This Easy Creamy Basil Chicken is a simple dish you’ll love! Juicy chicken breasts are smothered in a creamy sauce with fresh basil that adds a burst of flavor.
Not to mention, it cooks up quickly—perfect for those busy weeknights. I like to serve it with rice or pasta, so I can soak up all that delicious sauce! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they cook quickly. If you prefer dark meat, you can use thighs instead, just extend the cooking time slightly for tenderness.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice flavor, but you can use butter or any other cooking oil you have on hand. Butter will give a slightly richer taste.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano works as a nice substitute. Nutritional yeast is an excellent dairy-free option that adds a cheesy flavor.
Fresh Basil: While fresh basil is the star here, you can use dried basil in a pinch (use about 1 teaspoon). However, fresh has the best flavor!
How Do You Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky, but with the right technique, it’s easy! Here’s how to ensure your chicken is juicy and tender:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps achieve a nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If needed, cook in batches to keep the heat consistent.
- Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy!
By following these tips, your chicken will turn out perfectly every time!
Easy Creamy Basil Chicken Breasts
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 chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes for cooking. In total, you should have this delicious creamy basil chicken ready to eat in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This is important because it adds flavor to the chicken!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them until they are golden brown and cooked through—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on how thick the breasts are. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. It’s important not to burn the garlic, so keep an eye on it!
4. Adding Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—these add incredible flavor! Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Creamy Mixture:
Lower the heat to medium and add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat!). Stir the mixture until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens a little.
6. Adding Basil:
Now, stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves. Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. It should be creamy and flavorful!
7. Combining Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of that delicious sauce over each piece. Let them simmer together for a couple of minutes to absorb all those amazing flavors.
8. Serving:
Finally, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your creamy basil chicken immediately with sides like pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables to soak up all that sauce!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your flavorful, creamy, and fresh basil-infused chicken!
FAQ About Easy Creamy Basil Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw them completely first! The best way to thaw is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can submerge them in cold water in a sealed plastic bag for a quicker thaw.
What Substitutes Can I Use for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut milk or a plant-based cream; both can give you a creamy texture without the dairy!
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, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time, then refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat and combine for a quick dinner!
