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Herb-Enriched Creamy Chicken over Fragrant Basmati Rice

This dish features tender chicken cooked in a fragrant herb-infused sauce, served atop fluffy basmati rice that absorbs the flavorful juices. The creamy sauce and fresh herbs create a vibrant, textured dish with appealing visual and aromatic qualities.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Fusion
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 small boneless chicken breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup basmati rice rinsed until water runs clear
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or other cooking oil
  • 1 cup chicken broth for cooking rice and sauce
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream adds creaminess to the sauce
  • Fresh mixed herbs (parsley, thyme, basil) chopped, added at the end
  • to taste salt and pepper adjust according to preference

Equipment

  • Large skillet or pan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Lid or foil for covering

Method
 

  1. Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly until the water runs clear, then set aside.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden—about 30 seconds.
  3. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through—about 8 minutes.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Stir to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavorful liquid.
  5. While the chicken simmers, cook the rice separately. Place the rinsed rice in a pot, add 2 cups of water, a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover tightly, and simmer until the rice is fluffy and tender, about 15 minutes.
  6. Remove the cooked chicken from heat and stir in the heavy cream. Mix well until the sauce becomes creamy and slightly thickened—about 3 minutes.
  7. Fold in the chopped fresh herbs into the sauce, allowing their bright aroma to infuse the creamy mixture.
  8. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and transfer the fragrant rice to serving bowls or plates.
  9. Spoon the herb-enriched creamy chicken generously over the rice, ensuring each serving has plenty of flavorful sauce and tender chicken.
  10. Finish with additional chopped herbs or a squeeze of lemon for brightness if desired, then serve hot.

Notes

Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or add a touch of lemon zest for extra brightness. For an even richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan at the end.