If you're on the hunt for a satisfying yet straightforward dinner that promises to impress, look no further than this Savory Herb Chicken Delight. It combines fresh herbs with juicy chicken to create a dish that's both flavorful and comforting. Let's dive into what makes this recipe a must-try!
The star of the show is, of course, the chicken breasts. Opt for boneless and skinless for ease of cooking and serving. Olive oil acts as the base for our herb marinade, helping to infuse the chicken with flavor and keep it moist. The combination of fresh thyme and rosemary brings an earthy, aromatic profile that pairs beautifully with garlic. A sprinkle of salt and black pepper rounds out the seasoning. Lemon juice adds a touch of acidity that brightens the dish, while chicken broth enhances the savory notes. Finally, heavy cream is used to create a rich, velvety sauce that ties everything together.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside buttery mashed potatoes or a light, fluffy rice pilaf. The creamy sauce is perfect for drizzling over these sides as well.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives you a perfect opportunity to gather and prep your ingredients. In a small bowl, mix together your olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper. This is your flavor-packed marinade. Rub this fragrant mixture generously over the chicken breasts, ensuring they're well-coated.
Next, grab a large oven-safe skillet. Heat it over medium-high heat until it's hot enough for a satisfying sizzle. Sear the chicken breasts, letting them develop a golden crust on each side, roughly 3-4 minutes per side should do the trick. Once seared, pour in the lemon juice and chicken broth around the chicken, and then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
Let the chicken bake for about 20-25 minutes. You're aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they're perfectly cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a separate plate. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
Return the skillet to the stove over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, just until it thickens slightly. Serve the chicken with this luscious sauce drizzled over the top.