Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is a culinary embrace, inviting warmth and sophistication onto your dining table. This elegant dish stands apart, blending succulent chicken with a rich, velvety sauce that envelops fragrant basmati rice. Infused with fresh herbs, every bite delivers a luxurious texture and a bouquet of flavors, transforming a simple meal into an indulgent experience.
Why Make This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: Master the art of gourmet dining at home with minimal fuss.
- Minimal Ingredients: Each component shines, ensuring a harmonious balance of taste.
- Impressive Flavor: The combination of creamy sauce and aromatic herbs elevates everyday dining to an extraordinary occasion.
This dish transcends ordinary chicken and rice, offering a refined experience that delights the palate and garners admiration.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (preferably at room temperature)
- 1 cup basmati rice (rinsed and drained)
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping
- ¼ cup fresh herbs, finely chopped (such as parsley, basil, or thyme)
- Zest of 1 lemon
How to Make Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Sear for 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen.
- Build the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, deglazing the pan to capture all the flavors. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir well and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine with Rice: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Add the rinsed basmati rice, distributing it evenly throughout the creamy mixture.
- Cook Together: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow to simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender, absorbing the sauce.
- Finishing Touch: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh herbs and lemon zest, imparting a refreshing brightness to each serving.
How to Serve Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice
For an elegant presentation, serve the dish directly from the skillet, garnished with additional fresh herbs and lemon zest. Pair with a crisp green salad for a vibrant contrast. Use a stylish serving spoon to ensure each plate receives the luscious sauce along with the tender chicken and fluffy rice.
How to Store Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice
To maintain its delightful texture and flavor, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Allow the dish to cool completely before covering. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.
Tips to Make Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice
- Quality Ingredients: Utilize high-quality chicken and fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs based on seasonal availability or personal preference for varied flavor profiles.
- Cream Alternatives: Use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.
- Garnish Wisely: Toasted nuts or a sprinkle of feta can add a delightful crunch and richness.
Variation
Consider enhancing the dish with sautéed mushrooms or spinach stirred in before serving. These additions impart an earthy flavor and further elevate the dish’s sophistication. Alternatively, serve the chicken on a bed of sautéed greens for an exquisite twist.
FAQs
What can I serve with Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice?
Pair with a light, crisp salad or steamed seasonal vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then cook the rice and combine them just before serving.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Conclusion
Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice perfectly embodies a blend of simplicity and elegance that elevates everyday meals. As you discover the layers of flavor in each bite, you may find yourself inspired to customize this dish to your taste. Share your thoughts or variations in the comments below—how would you make this dish your own?
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Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
An elegant dish blending succulent chicken with a rich, velvety sauce over fragrant basmati rice, infused with fresh herbs for a luxurious texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh herbs, finely chopped (such as parsley, basil, or thyme)
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear for 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, then bring to a gentle simmer. Add heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, adding the rinsed basmati rice and distributing it throughout the sauce.
- Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 18–20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh herbs and lemon zest.
Notes
Serve directly from the skillet for an elegant presentation, and pair with a crisp green salad for a vibrant contrast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg