If you have been searching for a truly delightful, comforting dinner that feels fancy without the fuss, this Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. The tender chicken breasts are pan-seared to golden perfection and bathed in a lush, herb-infused cream sauce that dances with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a symphony of Italian herbs. Each bite is bursting with vibrant flavor and silky texture, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser on any weeknight or special occasion. This recipe is straightforward enough for cooks of all levels yet sophisticated enough to impress. Prepare to make this creamy herb chicken your new go-to meal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—every ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of creaminess, zest, and savory depth. These familiar pantry staples come together effortlessly but deliver layers of flavor and texture you’ll love.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs): The star protein providing juicy, tender bites.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken to a gorgeous golden crust.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps soften the garlic’s flavor.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the sauce with an aromatic punch.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Creates the flavorful base for the sauce.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a savory, slightly nutty taste that enriches the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs tying the dish together.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Adds subtle earthiness and depth.
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley: Brightens the flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional): For thickening the sauce if you like it extra luscious.
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.
How to Make Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry and seasoning both sides evenly with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the chicken in the pan and sear for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, creating a beautiful golden-brown crust while locking in juices. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your creamy herb chicken recipe.
Step 2: Build the Aromatic Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet used for searing the chicken. As it melts, stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, scraping up all those irresistible browned bits from the pan. These bits are flavor gold! This liquid will turn into the irresistible sauce that envelops the chicken.
Step 3: Add Cream, Cheese, and Herbs
Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, the remaining dried Italian seasoning, thyme, and parsley. Let everything simmer for 2 to 3 minutes allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld beautifully. If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk in the cornstarch slurry and cook until you achieve the desired consistency. This is where the sauce becomes decadently creamy, making this Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe truly unforgettable.
Step 4: Finish by Combining Chicken and Sauce
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the dreamy sauce. Spoon over some of the sauce and simmer everything together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. This step ensures the chicken soaks up the herbal creaminess, locking in flavor and moisture. Once ready, garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and you’re set to dig in!
How to Serve Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a lovely burst of green color and brightness to the dish. You could also try a little extra grated Parmesan for an appealing finish. These simple touches elevate the presentation and flavor, perfect for serving guests or family alike.
Side Dishes
This creamy herb chicken shines beautifully atop fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, which soak up every bit of that rich sauce. Alternatively, a side of steamed green vegetables like asparagus or broccoli adds balance with a fresh crunch and lightness. Rice or cauliflower rice are other fantastic options to complement this hearty meal without overpowering the delicate, creamy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, slice the chicken breasts and fan them out on a serving platter, then drizzle the sauce over the top and garnish with parsley. If you’re looking for a cozy, rustic vibe, serve everything in individual cast-iron skillets straight to the table. Either way, the Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe looks as comforting as it tastes!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious—perfect for busy weeknights or easy lunch options.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To ensure the sauce maintains its creamy texture, it’s best to cool the meal completely before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it gently in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly over low heat on the stovetop to prevent the cream sauce from breaking or curdling. Stir occasionally and add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce appears too thick. Microwaving is possible but should be done in short bursts, stirring to evenly warm the chicken and sauce.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through and tender.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk to reduce fat content. Keep in mind the sauce may be slightly less rich but still delicious and creamy.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based cream alternative and skip the Parmesan cheese or swap it for a vegan substitute. The dish will still be tasty, though slightly different in flavor and texture.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
The recipe includes a cornstarch slurry that you can stir into the sauce during cooking to thicken it. Alternatively, simmering the sauce longer will naturally reduce and thicken it.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! The Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe reheats well and can be portioned out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just store in airtight containers for convenience.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting about a warm, creamy sauce layered with fragrant herbs and perfectly cooked chicken, and this recipe hits that mark every single time. I can’t recommend enough giving this Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe a spot in your dinner rotation—it’s easy, delicious, and sure to become an instant favorite. Take a break from the ordinary and treat yourself to this soul-warming meal, you won’t regret it!
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Creamy Herb Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Herb Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked in a rich and flavorful creamy Parmesan herb sauce. Perfectly seared and simmered on the stovetop, it’s an easy, comforting main course that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (half reserved for seasoning)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (remaining half)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, and half of the dried Italian seasoning to infuse flavor before cooking.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: Lower the heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet and stir in the minced garlic, cooking it for about 30 seconds until fragrant to build the sauce’s flavor foundation.
- Add Liquids and Herbs: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring it to a simmer while scraping the bottom to loosen brown bits. Then add heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, the remaining dried Italian seasoning, thyme, and parsley. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If a thicker sauce is preferred, stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and cook for an additional minute until the sauce reaches desired consistency.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Simmer everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes to heat through and blend the flavors perfectly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a fulfilling meal.
Notes
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
- To reduce the richness, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
