Description
Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice
This Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is the ultimate comfort dish that blends tender chicken pieces in a rich, herb-infused sauce over fluffy basmati rice. Inspired by classic American flavors, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. The spices like paprika, cumin, and rosemary add depth, while the creamy sauce brings everything together beautifully. A one-pan dish that will make your dinners stress-free and delicious!
2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp oregano
1/4 tsp crushed chilies
Salt & pepper to taste
2 tbsp butter, divided
1/2 tsp thyme
1/2 tsp rosemary
1/2 tsp basil
1/4 tsp ground fennel
3 tbsp cream cheese
1 cup milk or buttermilk
1 cup basmati rice
Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
Directions:
1. Cook basmati rice as per package instructions.
2. Season chicken with spices, then cook in butter until browned.
3. Prepare sauce by adding remaining butter, herbs, cream cheese, and milk to the same pan.
4. Combine chicken with sauce, let simmer, then serve over rice.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 205 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Begin by cooking 1 cup of basmati rice according to package instructions. Set aside, covered, to keep warm.
2. While the rice cooks, cut 2 chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, season the chicken evenly with 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp oregano, 1/4 tsp crushed chilies, and salt & pepper to taste.
3. Heat 1 tbsp of butter in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and melt the remaining 1 tbsp of butter. If using, add 1 minced garlic clove and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add 1/2 tsp thyme, 1/2 tsp rosemary, 1/2 tsp basil, and 1/4 tsp ground fennel to the pan. Stir for 1 minute to toast the herbs.
6. Lower the heat and add 3 tbsp of cream cheese and 1 cup of milk (or buttermilk). Whisk continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Return the cooked chicken (and any accumulated juices) to the pan, stirring to coat in the sauce. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is heated through.
8. Serve the creamy herb chicken immediately over a bed of the fluffy basmati rice.
Serving Suggestions
This rich dish pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides to balance the creamy sauce. Consider serving it with:
– A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette.
– Steamed green beans, asparagus, or broccoli.
– A side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the extra sauce.
– A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and freshness.
How-to Summary
Cook rice separately. Cube and season chicken with dry spices, then brown in butter. In the same pan, create a creamy sauce with butter, herbs, cream cheese, and milk. Simmer the chicken in the sauce until thickened, then serve over the cooked basmati rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well and offer a richer, more forgiving texture. Adjust cooking time as needed until fully cooked.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute the butter with olive oil, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and replace the milk with an unsweetened plant-based milk like oat or almond milk.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Full-fat sour cream or plain Greek yogurt are excellent substitutes. Add them at the very end off the heat to prevent curdling.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store chicken and rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
Can I cook the rice in the same pan?
For best results, cook the rice separately. This ensures perfect texture and prevents the rice from becoming overly starchy or soggy in the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Browning the chicken in batches prevents steaming and ensures a good sear.
- High Heat for the Sauce: Use medium-low heat when adding dairy to prevent the sauce from separating or curdling.
- Underseasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Using Pre-cooked/Rotisserie Chicken: While convenient, it won’t develop the same fond or absorb the spices as well as chicken cooked from raw.
Conclusion
This Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is a reliably delicious, one-pan meal that delivers maximum comfort with minimal fuss. The harmonious blend of aromatic herbs and rich, creamy sauce elevates simple ingredients into a dinner worthy of any night of the week. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.