Creamy Herb Chicken with Rice: Your New Go-To Weeknight Dinner

Looking for a wholesome, comforting meal that’s full of flavor but still light? This creamy herb chicken with rice is the perfect answer. Juicy, tender chicken is simmered in a rich, herb-infused sauce and served over a bed of fluffy rice, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

With a perfect balance of lean protein, creamy texture, and fragrant herbs, this meal is easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for a special occasion. Plus, it comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean easy cleanup.
Rich & Creamy Without the Guilt: Made with lighter ingredients for a balanced meal.
Flavor-Packed: Fresh herbs and a touch of garlic bring this dish to life.
Protein & Fiber-Rich: Keeps you full and satisfied.
Great for Meal Prep: Reheats beautifully for easy lunches or dinners.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin fillets
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Creamy Herb Sauce:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or light sour cream)
• ¼ cup low-fat milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
• 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh)
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Rice:

• 1 cup brown rice, cooked according to package instructions
• 2 cups steamed broccoli (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Season and Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken fillets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Make the Creamy Herb Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan.
3. Whisk in Greek yogurt, milk, thyme, parsley, and basil.
4. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
5. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.

Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, coating it in the creamy sauce. Simmer for 2 more minutes to let the flavors meld.
2. Serve the creamy herb chicken over cooked brown rice, with a side of steamed broccoli if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 320 | Protein: 35g | Carbs: 28g | Fat: 9g | Fiber: 3g

Tips for Success

• Use Lean Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep it light.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook just until done to keep it juicy.
• Greek Yogurt for Creaminess: A lighter alternative to heavy cream.
• Cornstarch Slurry for Thickness: Helps create a rich sauce without extra fat.
• Pair with Extra Veggies: Add spinach or mushrooms for more nutrients.

Why This Recipe Works

• One-Pan Convenience: Simple, minimal cleanup.
• Perfectly Balanced: Protein, fiber, and healthy fats in one dish.
• Creamy Without Being Heavy: A lighter take on classic comfort food.
• Great for Meal Prep: Stays fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

This creamy herb chicken with rice is the perfect mix of comfort and health. The tender chicken, rich yet light herb sauce, and hearty rice create a meal that’s flavorful, satisfying, and easy to prepare. Whether for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!