Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice Recipe | Flavorful One-Pan Comfort Meal

Introduction

Are you in search of a comforting, flavorful meal that can be prepared in just one pan? Look no further! This Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice recipe delivers a delightful combination of tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and fluffy basmati rice, all cooked together in a single dish. Imagine coming home after a long day to the enticing aroma of this dish wafting through your kitchen. This recipe not only satisfies your hunger but also brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to become a family favorite!

Ingredients List

To prepare this creamy herb chicken and basmati rice dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein source, tender and juicy.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall taste.

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 cup chicken broth: Provides moisture and flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream: For a rich, creamy texture.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: An aromatic herb that complements chicken.
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds a fragrant touch.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley: For freshness.

For the Rice:

• 1 cup basmati rice: Fluffy and fragrant, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• 2 cups water: To cook the rice.
• 1 bay leaf: Adds subtle flavor to the rice.

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish.
• Lemon wedges: For serving.

Substitutions:

• Chicken thighs: Can be used instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
• Coconut milk: Can replace heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
• Quinoa or brown rice: Can substitute basmati rice for a healthier grain option.

Timing

This delicious one-pan meal takes about 40 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Here’s the breakdown:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts.
3. Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add chicken broth, scraping the bottom to deglaze and incorporate all the flavorful bits.
2. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

1. Add the basmati rice and water to the skillet, along with the bay leaf. Stir to combine.
2. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture.
3. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once the rice is cooked, remove the bay leaf and fluff the rice with a fork.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (assuming 4 servings):

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 130mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 1g

Insights:

• This meal is rich in protein, making it great for muscle repair and growth.
• The use of herbs adds not only flavor but also various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make this dish a bit healthier, consider these alternatives:

• Use low-fat cream instead of heavy cream to reduce calories and fat.
• Incorporate vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the dish for added nutrients.
• Use brown rice instead of basmati for more fiber and a nuttier flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider these serving suggestions:

• Pair with a side salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken and rice.
• Serve with crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Add roasted vegetables: Roasted asparagus or broccoli can add color and nutrition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not seasoning the chicken properly: Ensure you season both sides generously for maximum flavor.
2. Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from becoming dry. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
3. Skipping the deglazing step: Scraping the skillet after cooking the chicken helps incorporate all the delicious flavors into the sauce.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your creamy herb chicken and basmati rice fresh:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Conclusion

This Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice recipe is a delightful one-pan meal that combines ease and flavor, making it perfect for any night of the week. With its rich creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a go-to comfort food in your household. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

A1: It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking. If using frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.

Q2: Can I make this dish dairy-free?

A2: Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

Q3: What can I do with leftovers?

A3: Leftovers can be repurposed into a delicious chicken and rice soup by adding broth and additional vegetables.

Q4: How can I add more flavor to the rice?

A4: Cook the rice in chicken broth instead of water for added flavor, or add spices like cumin or paprika.

Q5: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

A5: Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice Recipe | Flavorful One-Pan Comfort Meal

Print

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein source, tender and juicy.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall taste.
• For the Creamy Sauce:
• 1 cup chicken broth: Provides moisture and flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream: For a rich, creamy texture.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: An aromatic herb that complements chicken.
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds a fragrant touch.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley: For freshness.
• For the Rice:
• 1 cup basmati rice: Fluffy and fragrant, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• 2 cups water: To cook the rice.
• 1 bay leaf: Adds subtle flavor to the rice.
• Optional Garnishes:
• Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish.
• Lemon wedges: For serving.
• Substitutions:
• Chicken thighs: Can be used instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
• Coconut milk: Can replace heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
• Quinoa or brown rice: Can substitute basmati rice for a healthier grain option.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts.
3. Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add chicken broth, scraping the bottom to deglaze and incorporate all the flavorful bits.
2. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

1. Add the basmati rice and water to the skillet, along with the bay leaf. Stir to combine.
2. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture.
3. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once the rice is cooked, remove the bay leaf and fluff the rice with a fork.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.