This creamy basil chicken is a wonderful dish that’s perfect for dinner. Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich and tasty sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, and cream. Yum!
Honestly, this dish makes my kitchen smell amazing! I like to serve it over rice or pasta, and it feels like a fancy meal, but it’s super easy to whip up. Give it a try! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you prefer, thighs are a great substitute for extra flavor and tenderness.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich and creamy texture. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option, or use coconut cream if you’re looking for a dairy-free choice.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for bright flavor. If you can’t find fresh, use about 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil instead, but fresh is always best in this dish!
Parmesan Cheese: For that cheesy goodness! If Parmesan isn’t available, Pecorino Romano or even a good quality pre-shredded Italian blend can work too.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Creamy Sauce?
The secret to a smooth, creamy sauce is in the cooking technique. After cooking the chicken, make sure to scrape up any browned bits left in the skillet; they add flavor!
- After sautéing the garlic for just a minute, quickly add the chicken broth and cream. Stir continuously to combine.
- Once the mixture simmers, slowly add the Parmesan cheese. This keeps the cheese from clumping.
- Cooking briefly over low heat helps the sauce thicken, so don’t rush this step! Aim for a velvety consistency.
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: cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy basil chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and seasoning the chicken, 15-20 minutes for cooking, and the rest is just letting those flavors come together. It’s a quick and delicious meal for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This step is crucial because it adds flavor to the chicken before cooking!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and no longer pink in the middle. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together and let it come to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Cheese and Basil:
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens slightly. Next, add in the chopped fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. This is where the magic happens—the basil gives the dish its wonderful, aromatic flavor!
5. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy basil sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to warm through. If you want, you can garnish the dish with extra basil leaves and the halved cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your creamy basil chicken warm over rice, pasta, or alongside your favorite vegetables. Enjoy this delicious meal that’s sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a delicious alternative that can add extra flavor and moisture to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of minutes longer to cook through compared to breasts.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the cheese, look for vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for added flavor without dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If you can’t find fresh basil, you can use dried basil as a substitute. Use about 1-2 teaspoons, but keep in mind that fresh basil offers a brighter flavor. You can also try other herbs like parsley or oregano for a different twist!
