This creamy basil chicken is a true treat! Tender chicken cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with fresh basil makes every bite delicious. It’s simple enough for any night of the week!
Cooking this dish always feels special, and I love serving it over pasta or rice. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Who knew creamy could be so easy? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for a quick cook. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using thighs for juiciness, or even tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich texture. If you want a lighter version, try using half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. It may change the flavor a bit, but still delicious!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce. For a non-dairy alternative, use nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute available at your local store.
Basil: Fresh basil is essential for flavor. If you don’t have it, try using dried basil or another herb like parsley, but the flavor will vary. No fresh? No problem!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Getting your sauce creamy and flavorful is key in this recipe. Start by sautéing garlic to build flavor. The next step is reducing the sauce to ensure it thickens nicely.
- After adding the cream and cheese, let the sauce simmer gently. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking.
- If it’s too thick, add more chicken broth a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Finishing with fresh basil at the end keeps the flavor bright and helps it stay vibrant!
With these tips and insights, your creamy basil chicken will turn out perfect every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamy Basil Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 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 (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
Total time to make this creamy basil chicken is about 30 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits that are stuck to the bottom. This adds extra flavor to your sauce. Then, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it has thickened slightly.
5. Add the Basil:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil. This adds a lovely, bright flavor to the dish. Mix well to combine.
6. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Allow everything to simmer for another 2-3 minutes so the chicken can warm through and soak up some of the sauce’s flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once ready, garnish your dish with extra fresh basil leaves. Serve it hot over pasta, rice, or alongside steamed vegetables. Your creamy basil chicken is now ready to be enjoyed!
This recipe is simple, delicious, and packed with flavor! Happy cooking! 🍽️
FAQ for Creamy Basil Chicken
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat, or even whole pieces of chicken with skin. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as needed until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute with half-and-half, coconut milk for a dairy-free option, or even sour cream mixed with a little milk to achieve a similar consistency. Just keep an eye on the flavor, as these alternatives will change it slightly!
How Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store each component in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, just reheat the chicken and sauce gently on the stove until warmed through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.
