This Creamy Basil Chicken is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken with a rich and smooth sauce full of fresh basil. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
Honestly, who wouldn’t love a dish that makes you feel like a chef? I like to serve it over rice or pasta—anything to soak up all that yummy sauce!
Making this is super simple! Just sauté the chicken, whip up the creamy sauce, and you’re ready to impress everyone at the table with your cooking skills!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. You can substitute with chicken thighs for extra juiciness if you prefer.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce that luscious texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut cream can work too.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds amazing flavor. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version are great alternatives.
Fresh Basil: Using fresh basil is crucial for that vibrant flavor. If you don’t have fresh, dried basil can be used, but start with less as it’s stronger.
How Do You Achieve the Perfectly Creamy Sauce?
Getting that silky sauce just right is key. Here’s how to make sure you nail it:
- Start by cooking the garlic in butter to release its flavor before adding liquids.
- When adding cream, lower the heat to avoid boiling; a gentle simmer keeps it creamy and smooth.
- Scraping browned bits from the skillet adds depth to the sauce, so don’t skip this step!
- Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to let it thicken. Stir frequently to prevent it from sticking.
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 (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and about 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet (don’t clean it—those browned bits add flavor!), add the butter and minced garlic. Cook it for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t burn!
4. Make the Sauce:
Next, stir in the chicken broth, using a spatula to scrape up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. This adds so much flavor to your sauce!
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Bring in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and optional Italian seasoning. Stir it all together well and let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. The creamy sauce will begin to come together beautifully!
6. Stir in Fresh Basil:
Now it’s time to introduce the chopped fresh basil into the sauce. Give it a good stir to mix everything together, letting those fresh flavors infuse the sauce.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet, spooning some of that delicious sauce over the top. Let them simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Creamy Basil Chicken hot, generously spooning extra sauce over the chicken. This dish goes wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up all that wonderful sauce. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Creamy Basil Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add an extra layer of juiciness and flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.
Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream for a lighter version. The sauce might not be as thick, but it will still taste delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help restore its creaminess.
Can I Use Dried Basil Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use dried basil as a substitute. Start with about 1 teaspoon of dried basil, as it’s more concentrated in flavor than fresh. Add it when you’re making the sauce and adjust to taste!
