Grilled Chicken with Creamy Herb Sauce Rice & Green Beans
If you’re looking for a delicious and gratifying meal that strikes the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent, look no further than this Epic Grilled Chicken with Creamy Herb Sauce, Rice & Green Beans. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 20 minutes, this dish is not only simple to prepare but also packs a flavorful punch that will leave your taste buds dancing. Each serving contains approximately 550 calories, making it a well-rounded choice for dinner that won’t derail your healthy eating plan.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a marvel in its simplicity and flavor. Grilled chicken is always a winner, but topped with a creamy herb sauce, it elevates the dish to a whole new level. The earthy flavors of the herbs meld perfectly with the juicy chicken, resulting in each bite bursting with deliciousness. The side of tender green beans and a fluffy serving of rice are the ideal accompaniments, turning this plate into a complete meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s versatile — you can easily modify the ingredients based on what you have on hand, ensuring you can make this remarkable meal any time.
Pro Tips for Making Epic Grilled Chicken with Creamy Herb Sauce, Rice & Green Beans
1. **Marinate the Chicken**: For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This enhances moisture and infuses flavors.
2. **Use Fresh Herbs**: Fresh herbs significantly enhance the taste of the creamy herb sauce. Depending on availability, use parsley, basil, or dill for vibrant flavors.
3. **Grill to Perfection**: Ensure your grill is preheated. Place the chicken breasts on high heat for that beautiful sear, then lower to medium to finish cooking without drying out the meat.
4. **Don’t Overcook**: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F (74°C). This will keep it juicy and tender.
5. **Customize the Sauce**: Experiment with different herbs or add a hint of lemon or garlic to the sauce to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
For the Epic Grilled Chicken with Creamy Herb Sauce, Rice & Green Beans, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup of rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup of green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or any of your favorite herbs)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Step 1: Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. While the rice is cooking, you can prepare the chicken and green beans.
Step 2: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You may also add minced garlic for extra flavor.
Step 3: Place the chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 6–7 minutes on one side, or until you see grill marks. Flip and grill for an additional 6–7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: While the chicken is cooking, steam or blanch the green beans in boiling water for about 4-5 minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain and toss with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 5: In a small bowl, mix together the heavy cream, chopped herbs (parsley and basil), and minced garlic. This will be your creamy herb sauce. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
Step 6: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 7: To serve, place the rice on a plate, top it with sliced chicken, drizzle the creamy herb sauce over the chicken, and add green beans to the side. Enjoy!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
While fresh chicken breasts are preferable, frozen chicken can be used. Make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking.
Can I substitute the rice with other grains?
Absolutely! This dish can be made with quinoa, farro, or even couscous if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the grain you choose.
How can I make the herb sauce dairy-free?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative like cashew cream to make this sauce dairy-free.
What can I serve with this dish besides rice and green beans?
You could pair it with a garden salad, roasted vegetables, or a baked potato for a more substantial meal.
Can the chicken be cooked ahead of time?
Yes, you can grill the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
This Epic Grilled Chicken with Creamy Herb Sauce, Rice & Green Beans is the quintessential weeknight meal that you and your loved ones will savor. It’s healthy, packed with flavor, and best of all, quick to put together. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a meal prepping day, this recipe checks all the boxes for a delicious and satisfying experience. Don’t hesitate to try it out, or make it your own by experimenting with different herbs and side options!
