This Creamy Basil Chicken is a wonderful dish that’s both easy and delicious! It features tender chicken cooked in a rich creamy sauce flavored with fresh basil—just heavenly!
You can whip this up in no time, and it makes a great dinner option. Serve it over pasta or rice, and watch everyone swoon! I usually add a side of veggies for extra color. 🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they cook quickly and are tender. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs work well too!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or even coconut milk, but the flavor will change slightly.
Fresh Basil: Using fresh basil really elevates the flavor. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil can work in a pinch. Just use about a tablespoon instead, but add it earlier in cooking for better flavor integration.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option can work well too!
How Do I Achieve the Right Sauce Consistency?
Getting that creamy sauce just right can be a bit tricky! Here’s how to do it:
- After adding the cream and cheese, keep stirring to ensure even melting and prevent burning.
- Cook over medium heat; high heat might cause the cream to separate.
- Let it simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until thickened. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash more chicken broth or some water to thin it out.
- Always taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your liking for the best flavor.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious creamy basil chicken that’s full of flavor and comfort! Enjoy cooking! 😊
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 (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes in total. This includes 10 minutes for prep work and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that comes together easily!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This will boost the flavor of your dish right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and let them cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
In the same skillet (you want all those tasty bits left behind!), add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Keep an eye on it—garlic can burn quickly!
4. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth while scraping up any brown bits from the skillet. This will add flavor to your sauce!
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning (if using). Cook while stirring frequently for about 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce starts to thicken slightly.
6. Add the Fresh Basil:
Once the sauce is thickened, add the chopped fresh basil leaves and stir well, allowing the basil’s flavor to infuse into the sauce.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy basil sauce over the top, and let everything heat together for another 2-3 minutes to meld those delicious flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After cooking, serve your creamy basil chicken warm, garnished with extra basil leaves if you like. It pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a side of steamed vegetables. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ about Creamy Basil Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great for this recipe and will provide a little more richness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time! Let it cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove and add the cooked chicken to warm through!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free option like coconut cream. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly!
