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Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice

Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice: A Cozy Family Favorite

This Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is a comforting, family-friendly dish perfect for busy nights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Use avocado oil for a healthier option.
  • 4 pieces Chicken Breasts/Thighs Choose skinless for a leaner meal.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Substitute with white pepper for a milder taste.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be a delightful substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Opt for finely diced fresh onion for an extra zing.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika gives it a deeper flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Swap with your favorite individual herbs like oregano or thyme.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Use olive oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely diced ensures even cooking.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh minced brings an aromatic punch.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream/Half & Half Substitute with coconut milk for a lighter dairy-free alternative.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Consider vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Use fresh herbs if available—just triple the amount.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary Use fresh herbs if available—just triple the amount.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Use fresh herbs if available—just triple the amount.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast offers a vegan-friendly alternative.
For the Rice
  • 1 cup Basmati Rice Don't forget to rinse it for perfection.
For Garnish
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley Cilantro or basil can be delightful substitutes.
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest Feel free to omit if you’re out.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Pat dry your chicken and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side.
  2. Reduce heat to medium-low, add butter to the skillet. Once melted, sauté diced onion for 3-4 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  3. Add rinsed basmati rice to the skillet, stirring to coat. Pour in chicken broth and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
  4. Add heavy cream, thyme, rosemary, and oregano to the skillet, mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and create a creamy sauce.
  5. Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet and cover. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
  6. Remove from heat, let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with parsley and lemon zest before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 21gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 22gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption. Rinse basmati rice before cooking to prevent stickiness. Let the dish sit for a few minutes to enhance flavors.

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