This Creamy Basil Chicken is a delightful way to enjoy dinner. Juicy chicken breasts are cooked in a rich and creamy sauce made with fresh basil and garlic. Yum!
I love how quick this dish comes together. Serve it with some rice or pasta, and you’ve got a relaxing dinner ready in no time. Seriously, your taste buds will thank you! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide a tender texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, thighs can be juicier, or you could use tofu for a vegetarian option!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free twist.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor. If you don’t have it, dried basil can work in a pinch but use 1/3 of the amount as it’s more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth. Don’t have any? Try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free substitute.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken to perfection can be tricky, but here are some tips to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to get a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain even heat.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe, juicy chicken.
- Let chicken rest after cooking. This helps retain moisture before slicing.
What’s the Best Way to Make the Sauce Creamy?
To achieve a luscious sauce, follow these steps:
- Start with sautéing garlic in butter for that rich flavor base.
- Always scrape the skillet after adding broth to mix in the browned bits—that’s where a lot of flavor is!
- Allow the cream to simmer gently, making sure not to boil it. This prevents curdling and keeps the sauce smooth.
With these tips, you’ll create a delicious Creamy Basil Chicken that everyone will love!
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
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Creamy Basil Chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of around 25 minutes. A quick and delicious meal for any weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step adds flavor from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts 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. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, stirring until fragrant (but be careful not to burn it!).
4. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth, using a spatula to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Let this mixture simmer for about 2 minutes to build flavor.
5. Creamy Goodness:
Next, reduce the heat to medium. Slowly add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
6. Stir in the Basil:
Now it’s time for the fresh basil! Add the chopped basil leaves to the sauce, stirring them in to release their wonderful flavor.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce generously over the top. Allow everything to simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, just to heat through and meld all those delicious flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to dig in! Serve the creamy basil chicken hot, garnished with extra basil if you like. Pair it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQ for Creamy Basil Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it beforehand in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even cooking. If you’re in a hurry, you can also submerge the sealed chicken in cold water for a quick thaw.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream. For the Parmesan cheese, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the creamy texture and flavor!
What Should I Serve with Creamy Basil Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or quinoa, which absorb the delicious sauce. Alternatively, you can serve it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a lighter option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy.
