This Creamy Basil Chicken is a delightful dinner option! Juicy chicken cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with fresh basil makes for a tasty meal that everyone will love.
Trust me, the aroma of basil while cooking is just heavenly! I like to serve it over pasta or rice to soak up all that yummy sauce. It’s easy to make and so satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect here, as they cook quickly and absorb flavors nicely. If you’re looking for alternatives, you could opt for chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Heavy Cream: This makes the dish rich and creamy. If you’re watching calories, try using half-and-half or a plant-based cream like coconut cream. Keep in mind, this may slightly change the flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor. If fresh isn’t available, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried basil, but fresh is definitely preferred for its aromatic qualities.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a salty and nutty flavor. Pecorino Romano is a great alternative, although it’s more pungent. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a touch of heat. If you prefer less spice, feel free to skip them or substitute with black pepper.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but here are some tips to ensure it’s juicy!
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; give each piece some space for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer—chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices before slicing or serving.
Delicious Creamy Basil Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black 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
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Creamy Basil Chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will help enhance the flavor during cooking.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant (but be careful not to burn it!).
4. Add the Liquid Ingredients:
Next, pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen any delicious browned bits. This adds extra flavor to your sauce!
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
6. Incorporate the Basil:
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves. This will give your dish that amazing basil freshness!
7. Combine and Heat Through:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over the top. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to warm everything through.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Creamy Basil Chicken is now ready to serve! Dish it out hot over a bed of pasta, rice, or alongside some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce.
Enjoy your creamy basil chicken dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure it’s completely thawed first! Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat dry with paper towels to avoid extra moisture in the pan.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Simply store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce gently before adding the chicken back in to warm it up.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What Should I Serve with Creamy Basil Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
