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Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice

As Seen In Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Recipes.

Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Bite-sized chicken pieces are seasoned with paprika, cumin, and herbs, then cooked to perfection in a rich and creamy sauce made with cream cheese, milk, and aromatic spices. Served over fluffy basmati rice, this dish is a delightful blend of creamy, savory, and aromatic flavors. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s an easy one-pan meal that’s sure to impress!
Sarah Recipes
Recipe by Sarah Sarah
Fresh from the Kitchen: Fri, 21 Feb 2025 11:30:39 GMT
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A bowl of rice with chicken and vegetables. Save for Later
A bowl of rice with chicken and vegetables. | recipesaddicts.com

A perfect creamy herb chicken with basmati rice combines tender chicken pieces with a velvety, herb-infused sauce served over fragrant rice. Each bite delivers waves of aromatic spices and fresh herbs in a rich cream sauce that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. It's like having your favorite comfort food dressed up for a special occasion, yet simple enough for any weeknight.

Last week, I served this at a casual dinner party, and my friend who "doesn't do cream sauces" asked for seconds. The way the herbs infuse the sauce while the rice absorbs all those flavors creates something truly magical.

Essential Ingredients

  • Quality Chicken: Breasts or thighs work beautifully
  • Fresh Herbs: Parsley and thyme make a difference
  • Basmati Rice: Worth seeking out for proper texture
  • Good Quality Cream Cheese: Creates perfect sauce
  • Fresh Spices: Toast briefly for best flavor
  • Real Butter: No substitutes here

Detailed Instructions

Perfect the Rice:
Rinse until water runs clear. Use proper liquid ratio. Let steam properly when done. Keep lid on while resting.
Master the Chicken:
Season meat thoroughly. Brown in batches for color. Don't overcrowd the pan. Remove and rest while making sauce.
Create the Sauce:
Start with aromatics. Add cream cheese gradually. Scrape up browned bits. Let flavors develop slowly.
Build the Flavors:
Layer herbs thoughtfully. Balance spices carefully. Adjust seasoning gradually. Return chicken to warm through.
Finish with Style:
Serve over hot rice. Garnish with fresh herbs. Add final seasoning. Serve immediately.
A bowl of rice with chicken and vegetables. Save for Later
A bowl of rice with chicken and vegetables. | recipesaddicts.com

This recipe evolved from my love of both comfort food and fresh herbs. After experimenting with different spice combinations and sauce consistencies, this version achieves that perfect balance of richness and brightness.

Making it Your Own

Through countless dinners, I've learned that success lies in the details - the quality of your herbs, the patience in your browning, and most importantly, the development of your sauce. I particularly love how this recipe welcomes variations - sometimes I'll add mushrooms, other times I'll include spinach at the end.

A plate of food with chicken and rice. Save for Later
A plate of food with chicken and rice. | recipesaddicts.com

After perfecting this recipe, I've found it's more than just dinner - it's comfort food elevated to something special. Whether served for a family meal or dinner party, it never fails to impress. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic rice, and herb-infused sauce proves that sometimes the best recipes come from enhancing simple ingredients with fresh herbs and careful technique.

Recipe Tips & FAQs

→ Can I use buttermilk instead of milk?
Yes, buttermilk adds a tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spices.
→ Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can use jasmine rice, brown rice, or any other variety you prefer.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and reheat before serving.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
Serve with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
→ Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, increase the amount of crushed chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice

Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice is a comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken in a rich cream sauce served over fluffy basmati rice. Perfect for any occasion!

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cooking Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
45 Minutes
Recipe by Sarah: Sarah

Recipe Type: Meal Prep

Skill Level: Moderate

Style of Cooking: American

Makes: 4 Serves (4 servings)

Dietary Notes: Gluten-Free

What You'll Need

→ For the Chicken

01 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 1 teaspoon paprika
03 ½ teaspoon ground cumin
04 ½ teaspoon oregano
05 ¼ teaspoon crushed chilies (adjust for heat preference)
06 Salt and pepper, to taste
07 2 tablespoons butter, divided
08 ½ teaspoon thyme
09 ½ teaspoon rosemary
10 ½ teaspoon basil
11 ¼ teaspoon ground fennel

→ For the Sauce

12 3 tablespoons cream cheese
13 1 cup milk or buttermilk (for a richer, tangier flavor)

→ For the Rice

14 1 cup basmati rice (uncooked)

→ Optional

15 1 clove garlic, minced

Let's Cook!

Step 01

Cook the basmati rice according to the package instructions. Once done, set it aside to keep warm.

Step 02

In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with paprika, ground cumin, oregano, crushed chilies, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 03

In a large pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 04

If there’s excess fat or liquid in the pan, drain some off, but leave behind any browned bits and a little of the remaining butter and juices for flavor.

Step 05

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. If using, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add thyme, rosemary, basil, and ground fennel, and cook for 1 minute to release their flavors.

Step 06

Add the cream cheese to the pan and stir until melted and blended with the spices. Slowly pour in the milk or buttermilk, stirring constantly to create a smooth and creamy sauce. Add more milk or buttermilk if the sauce is too thick.

Step 07

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stirring to coat it in the creamy herb sauce. Simmer for 3-5 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 08

Spoon the creamy herb chicken over the cooked basmati rice and enjoy!

Cook's Notes

  1. If your rice has cooled, add it to the pan with the chicken to soak up the sauce flavors.
  2. Use buttermilk for a tangier sauce that pairs wonderfully with the spices.
  3. Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking the chicken to ensure even browning.
  4. Adjust the amount of crushed chilies to control the spice level.

Kitchen Tools Needed

  • Large pan
  • Bowl for mixing
  • Spoon for stirring

Allergy Notes

Always check ingredients carefully for allergens. When in doubt, please consult your healthcare provider.
  • Dairy (butter, cream cheese, milk/buttermilk)

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutritional values are carefully calculated estimates. For precise dietary needs, please consult a nutritionist.
  • Calories: 205
  • Total Fat: 11 g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Protein: 7 g