This Creamy Basil Chicken is a wonderful weeknight meal! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked in a rich sauce made with creamy goodness and fresh basil. So flavorful and simple!
What I love about this dish is how quick it is to whip up. Just sauté the chicken, mix in the sauce, and you’re ready to go. Dinner’s done in no time, plus it impresses everyone! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for a tender bite. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets or even tofu for a vegetarian twist work well.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich texture, but you can use half-and-half for a lighter version. If you want to keep it dairy-free, try coconut cream instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds depth of flavor. You could substitute with pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free cheese option.
Fresh Basil: Fresh is best for flavor! If you’re in a pinch, dried basil can be used in smaller amounts, about a teaspoon, but it won’t have the same vibrant taste.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly is key for this dish. Here are some tips:
- Even Thickness: If your chicken breasts are uneven, pound them gently to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t Rush: Allow the chicken to brown well on one side before flipping it. This creates flavor. Use a meat thermometer; 165°F (75°C) is what you’re aiming for.
- Resting Time: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy inside before cutting.
Using these tips will ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and flavorful every time!
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
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon butter
Optional Garnish:
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend 10 minutes prepping and seasoning the chicken, and roughly 20 minutes cooking everything together into a delicious dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Make sure they’re well-coated so the flavor seeps in!
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 or until they’re golden brown and cooked all the way through. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Prepare the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, and use your spatula to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. This adds flavor! Lower the heat to medium, then mix in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add Fresh Basil:
Now, stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves. This will add a lovely, aromatic flavor to your sauce.
6. Combine Chicken with the Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to warm through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your creamy basil chicken with extra fresh basil leaves and optional cherry tomatoes for a pop of color. Serve it hot with your preferred side, such as pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Enjoy your delightful Creamy Basil Chicken dinner! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a bit juicier and can add more flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you’re looking to cut calories, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream. Additionally, reducing the amount of cheese or using a lower-fat cheese can help lighten the dish while still keeping it creamy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Can I Use Dried Basil Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use dried basil if fresh isn’t available! Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil, but add it earlier in the cooking process to allow its flavor to develop in the sauce.
