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Merry

Best Creamy Herb Chicken & Rice Recipe – Easy Weeknight Meal

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!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: International
Ingredients Method Notes

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

Method
 

Season the Chicken:
  1. Pat the chicken dry and season it evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Sear the Chicken:
  1. 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:
  1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Toast the Rice:
  1. 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:
  1. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, dried thyme, and oregano. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Nestle the Chicken:
  1. 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:
  1. 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.

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