Description
Silky herb-infused Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice promises a Mediterranean-inspired culinary journey with fragrant spices and tender chicken. Rich layers of flavor blend seamlessly, inviting eager palates to savor each luxurious, comforting bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 large chicken breasts (or 4 small)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Liquids and Fats:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Basmati Rice foundation by thoroughly rinsing grains under cold water until liquid becomes transparent, eliminating excess starch.
- Transfer rice to a simmering pot with water, introducing salt and butter for enhanced flavor profile, covering and allowing gentle cooking for approximately 15 minutes at medium-low temperature.
- Remove rice from heat, keeping lid sealed for additional 5 minutes, then delicately separate grains using a fork to achieve fluffy texture.
- Season chicken thoroughly with aromatic spice blend including salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano, ensuring complete coverage.
- Warm skillet with olive oil and butter combination, maintaining medium heat to create ideal searing environment.
- Carefully place seasoned chicken into hot skillet, developing golden-brown exterior through 4-5 minute cooking on each side until protein reaches perfect doneness.
- Extract chicken from pan, reserving for subsequent integration with sauce.
- Introduce minced garlic to residual pan drippings, allowing brief 30-second aromatic release.
- Deglaze skillet with chicken broth, systematically lifting caramelized fragments from cooking surface.
- Incorporate heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, creating luxurious sauce base.
- Reduce sauce for 2 minutes, then integrate Parmesan cheese until smoothly melted.
- Reintroduce seared chicken to sauce, allowing 2-3 minute gentle simmer for flavor melding.
- Plate chicken atop prepared basmati rice, generously draping with herbed cream sauce.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately alongside roasted vegetables or crisp salad.
Notes
- Always rinse basmati rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy and separated grains that won’t become sticky during cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F, guaranteeing perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter, healthier version that still maintains a creamy texture.
- Experiment with different herb combinations like fresh rosemary or tarragon to customize the sauce’s flavor profile and add personal flair.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 462 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 564 mg
- Fat: 31 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg