This Creamy Basil Chicken is a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Juicy chicken is cooked in a creamy sauce with fresh basil, making every bite flavorful!
You won’t believe how simple it is! I love serving it over pasta or rice to soak up that yummy sauce. Trust me, your family will ask for seconds—it’s just that good! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are best for quick cooking. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor, or even turkey cutlets!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like coconut milk, though it may change the flavor a bit.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brings a fragrant and vibrant taste. If unavailable, you can use dried basil, but use only about 1-2 teaspoons, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a wonderful nuttiness. If you’d like a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or use a vegan parmesan substitute.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken for This Recipe?
Cooking chicken well is key to making it juicy and flavorful. Start by seasoning it with salt and pepper. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the olive oil. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until it’s golden brown. Always check that it’s fully cooked; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest after cooking. This will keep it juicy when you slice it.
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy—this is especially useful for beginners!
- You can also marinate the chicken for 30 minutes beforehand with lemon juice and a bit of olive oil for extra flavor.
How to Make Creamy Basil Chicken
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 heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep work and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying dish perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavors of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through (the internal temperature should be 165°F or 75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine and scraping up any nice browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This adds extra flavor! Lower the heat to medium, then add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the mixture continuously until the sauce thickens slightly, which will take about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy basil sauce over them. Allow the chicken to warm back up in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a side of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious creamy basil sauce!
Enjoy your delicious, creamy basil chicken! It’s sure to impress at the dinner table. 😊
FAQ About Creamy Basil Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide additional flavor and are juicier than chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly since thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute it with dried basil. Use about 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil instead of the cup of fresh, as dried herbs are more concentrated. It’s best to add them earlier in the cooking process to allow their flavors to bloom.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
For a dairy-free version, you can use coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream alternative in place of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast can be used instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. Just keep in mind that these substitutions will slightly change the flavor profile.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the creamy basil sauce ahead of time! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat gently on the stove and add freshly cooked chicken to warm it all together.
