This Creamy Basil Chicken is a quick and comforting dinner idea! Juicy chicken is cooked in a creamy sauce with fresh basil, making the perfect meal for any night.
It’s super tasty and feels like a restaurant dish right at home. I love serving it with rice or pasta to soak up that delicious sauce—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use turkey breasts, or for a vegetarian twist, consider using portobello mushrooms or tofu instead.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you’re dairy-free, you can try coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. For a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of cornstarch can work too!
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for that vibrant flavor. If you don’t have it, a teaspoon of dried basil can be used, but you’ll miss the fresh taste. Consider adding spinach for a different yet delicious twist.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice savory depth. Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can be good substitutes. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor!
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but here’s the best way to ensure it’s cooked just right and remains juicy. First, preheat the skillet properly before adding the chicken; this prevents sticking and helps achieve a golden brown color.
- Cook on medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices so it stays moist when you cut into it.
With these tips and your delicious ingredient choices, your creamy basil chicken will be a hit at dinner! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Creamy Basil Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: 1 small onion, finely chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Creamy Basil Chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time, making a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick dinner on a busy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, drop in the butter. If you’re using an onion, add it now and sauté until it turns translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom. This adds lots of flavor to your sauce!
5. Add Cream and Seasonings:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Incorporate the Basil:
Now, add the chopped fresh basil to the sauce and stir it well. The basil will brighten up the flavors!
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes to soak up the delicious flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is ready, garnish with any reserved basil leaves. Serve hot with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to mop up that creamy sauce. Enjoy your easy and delicious creamy basil chicken dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Creamy Basil Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to safely thaw chicken is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also use the cold water method: place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 1-2 hours until thawed.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt. You can also use less cheese or opt for a light cheese variety to reduce calories while still maintaining creaminess!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Leftover creamy basil chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth if it has thickened too much during storage.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers for added color and nutrients. You can also experiment with different herbs, like parsley or thyme, for a unique flavor twist!
