Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is a comforting, all-in-one meal that brings together tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and fluffy basmati rice in a creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves a hearty and simple dinner packed with flavor and a touch of creaminess. The herbs add a fresh, aromatic touch that brightens up the whole plate.
I really enjoy making this recipe because it all cooks in one pan, which means less time cleaning up and more time to relax. I like to use a mix of my favorite herbs like thyme, parsley, and a little garlic to make the sauce feel fresh and cozy at the same time. The creamy sauce is just the right balance—not too heavy but rich enough to make every bite feel special.
My favorite way to serve this dish is with a simple green salad or steamed veggies on the side, so the creamy chicken and rice stay the star of the meal. It’s also an easy recipe to warm up the next day, which makes it a great option for leftovers. Whenever I make this, it always feels like a little comfort hug on a plate, and I know everyone will love it as much as I do.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Basmati Rice: This rice keeps its fluffy, separate grains when cooked. If you don’t have basmati, jasmine or long-grain rice are good substitutes. Just adjust cooking time slightly as needed.
Chicken: I like using boneless chicken thighs for juiciness, but breasts work well too. For a lighter option, swap chicken with turkey or tofu cubes.
Herbs: Thyme, parsley, and oregano give the dish a fresh, earthy flavor. Use dried if fresh aren’t available. Fresh herbs added at the end brighten the dish.
Cream: Heavy cream creates the rich sauce. You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version. Parmesan cheese boosts flavor but can be skipped or replaced with nutritional yeast.
How Do You Get the Rice Tender Without It Being Mushy?
Cooking rice perfectly is key! Use these simple steps to get fluffy rice cooked right in the pan with the chicken:
- Rinse rice well under cold water to remove excess starch—this helps keep grains separate.
- Add rice and broth after browning the chicken and onions for flavor layering.
- Bring the liquid to a boil, then lower to a gentle simmer and cover tightly with a lid to trap steam.
- Don’t stir the rice while it’s cooking, or you risk breaking grains and causing mushiness.
- After cooking, let the rice rest off the heat for 5 minutes with the lid on to finish steaming gently.
Following these steps helps you get tender, fluffy rice every time in this one-pan meal.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet with a lid – perfect for browning chicken and cooking rice all in one pan to save time and dishes.
- Spoon or spatula – helps you stir ingredients gently without breaking the rice grains.
- Measuring cups – for accurately measuring rice and liquids to get the texture just right.
- Knife and cutting board – to chop chicken, onions, and herbs quickly and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for diced turkey or tofu to change up the protein while keeping it hearty.
- Add mushrooms or spinach near the end of cooking for extra veggies and a boost of nutrients.
- Use smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a mild kick and smoky warmth.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a tangy twist that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice – A Comforting, Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups basmati rice, rinsed
- 2½ cups chicken broth or water
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped)
- 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped), plus extra for garnish
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra creaminess and flavor)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook, so plan for a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. The one-pan method keeps things easy and quick.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Saute the Aromatics and Chicken:
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until soft and clear, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half the herbs. Add the chicken to the pan and brown on all sides for 5-7 minutes. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked yet.
2. Add Rice and Simmer:
Pour in the rinsed basmati rice with the chicken and onions, gently mixing to combine. Then add the chicken broth or water and stir once. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed the liquid and is tender.
3. Finish with Cream and Herbs:
When the rice is ready, pour in the heavy cream and add the remaining herbs. Stir gently and cook uncovered for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken just a bit. If you like, mix in the Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor. Finish with lemon juice if you want a fresh, bright taste. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve garnished with fresh parsley.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method by sealing it in a bag and submerging in cold water. Pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the entire dish and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to refresh the sauce.
Can I Substitute the Basmati Rice?
Yes, jasmine or long-grain white rice are good alternatives. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as some rice types may require a bit more or less liquid and cooking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving, either on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
