Delicious Creamy Herb Chicken with Green Beans & Steamed Rice

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

After a long week, there s nothing quite as comforting as a home-cooked meal that brings both flavor and warmth. One evening, I found myself craving something rich and creamy, yet light enough to welcome the beginning of spring. That s when I whipped up this delightful Creamy Herb Chicken with Green Beans & Steamed Rice. The aroma of garlic and fresh herbs filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits.

With tender chicken bathed in a smooth sauce, vibrant green beans, and fluffy rice, this dish seamlessly combines simplicity and sophistication. Whether you re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner for two, this easy recipe promises to impress without the fuss. Plus, you ll love how quickly it comes together, allowing you to savor every bite while leaving the fast food behind. Let s dive into the steps to create this crowd-pleaser for your next meal!

Why is Creamy Herb Chicken with Green Beans & Steamed Rice a Must-Try?

Satisfying Comfort Food: This dish wraps you in a cozy embrace with rich, creamy flavors that delight your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests arrive.
Versatile Ingredients: Tailor it to your taste by adding your favorite herbs or veggies, ensuring everyone enjoys it.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Friends and family will rave about this dish, making it a star at any gathering.
Complete Meal: With protein, greens, and carbs all in one plate, it delivers a balanced meal that keeps everyone satisfied.
For more delicious ideas like this, don t miss our easy chicken recipes.

Creamy Herb Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Pounding them ensures even cooking for perfectly tender pieces.
Olive oil A light coating helps to achieve a beautiful golden brown crust.
Salt Essential for enhancing the flavor of the chicken.
Black pepper Freshly cracked adds a lovely kick.
Garlic powder Offers depth without the effort of chopping!
Onion powder A quick way to boost the savory notes.
Dried Italian seasoning This blend elevates the dish with aromatic herbs.

For the Sauce
Garlic, minced Fresh garlic infuses the dish with irresistible fragrance.
Butter Adds rich creaminess that elevates the sauce.
Chicken broth Use low-sodium for a healthier option while improving flavor.
Heavy cream For that luxurious, smooth finish (half-and-half can be a lighter alternative).
Dijon mustard (optional) A touch of acidity that enriches the sauce s depth.
Parmesan cheese Grated for a lovely umami taste that blends beautifully.
Fresh parsley Provides a bright, fresh touch to balance richness.
Fresh basil or thyme (optional) Add as a lively herbaceous note if desired.
Lemon juice Brightens flavors and adds a refreshing zing.

For the Green Beans and Rice
Green beans, trimmed Crisp-tender beans that complement the creaminess of the chicken.
Salt for blanching water Important for preserving vibrant color and flavor.
White rice (jasmine or basmati) Fluffy rice absorbs the sauce perfectly in this creamy herb chicken with green beans & steamed rice.
Water or broth for cooking rice Broth will add extra flavor to your rice, enhancing the entire dish.

This ingredient list ensures you have everything you need to create a comforting meal that will delight and satisfy. Enjoy!

How to Make Creamy Herb Chicken with Green Beans & Steamed Rice

1. Rinse the rice: Begin by rinsing the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch for fluffier rice. In a small saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 18 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Once done, turn off the heat and allow it to rest, still covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

2. Blanch green beans: In a pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 3 4 minutes until they turn bright green and are tender-crisp. Drain the beans and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside.

3. Cook the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5 6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer it to a plate and cover loosely with foil to rest.

4. Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any delicious brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for 2 3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Add the lemon juice and chopped herbs, adjusting the salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine and serve: Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the creamy sauce over each piece. Add the green beans to warm them through in the sauce. Serve with a scoop of fluffy steamed rice, ensuring to ladle extra creamy sauce over everything for that heavenly touch.

Optional: Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Creamy Herb Chicken with Green Beans and Rice?

After you ve savored this delightful meal, why not take your dining experience to the next level with some perfect pairings?

• Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunch and buttery flavor of garlic bread make it a perfect companion to soak up the creamy sauce.

• Refreshing Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.

