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Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice: A Delightful Comfort Meal


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  • Author: Lina Judi
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A delicious and comforting dish that combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with a rich, creamy herb sauce and perfectly cooked basmati rice. This easy-to-make recipe is a perfect weeknight meal, offering a satisfying balance of flavors.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large chicken breasts (or 4 small), cut in half lengthwise
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter

For the Creamy Herb Sauce:

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half & half for a lighter version)
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Basmati Rice:

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Chicken:

    • Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano.
    • Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 75°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.
  • Make the Creamy Herb Sauce:

    • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
    • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes.
    • Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for another 3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
    • Stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, then return the chicken to the skillet. Coat the chicken with the sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  • Prepare the Basmati Rice:

    • In a separate pot, bring the water (or chicken broth) to a boil. Add salt and butter, then stir in the basmati rice.
    • Cover and reduce heat to low, simmering for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
    • Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
  • Serve:

    • Serve the creamy herb chicken over the basmati rice, spooning extra sauce over the top.

Notes

  • You can substitute half & half for a lighter sauce or use heavy cream for a richer, creamier dish.
  • The rice can be cooked with chicken broth for extra flavor.
  • You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for added flavor and texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-searing and simmering
  • Cuisine: American / Italian