This creamy basil chicken is a delightful and comforting dish! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with fresh basil, making every bite a treat for your taste buds.
Honestly, what’s better than chicken smothered in a creamy sauce? I love serving it over pasta or rice to soak up all that deliciousness. It’s an easy win for dinner! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, giving a juicy and tender result. If you need a substitute, boneless thighs work well too; they stay moist and flavorful through cooking.
Heavy Cream: The cream is what makes this dish rich and smooth. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just be mindful that the flavor may change slightly.
Fresh Basil: The star of this dish! Fresh basil really elevates the flavor. If you don’t have fresh basil, use 1 teaspoon of dried basil, but add it earlier in the cooking process to allow it to release its aromas.
Parmesan Cheese: For a tangy kick, grated Parmesan is a great choice. If you’re out, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Chicken Cook?
Cooking chicken perfectly is key for this recipe. Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and tender:
- Start with chicken at room temperature. Take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve a nice golden brown color.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This helps keep it juicy, as the juices redistribute.
By following these tips and focusing on key ingredients, you’ll create a creamy basil chicken that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Creamy Basil Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and 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
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy basil chicken recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delicious option for dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor as they cook.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Garlic:
In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan. As it simmers, use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. This adds great flavor to your sauce!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Stir in Fresh Basil:
Add the chopped fresh basil leaves to the sauce. Give it a good stir to combine everything together!
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Now, return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy basil sauce over the chicken and let it cook together for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy basil chicken hot, paired with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. If you like, garnish with extra basil or Parmesan on top for an added touch!
Enjoy your creamy basil chicken dinner!
FAQs for Creamy Basil Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and will result in even juicier meat. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind that this may change the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the creamy sauce ahead of time and cook the chicken when you’re ready to serve. Just keep the sauce in the fridge, and it should be good for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce on the stove before adding the cooked chicken back in!
