This creamy basil chicken is a treat for your taste buds! With tender chicken cooked in a rich sauce made from fresh basil and cream, it’s a dinner winner.
What’s great is how quick it is to whip up! I love serving it over pasta or rice for a complete meal that feels fancy but is super easy to make. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here for their ease of cooking. You can use chicken thighs instead if you prefer darker meat, as they can stay juicier.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, you can swap it for half-and-half or a plant-based cream if you’re vegan.
Fresh Basil: Fresh is best for flavor! But if it’s not available, dried basil works in a pinch. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil for this recipe.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice cheesy flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a similar cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly?
Getting chicken just right can be tricky! Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and perfectly cooked:
- Season both sides generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Cook over medium-high heat to get a nice golden crust—a good sear locks in flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer! Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove it from heat once it gets close, as it will keep cooking off the stove.
By following these tips, you’ll have deliciously cooked chicken that’s ready to shine in your creamy basil sauce!
Creamy Basil Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy basil chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but delicious enough to impress guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of your chicken as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice golden brown color and for the chicken to be cooked through. Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add butter. Once it melts, stir in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a spoon to release all the tasty browned bits stuck to the pan. This adds deeper flavor to your sauce.
5. Create the Creamy Mixture:
Next, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens up a bit.
6. Add Fresh Basil:
Add the chopped fresh basil (plus Italian seasoning if you’re using it) to the sauce and stir well. This adds a lovely aromatic flavor!
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Now it’s time to return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken and let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will allow the chicken to soak in all the flavors from the sauce.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving. Enjoy your creamy basil chicken hot, over pasta, rice, or with your favorite steamed vegetables!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to be juicier, making them perfect for this dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through completely.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. For the Parmesan cheese, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave while stirring to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the garlic for maximum impact!
