Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe for its balance of savory and creamy flavors. The chicken is seasoned with a perfect mix of herbs and spices, creating a flavorful base. The cream sauce, made with cream cheese and milk (or buttermilk for a tangier twist), coats the chicken beautifully. Served over fluffy basmati rice, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, providing both comfort and richness without being overly heavy.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed chilies (adjust for heat preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon basil
• 1/4 teaspoon ground fennel
• 3 tablespoons cream cheese
• 1 cup milk or buttermilk (for a richer, tangier flavor)
• 1 cup basmati rice (uncooked)
• Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Rice: Begin by cooking the basmati rice according to the package instructions. Set it aside to keep warm.
2. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with paprika, cumin, oregano, crushed chilies, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Cook the Chicken: In a large pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for about 6-8 minutes, until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
4. Prepare the Pan: If there is excess fat in the pan, drain it off, but leave the browned bits and a little butter for flavor.
5. Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add the remaining butter. If using, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add thyme, rosemary, basil, and fennel, and cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
6. Create the Creamy Base: Add the cream cheese to the pan and stir until melted. Gradually pour in the milk or buttermilk, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. Add more milk if the sauce is too thick.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the pan, stirring to coat it in the creamy herb sauce. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors.
8. Serve: Spoon the creamy herb chicken over the basmati rice and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas. Marinate them with the same spices for flavor.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more nutrition.
• Alternative Grains: Serve over quinoa, couscous, or brown rice for a different texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently after thawing.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice?

Yes, jasmine or long-grain rice can be used instead of basmati. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can substitute cream cheese with heavy cream or a mixture of milk and a thickener like cornstarch.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer to thicken, or mix cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving, adding a little milk to maintain the creaminess.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free, as long as all the ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust the cooking time.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, the amount of crushed chilies can be adjusted to suit your desired spice level.

Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Yes, adding vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers will enhance the flavor and nutrition.

How can I make the sauce creamier?

To make the sauce even creamier, you can add more cream cheese or use full-fat milk.

How long will the leftovers last?

Leftovers will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare yet full of rich, savory flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will impress with its creamy texture and aromatic seasonings. Enjoy this satisfying meal any time you’re in the mood for something cozy and delicious.

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