Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal without the complicated cooking techniques? Get ready to meet your new favorite weeknight dinner hero - the Lazy Chicken in Herbed Sauce! This incredibly simple yet mind-blowingly delicious recipe transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a creamy, herb-infused masterpiece that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you'll create a dish so impressive, your family will think you've secretly hired a professional chef.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cream
- 2 tablespoons mixed herbs (thyme, rosemary, etc.)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even cooking.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents steaming.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and half of the mixed herbs. Press the herbs gently into the meat to help them adhere.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts into the pan.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms. This step helps lock in the flavor and creates a beautiful exterior.
- Pour the chicken broth and cream into the skillet around the chicken breasts. Sprinkle the remaining herbs over the liquid.
- Transfer the skillet directly into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Serve the chicken breasts with the herbed sauce spooned over the top. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or chopped parsley for added freshness.
Tips
- Pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning - this is the secret to achieving that gorgeous golden-brown sear.
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Invest in a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken every single time.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it incredibly juicy and tender.
- Don't rush the searing process - those beautiful brown edges develop flavor that makes this dish extraordinary.
- Choose a high-quality chicken broth and heavy cream for the richest sauce possible.
- If you want extra richness, add a tablespoon of butter to the sauce before baking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 476kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 50g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 255mg