• Roasted Baby Potatoes: These crispy, golden bites add a hearty texture and earthy flavor that compliments the creamy dish beautifully.

• Steamed Asparagus: A pop of color and delicate flavor from asparagus brings in fresh flavors, balancing the meal while enhancing its visual appeal.

• Lemonade Sangria: A chilled glass of this fruity drink adds a zesty sparkle and is the ideal refreshment on a warm evening.

• Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a silky chocolate mousse that creates a luxurious finish to your dining experience.

Each of these delightful pairings brings its unique touch to your table, ensuring your Creamy Herb Chicken with Green Beans and Rice shines even brighter!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Creamy Herb Chicken with Green Beans & Steamed Rice ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time on busy nights! You can season and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Blanch the green beans and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rice can also be cooked ahead and refrigerated, ready to reheat before serving. To maintain their quality, keep the sauce separate until you re ready to enjoy the meal. When it s time to eat, simply warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet, reheat the rice, and toss in the beans for a quick, satisfying dinner that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Creamy Herb Chicken

Properly Pound Chicken: Ensure even cooking by pounding chicken to an even thickness, preventing dry edges while keeping the center juicy.

Don t Rush the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer gently after adding cream; this enhances flavors and prevents curdling for a perfect creamy herb chicken with green beans & steamed rice.

Blanching Green Beans: Quickly blanch the beans for the perfect bright green color and crispness, then rinse immediately to stop the cooking process.

Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed; remember, the right balance makes all the difference!

Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, basil, or thyme elevates the dish; don t hesitate to swap or mix herbs according to your preferences!

Creamy Herb Chicken Variations

There s so much potential for creativity in this comforting dish, so let your taste buds lead the way!

• Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and nutritional yeast for a creamy, vegan alternative that still feels indulgent.

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a delightful heat that complements the richness.

• Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh dill or cilantro for a refreshing twist in flavor, perfectly balancing the dish s creaminess.

• Vegetable Boost: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor, turning every bite into something exciting.

• Whole Grain Rice: Try using brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a nutty flavor and added nutrition to this creamy herb chicken with green beans & steamed rice.

• Lemon Herb: For a zesty kick, add the zest of a lemon along with the juice, brightening the entire dish with a fresh citrus aroma.

• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted almonds or sesame seeds on top to enhance both flavor and texture, adding a satisfying crunch.

• Cheesy Variations: In place of Parmesan, use crumbled feta or sliced mozzarella for a unique flavor twist and creamy finish.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to make this dish uniquely yours!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Herb Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftover creamy herb chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures it stays fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it with the date for easy reference.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce s creamy texture.

Rice Storage: If you have leftover rice, keep it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a little water to fluff it up again.

Creamy Herb Chicken with Green Beans and Rice Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs based on your preference. Look for pieces that are firm and pink, avoiding those with dark spots or an off smell. If you re opting for breast, pounding them to an even thickness helps ensure they cook evenly without drying out.

What are the best storage methods for leftover creamy herb chicken?
Very! Store any leftover creamy herb chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the dish as fresh as possible, avoid mixing in the rice and green beans; store those separately. For long-term preservation, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, and be sure to label it with the date.

Can I freeze the creamy herb chicken?
Certainly! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Transfer the chicken along with its sauce to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it s well-sealed. When you re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream for that silky texture.

How can I prevent the sauce from curdling while cooking?
Great question! To avoid curdling, always reduce the heat after adding the cream and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2 3 minutes. Make sure to add the cream gradually, and stirring continuously will help maintain a smooth consistency. Taste and adjust your seasonings before serving for optimal flavor.

What if I have dietary restrictions regarding this dish?
Of course! For dairy intolerance, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. If you have gluten allergies, ensure your chicken broth and any additional flavorings are gluten-free. Always double-check ingredient labels to be safe, and feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables to accommodate restrictions!

How long will the cooked rice stay fresh in the refrigerator?
Very good to know! Cooked rice can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a little water to fluff it up, ensuring it retains that lovely texture. This will help it heat evenly and prevent it from becoming dry.