This Creamy Basil Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines chicken with a rich and tasty sauce loaded with fresh basil. It’s quick to make, perfect for any night!
I love serving this with pasta or rice to soak up all that creamy goodness. Trust me, your taste buds will do a happy dance! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use chicken thighs, which are also flavorful and juicy.
Basil: Fresh basil gives the best flavor, but if you can’t find it, you can use dried basil. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about a third of what you would if using fresh.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream makes for a rich sauce, you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter option or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Both will change the flavor a bit, but it’ll still be creamy!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful cheesy flavor. If you’re out, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option!
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
To ensure your chicken is juicy and fully cooked, consider using a meat thermometer. Aim for a temperature of 165°F (75°C). Cooking time may vary depending on thickness, so cut into the chicken and check that the juices run clear, not pink.
- Consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Don’t rush the cooking! Searing them properly will lock in the juices.
What’s the Best Way to Add Flavor to My Sauce?
For a burst of flavor, sauté your garlic until fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. Adding chicken broth after that helps deglaze the pan, which means you’re lifting those tasty bits stuck on the bottom to flavor your sauce.
- Adjust the seasoning before adding the chicken back to the pan after tasting the sauce.
- Feel free to add additional herbs or spices to customize the flavor to your liking!
How to Make Creamy Basil Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It includes about 10 minutes to season and cook the chicken, and around 20 minutes to prepare the creamy sauce and combine everything together. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. This simple step ensures your chicken is flavorful right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side 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 Butter:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Allow it to melt, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it’s fragrant, which should take about 1 minute—be careful not to let it burn!
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the skillet to lift up any tasty bits stuck from cooking the chicken. This step adds even more flavor to your sauce!
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir well, and let the mixture simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add the Basil:
Now, stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves. This will give your sauce a fresh, vibrant flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chicken!
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through and allow the flavors to meld.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with extra fresh basil before serving. This dish is fantastic over pasta, rice, or with a side of your favorite vegetables. Dive in and enjoy your delicious creamy basil chicken dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Basil Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and can add even more moisture and flavor to your dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs might need a couple of extra minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil instead. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil for every cup of fresh basil. Add it during the sauce-making step to allow the flavors to infuse properly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat before serving. Just note that the sauce may thicken, so you might want to add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.
How Should I 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 microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
