This creamy basil chicken is a warm and cozy meal that brings comfort to your dinner table. Juicy chicken is smothered in a rich basil sauce that’s bursting with flavor!
Honestly, this dish smells so good while cooking; you might just want to dance in the kitchen! 💃 I love serving it with rice to soak up that delicious sauce—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep things simple and cook quickly. You could also use thighs for a richer flavor or even pork chops if you prefer.
Heavy Cream: This adds a rich texture to the sauce. If you’re looking for lighter options, try half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil really shines in this dish. If you don’t have it, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil instead. Just remember, dried herbs are more potent, so adjust to your liking!
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese gives a nice, cheesy flavor. Grated Pecorino Romano makes a tasty substitute, or for a vegan option, try nutritional yeast.
Chicken Broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works well too. If you want a vegetarian dish, vegetable broth is a great swap!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but here’s a simple method to ensure tender and juicy results:
- Start with even thickness. If necessary, pound the chicken breasts to about 1 inch thick for even cooking.
- Medium-high heat is key! This seals in moisture. Don’t crowd the pan; give each piece space to cook evenly.
- Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
How to Make Creamy Basil Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the 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 crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy basil chicken will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner, with just a little time to create a wonderful dish that tastes gourmet!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This will help flavor the chicken while it cooks. Don’t be shy—seasoning is key!
2. Cook 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—look for an internal temperature of 165°F. When done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Mixture:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Prepare the Sauce:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and scrape any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the skillet—it adds amazing flavor! Let this simmer for about 2 minutes.
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Reduce the heat to medium-low, and then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens a bit. It should look creamy and smooth! If it’s too thick, you can add a splash more chicken broth.
6. Stir in the Basil:
Next, add the chopped fresh basil and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the sauce. Stir everything together until well combined. The fresh basil will help brighten up the flavor!
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy basil sauce over each piece. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the chicken to soak up the flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your creamy basil chicken hot! You can garnish with extra basil leaves for a pop of color. Enjoy it over rice, pasta, or with a piece of crusty bread to soak up that amazing sauce!
FAQ for Creamy Basil Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and remain moist during cooking. Just make sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F as well!
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even use Greek yogurt, but note that this may change the texture slightly. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk!
What Should I Serve with Creamy Basil Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or even quinoa. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, serve it over steamed vegetables or zoodles (zucchini noodles)!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
