If you’re craving a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Creamy Herb Chicken Over Basmati Rice Recipe. Tender chicken breasts bathed in a lush, herb-infused cream sauce paired with fluffy, fragrant basmati rice make for a dish that’s both elegant and homey. Each bite offers a perfect balance of rich flavors and fresh herbal notes, making it ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests.

Creamy Herb Chicken Over Basmati Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for straightforward, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a memorable dish. Each one plays a crucial role, from the fragrant basmati rice that adds a delicate texture to the fresh herbs which brighten the creamy sauce beautifully.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein, providing a juicy and tender base for the creamy sauce.
1 cup basmati rice: This long-grain rice cooks up fluffy and aromatic, making it the perfect accompaniment.
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken to a golden perfection.
1 medium onion, chopped: Offers a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Lends a warm, savory pungency that enhances every bite.
1 cup heavy cream: The heart of the sauce, delivering luscious creaminess that coats the chicken.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Provides a savory base and helps balance the richness of the cream.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped: Adds a delicate, earthy herb flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Brings a fresh, vibrant note and brightens the dish.
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped: Infuses a fragrant piney aroma that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional): Adds a refreshing brightness to cut through the richness.
Zest of 1 lemon (optional): Perfect for garnishing and adding a subtle citrus zing.
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional): Elevate the presentation and add a burst of herbal freshness.

How to Make Creamy Herb Chicken Over Basmati Rice Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by cooking your basmati rice according to the package instructions. This step sets the stage for your dish, as perfectly cooked rice will soak up the creamy herb sauce beautifully. Once done, fluff it with a fork and set aside to keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, then cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust and are cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest—it’ll stay juicy and tender this way.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them just until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This builds a flavorful base for your sauce. Next, pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer untouched for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Creamy Herb Magic

Now, stir in the heavy cream along with the fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Let the sauce gently simmer for 3-5 minutes so it thickens and those herbal flavors meld together beautifully, transforming your sauce into a silky masterpiece.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Slice the rested chicken breasts, then return them to the skillet. Coat the chicken slices generously with your creamy herb sauce, allowing everything to warm through together for another 2-3 minutes. This step guarantees each bite is packed with flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Herb Chicken Over Basmati Rice Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh lemon zest and herbs can elevate this dish visually and taste-wise. The bright citrus zest cuts through the creaminess, while fresh parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and a fragrant finish that makes the dish even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Herb Chicken Over Basmati Rice Recipe is quite the star on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like asparagus or broccoli. Their freshness and crunch balance the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the chicken sliced elegantly over a mound of rice on individual plates, garnished with a sprig of fresh herbs and a wedge of lemon. Alternatively, serve family-style in a large shallow bowl so everyone can help themselves to all the creamy, herby goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This recipe keeps well, and flavors actually deepen overnight, making enjoyably satisfying next-day meals.

Freezing

You can freeze the creamy herb chicken and rice separately to maintain texture. The chicken in sauce freezes well for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to avoid separation of the cream.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce slowly over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. A splash of chicken broth or cream can help revive the sauce’s creamy texture. Microwave reheating works too but be sure to cover the dish and stir halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture for your creamy herb chicken over basmati rice recipe.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt or half-and-half can be used, but add them at the end of cooking and gently heat to avoid curdling.

How do I keep the rice fluffy and separate?

Rinse basmati rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Use the right water-to-rice ratio, and avoid stirring the rice while it cooks for fluffy, separate grains.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but reduce the amount by half since dried herbs are more potent. Add them earlier in the cooking process so they can bloom in the sauce.

Is lemon juice necessary in the recipe?

Lemon juice is optional but highly recommended as it brightens the rich sauce, balancing the creamy flavors with a hint of fresh acidity.

Final Thoughts

There is something so delightfully comforting about this Creamy Herb Chicken Over Basmati Rice Recipe. It’s the perfect combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic rice that makes every meal feel special. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share the joy of its effortless elegance around your table.

Creamy Herb Chicken Over Basmati Rice Recipe

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4.1 from 26 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

A comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender boneless chicken breasts cooked in a creamy herb sauce, served over fragrant basmati rice. This recipe combines fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley with garlic and onion in a rich heavy cream sauce, making for a perfect weeknight meal that is simple yet elegant.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken & Rice

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup basmati rice
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce & Herbs

1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the rice: In a medium pot, prepare the basmati rice according to the package instructions, usually by rinsing, then simmering in water until fluffy. Once cooked, set aside and keep warm.
Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the sauce: Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add cream and herbs: Stir in the heavy cream, fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley into the skillet. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally to combine the flavors well.
Combine chicken and sauce: Slice the cooked chicken breasts and return the slices to the skillet. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the creamy herb sauce and let it simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through and meld the flavors.
Serve: Serve the creamy herb chicken slices over a bed of prepared basmati rice. Garnish with lemon zest and fresh herbs if using, and drizzle with lemon juice for added brightness if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken breasts in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the best flavor.
You can prepare the rice ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.
Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially if using salted butter or broth.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American