Food Recipes Creamy Herb Chicken

Name: Food Recipes Creamy Herb Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Highlighted under: Homegrown Comfort

I love making creamy herb chicken because it’s an effortless way to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, herb-infused cream sauce that elevates the flavors beautifully. The best part is that it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Trust me, once you try this dish, you'll want to keep it on rotation!

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-27T12:29:39.328Z

When I first attempted this creamy herb chicken, I was unsure how the flavors would mesh. To my surprise, the combination of fresh herbs with the creaminess of the sauce created an irresistible dish. I used a blend of thyme, rosemary, and parsley, and I think the key to its success is letting the herbs infuse the cream before adding the chicken.

One of my favorite tips is to deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine after cooking the chicken. This not only lifts all those beautiful browned bits but also adds depth to the sauce. It's a trick I've learned that truly transforms the dish, making it taste gourmet without the fuss!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy, rich sauce that pairs perfectly with chicken
Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile beautifully
Quick and easy, perfect for weeknight dinners

Perfecting the Cream Sauce

The cream sauce is what truly elevates this dish, providing a silky texture that envelops the chicken beautifully. When making the sauce, ensure the heat is brought down to a simmer after adding the chicken broth; this prevents the cream from curdling. The goal is to achieve a light bubble rather than a vigorous boil, which can change the sauce's consistency.

Incorporating fresh herbs not only adds vibrant flavors but also brightens up the creamy richness of the sauce. Each herb contributes unique notes: thyme offers an earthy depth, rosemary brings a fragrant touch, and parsley gives a fresh finish. Chopping the herbs finely allows them to infuse the sauce effectively, releasing their essential oils.

Tips for Chicken Perfectly Cooked

Cooking the chicken breasts to the perfect doneness is crucial for a tender bite. I recommend using an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If your chicken seems to be browning too quickly on the outside while remaining undercooked inside, consider adjusting your heat to medium instead of medium-high.

Resting the chicken after cooking is another essential step. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that every bite remains moist. You can cover the chicken loosely with foil and let it rest for about 5 minutes while the sauce simmers. This technique not only improves texture but also enhances flavor.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Herb Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the chopped herbs and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and let it cook together for 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute any of the herbs with your favorites or what you have on hand
dill or basil works well too!

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers of this creamy herb chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat to avoid curdling the cream sauce. You can also add a splash of milk or chicken broth while reheating to restore the sauce's creaminess.

If you're looking to freeze the dish, consider freezing the chicken and sauce separately. The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months, while the sauce retains its quality for about 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This creamy herb chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides; consider serving it over a bed of fragrant jasmine rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. Steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad add a nice contrast and balance to the richness of the dish.

For a different twist, try swapping the herbs based on your preference or seasonal availability. Basil and dill provide a lighter flavor, while tarragon can add a sophisticated touch. If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt to maintain creaminess while reducing fat content.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

→ What can I serve with creamy herb chicken?

It pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce in advance and simply reheat it with the chicken before serving.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Absolutely! Just ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free, and you're all set.