Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice—a one-pot wonder that’s rich, flavorful, and easy to make. With tender chicken, fragrant rice, and a creamy herb-infused sauce, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Get ready to fall in love with every bite!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Rice:
- 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For Garnish:
-
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken dry and season it evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. - Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside. - Sauté Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. - Toast the Rice:
Stir the rinsed basmati rice into the skillet, mixing it with the garlic and onion. Toast for 1 minute to enhance its nutty flavor. - Add Liquid and Herbs:
Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, dried thyme, and oregano. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. - Nestle the Chicken:
Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture. Cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. - Finish with Parmesan:
Once cooked, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the dish and stir gently to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with optional lemon wedges for added brightness.
Notes
- Rice Preparation: Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy grains.
- Chicken Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Substitutions: Use half-and-half or milk for a lighter sauce, and try coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: International