This creamy basil chicken is a treat! Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich and dreamy sauce made with fresh basil and cream. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
I love how this dish can turn any ordinary evening into something special. Serve it over rice or pasta, and enjoy the tasty goodness! It’s simply delightful! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great for this recipe. If you want to mix things up, try using thighs for more flavor or even shrimp for a seafood twist.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Coconut cream can also work if you want a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can use Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that aromatic flavor. If you only have dried basil, use about one-third of the amount, but fresh is always best if you can find it!
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a nice kick. If you’re not a fan of garlic, you could reduce the amount or even leave it out entirely.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
One common challenge is ensuring the chicken is cooked perfectly without drying it out. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to get a good sear.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness. You can use a meat thermometer—165°F is the safe temperature!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
Following these steps will give you tender and juicy chicken every time!
How to Make Creamy Basil Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and 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 (reserve some for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy basil chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, making a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks. Set the seasoned chicken aside while you heat the oil.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook them until they are golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on their thickness. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Make the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Next, add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
5. Add the Basil and Butter:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil and butter into the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy basil sauce over them. Let everything heat through for a couple of minutes.
7. Serve:
Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Serve your creamy basil chicken hot over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread on the side. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful basil chicken! It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more flavor and juiciness to the dish. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F when fully cooked.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy cream alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream. You can use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Use Dried Basil Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use dried basil! Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil to replace the fresh basil. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so the flavor might vary slightly.
