This Creamy Basil Chicken Dinner is a tasty delight! Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with fresh basil. Perfect for a cozy family meal!
I can’t get enough of that fresh basil flavor! Serve it over some rice or pasta for a complete meal that makes everyone smile. Easy and yummy—what more could you want?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their convenience and quick cooking. If you prefer, thighs can be a great substitute, adding more flavor and moisture.
Heavy Cream: This creates a rich, creamy sauce. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk if dairy-free. Both will give a slightly different taste but still delicious!
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for that aromatic flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil, but the taste will be less vibrant. An alternative herb like parsley or spinach works too!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy richness. Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan twist) can replace it effectively.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
To get that perfect creamy sauce, focus on your simmering technique. Start by properly sautéing the garlic; this enriches the sauce’s flavor. Then, add your broth and cream.
- Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer; this helps in thickening.
- Whisk in the cheese gradually—this ensures it melts smoothly into the sauce.
- Don’t rush! Allowing 3-5 minutes for the sauce to thicken gives it the right consistency.
Finally, your fresh basil should go in last, keeping its bright flavor intact. Enjoy your creamy basil chicken dinner!
How to Make Creamy Basil Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 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 red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
For Serving:
- Cooked pasta or rice
Time Needed:
This Creamy Basil Chicken Dinner recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the chicken, while the sauce comes together in about 10-15 minutes, making it a quick and delicious weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This adds flavor right at the beginning!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Make sure to remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside once done.
3. Making the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but be sure not to burn it! Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together to combine smoothly.
4. Adding Flavor:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly—this makes it creamy and delicious!
5. Finishing Touches:
Next, add the chopped fresh basil leaves to the sauce and give it a good stir. This will add a wonderful fresh flavor to the dish!
6. Combining Everything:
Finally, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the creamy basil sauce over them. Let it simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing all those lovely flavors to blend.
7. Serving Your Dish:
Serve the creamy basil chicken over your choice of cooked pasta or rice. You can garnish with extra fresh basil for a lovely presentation. Enjoy your comforting, flavorful meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely first! The best way to do this is by placing the chicken in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Certainly! You can prepare everything except for the fresh basil and combine the sauce and chicken before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove and stir in the basil just before serving for that fresh flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk. However, keep in mind that using coconut milk will slightly change the flavor, adding a subtle coconut taste.
