Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal Recipe

This Creamy Herb Chicken with Basmati Rice is a comforting one-pan meal packed with rich flavors and tender chicken. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines aromatic herbs with creamy sauce and fluffy rice for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Add them to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the basmati rice and cook for 2 minutes to lightly toast it.
3. Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
4. Step 4: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture. Cover the skillet and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine before adding the broth and cream.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary if available for a more vibrant taste.
• Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free version with a subtle twist.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the rice mixture for added texture and nutrients.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?

You can substitute basmati rice with jasmine or long-grain white rice, but cooking times and liquid amounts may vary slightly.

Is it possible to prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can partially cook the chicken and rice separately, then combine and finish cooking when ready to serve for a quicker meal.

Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 126 reviews

This Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice recipe is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are cooked alongside fragrant basmati rice in a creamy herb sauce, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes with minimal cleanup. Infused with fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of cream, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Rice

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Creamy Herb Sauce

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This ensures each bite is well-flavored from the start.
2. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown but not fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook the aromatics: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. This will build a flavor base for the sauce and rice.
4. Add rice and broth: Pour in the rinsed basmati rice and chicken broth. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Return chicken to pan: Nestle the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice. Reduce heat to a low simmer and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid.
6. Simmer to cook rice and chicken: Cook covered for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Make the creamy herb sauce: Remove the lid and add heavy cream, Dijon mustard, fresh parsley, thyme, and Parmesan cheese directly into the pan. Stir gently to combine and allow the sauce to thicken slightly for 3-4 minutes.
8. Final seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. The creamy herb sauce should coat the chicken and rice beautifully.
9. Serve: Spoon the creamy herb chicken and basmati rice onto plates, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful one-pan meal immediately.

Notes

• Rinsing the basmati rice prevents it from becoming too sticky.
• Use a heavy-bottomed pan with a tight lid to ensure even cooking of rice and chicken.
• Fresh herbs can be substituted with 1 teaspoon each of dried parsley and thyme if fresh is unavailable.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
• Let the chicken rest covered for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.

Keywords: creamy chicken, basmati rice, one-pan meal, herb chicken, comforting dinner, easy dinner recipe