Name: Sour Cream Chicken with Herb-Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups water; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet satisfying. It delivers a balance of creamy and herby flavors without being heavy. The entire dish comes together in under an hour and uses pantry staples, making it a reliable go-to for busy evenings. Plus, it’s a one-pan chicken dish paired with homemade rice, so clean-up is easy.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups water
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

directions

I start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Then, I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden. Once done, I transfer the chicken to a plate.

In the same skillet, I reduce the heat to medium, add the chopped onion, and cook it for 3–4 minutes until soft. Then I add the garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds.

I pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom, and then stir in the sour cream, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Once the sauce starts to gently simmer, I return the chicken to the skillet, spoon some sauce over the top, cover it, and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

Meanwhile, I bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. I add the rice and butter, reduce it to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15–18 minutes until tender. After fluffing the rice with a fork, I stir in the fresh parsley.

To serve, I plate the herb rice and place the creamy chicken on top, finishing with an extra sprinkle of parsley.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 520 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor. For a richer sauce, a splash of heavy cream works well too. I can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce to make it heartier. For a spicier twist, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too; I just cover the dish and heat it in 30-second intervals until warm.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

I check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer, or I slice into the thickest part to ensure there’s no pink.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, I sometimes use boneless thighs for more flavor and juiciness. I just adjust the cooking time slightly.

Is it okay to make the rice ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often make the rice in advance and reheat it with a splash of water before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

I can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a container for up to 2 months. However, I prefer to make the rice fresh.

What herbs can I use if I don’t have thyme or parsley?

I like using rosemary or basil as substitutes. Fresh or dried both work fine in this dish.

Conclusion

This Sour Cream Chicken with Herb-Rice is a deliciously creamy, herby, and comforting dish that I keep coming back to. It’s quick to make, easy to adapt, and always a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for busy nights or casual dinners with friends and family.

Sour Cream Chicken with Herb-Rice