or 2 tsp fresh); 1/2 tsp dried dill (optional); 1/2 tsp dried basil (or 1 tsp fresh); 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half); 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp salt (to taste); 1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste); 1 1/2 cups basmati rice; 3 cups water or broth (for rice)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the best of both worlds—succulent chicken in a velvety herb-infused sauce and perfectly cooked basmati rice to soak it all up. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough for a weekend meal. The creamy sauce is versatile, the rice is light and fragrant, and the dish is balanced, filling, and comforting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Olive oil or butter
Onion
Garlic
Fresh or dried herbs (such as thyme, parsley, dill, or basil)
Chicken broth
Heavy cream (or half-and-half)
Grated Parmesan cheese
Salt
Black pepper
Basmati rice
Water or broth (for cooking rice)

Directions

Rinse basmati rice until water runs clear. Cook according to package directions with water or broth until fluffy, then set aside.
Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, sauté onion until softened, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits. Reduce slightly.
Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and herbs. Simmer until the sauce thickens.
Return chicken to the pan and coat with the creamy herb sauce.
Serve hot with a generous scoop of basmati rice on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.
Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra texture and flavor.
Swap basmati rice for jasmine rice, quinoa, or couscous.
Make it lighter by using Greek yogurt or light cream instead of heavy cream.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. For the rice, sprinkle with a little water before reheating to prevent dryness. This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the cream sauce can separate.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but it will take longer to cook. Make sure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, then reheat and serve with freshly cooked rice.

What herbs work best in the sauce?

Thyme, parsley, dill, and basil are great options. You can use a mix of fresh and dried herbs.

Can I substitute the cream?

Yes, half-and-half or evaporated milk can be used, though the sauce will be less rich.

How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low when adding cream and avoid boiling it rapidly.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut milk and dairy-free Parmesan for a similar creamy texture.

What side dishes go well with this recipe?

Steamed vegetables, roasted asparagus, or a fresh green salad pair nicely.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, leftover basmati rice works well—just reheat before serving.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Add a slurry of cornstarch and water or simmer longer to reduce the liquid.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the creamy sauce and mild flavors are generally loved by kids.

Conclusion

Creamy herb chicken with basmati rice is a flavorful, comforting meal that combines tender chicken, a rich herb-infused sauce, and light, fluffy rice. It’s easy to prepare, customizable with your favorite herbs and vegetables, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. This dish is sure to become a regular in your kitchen.