Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice

This Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is the ultimate one-pan meal that proves comfort food doesn't have to be complicated. Savory chicken meets creamy herbs on a fluffy bed of basmati rice for an irresistible meal that’s simple yet satisfying. With tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection, aromatic thyme, rosemary, and basil blended into a luscious sauce, and the rich cream swirling through each grain, every bite feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight. Preparation is a breeze—just 15 minutes to prep, 35 minutes to cook, and a brief 5-minute rest—making it an ideal easy dinner for anyone craving a hearty, satisfying plate without spending hours in the kitchen. At around 600 calories per serving, it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and practicality, whether you’re feeding family, friends, or enjoying a cozy solo meal.

I still remember the first time I whipped this up on a drizzly Sunday afternoon when I needed something nourishing yet fuss-free. The house filled with an inviting blend of garlic and butter while the skillet worked its magic, and I couldn’t resist sneaking a taste of the creamy rice before the chicken even returned to the pan. It reminded me of those beloved home-cooked meals from childhood—simple ingredients elevated by love and a pinch of creativity. Since then, it’s become my go-to one-pan meal for lunch or dinner, earning rave reviews at every potluck and weeknight table. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned foodie, this dish is your ticket to a flavorful, fuss-free dinner that delivers maximum comfort with minimal cleanup. Pull out a crisp green salad and a chilled glass of white wine, and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy spread without the fuss or expense.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN CREAMY HERB CHICKEN & BASMATI RICE

Before diving into the cooking steps, let’s talk about what makes this dish shine. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in building layers of flavor, texture, and aroma that transform basic pantry staples into a comforting, crave-worthy meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken breasts

Boneless and skinless for easy searing and even cooking. These lean cuts deliver tender, juicy meat that soaks up the creamy herb sauce beautifully.

• Basmati rice

Known for its light, fluffy grains and fragrant aroma, basmati rice provides the perfect canvas to absorb all those herby, buttery flavors.

• Chicken broth

Acts as the primary cooking liquid for the rice, infusing each grain with savory depth and richness that plain water simply can’t match.

• Heavy cream

Adds luxurious silkiness to the dish, creating a smooth, velvety sauce that clings to both rice and chicken for indulgent flavor in every bite.

• Olive oil

Offers a fruity, slightly peppery base for searing the chicken and sautéing aromatics, while contributing heart-healthy fats.

• Butter

Enhances richness and lends a subtle sweetness when melting into the onions and garlic, layering in extra depth.

• Onion

Finely chopped to release natural sugars that caramelize quickly, providing a sweet, savory foundation for the sauce.

• Garlic

Minced for an intense, aromatic punch that rounds out the flavor profile and complements the herbs.

• Dried thyme, rosemary, and basil

These classic herbs combine to create an earthy, fragrant bouquet that elevates the chicken and rice to new heights.

• Salt and pepper

Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients, ensuring every component shines.

• Fresh parsley

A bright, herbaceous garnish that adds a pop of color and a refreshing finish just before serving.

HOW TO MAKE CREAMY HERB CHICKEN & BASMATI RICE

This step-by-step guide will walk you through transforming simple ingredients into a mouthwatering, restaurant-quality meal—all in one skillet. Follow these instructions for perfect results every time:

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, then set it aside to drain thoroughly. This ensures fluffy, separated grains.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, then sear them in the hot oil for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

3. Reduce heat to medium, add the butter to the same skillet, and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent and tender. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for an additional minute to prevent burning.

4. Stir in the dried thyme, rosemary, and basil, letting them toast for about 30 seconds until the herbs release their fragrance and flavor.

5. Add the drained rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat each grain with the herb-infused butter and oil mixture.

6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow to simmer gently.

7. Nestle the seared chicken breasts directly into the rice, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and let everything simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken registers 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer.

8. Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and create space in the rice. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring it through the rice until a creamy sauce forms.

9. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy herb sauce over each piece. Continue to warm through for another 5 minutes over low heat, ensuring the chicken soaks up the sauce.

10. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the entire dish before serving for a vibrant burst of color and brightness.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CREAMY HERB CHICKEN & BASMATI RICE

Once your skillet masterpiece is ready, it’s time to pair it with simple accompaniments and delightful sides that enhance its flavors. A thoughtful presentation can elevate this humble one-pan meal into a memorable dinner experience, whether it’s a weeknight family feast or a casual gathering with friends. Below are some of my favorite serving ideas to complement the creamy, herby goodness of this dish:

• Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a light lemon vinaigrette to cut through the rich creaminess and add a refreshing crunch.
• Pair with roasted seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini—simply drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender for extra color and nutrition.
• Enjoy alongside warm crusty bread or garlic bread, perfect for sopping up every last drop of the velvety sauce and making sure none of that creamy goodness goes to waste.
• Complement with a chilled glass of dry white wine—think Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio—to balance the herbaceous cream sauce and bring a lively brightness to each bite.

HOW TO STORE CREAMY HERB CHICKEN & BASMATI RICE

Storing this dish properly ensures you can enjoy its comforting flavors long after the initial meal. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or saving leftovers for a quick lunch, these storage tips will help maintain freshness, texture, and taste:

• Refrigerator Storage: Transfer the cooled dish to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Make sure the sauce has cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
• Freezer Method: Portion the cooled chicken and rice into freezer-safe bags or containers, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating on the Stovetop: Gently warm portions in a nonstick skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess and prevent the rice from drying out.
• Microwave Reheating: Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each cycle until hot.

CONCLUSION

This article has guided you through preparing a delicious, beginner-friendly Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice that’s guaranteed to become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation. From understanding the key ingredients and their roles to following a step-by-step cooking method, you now have all the tools necessary to create a satisfying one-pan meal bursting with flavor. The combination of tender, golden-browned chicken, aromatic herbs, and silky cream sauce on a bed of fragrant basmati rice makes for a comforting plate that’s simple to cook and delightful to share. You can easily print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder or bookmark it for those busy nights when you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing dinner idea.

Feel free to experiment with substitutions like coconut milk for a dairy-free twist or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish. You’ll also find a handy FAQ section below to address common questions and troubleshooting tips. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out—leave your comments, questions, or any feedback you have. Whether you’re a home cook seeking an easy dinner or hosting friends for a laid-back lunch, this Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice will deliver comfort, flavor, and simplicity in every bite.

Print Recipe

Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice

Author: Emily Roberts Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 35 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 55 mins

Calories: 600

Description

Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice offers a delightful blend of tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and rich cream, creating a comforting plate full of flavor and warmth.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 cups basmati rice

• 3 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Begin by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside to drain.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and sear them in the skillet, about 5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the dried thyme, rosemary, and basil. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the rice, and stir well to coat the grains with the aromatic mixture.
6. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
7. Nestle the chicken breasts over the rice, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
8. Once cooked, remove the chicken again to make space, then pour in the heavy cream, stirring through the rice to create the creamy sauce.
9. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the cream and herb mixture. Warm everything through for another 5 minutes.
10. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.

Note

• You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• For a more robust flavor, marinate the chicken in herbs and olive oil for an hour before cooking.
• Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can elevate the dish with a refreshing tang.
• Customize with seasonal vegetables for added nutrition and texture.
• This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a chilled glass of white wine.

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