This Creamy Basil Chicken is a tasty dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy sauce bursting with fresh basil flavor. It’s easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner!
The best part? You can have dinner ready in just about 30 minutes! I love serving it over pasta or rice for a complete meal—it’s simply delightful! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are great for even cooking. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor. For a lighter option, try using turkey breast instead.
Heavy Cream: This creates a rich sauce, but you can substitute half-and-half or coconut cream for a lower-fat option. Just keep in mind it may be less rich.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives the best flavor! If you’re out, feel free to use Pecorino Romano, or even nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.
Basil: Fresh basil is key here, but if it’s not in season, dried basil works too. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil if substituting.
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds great flavor. If you don’t have it, mix oregano, thyme, and rosemary as an alternative.
How Can You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be a challenge, but a few simple steps help. Start with evenly thick chicken breasts—this ensures they cook at the same rate.
- Heat the oil until it shimmers in the pan before adding the chicken. This helps in getting a nice golden crust.
- Cook on medium-high heat and avoid turning the chicken too early; give it time to brown properly for flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer! Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Following these tips will give you juicy and flavorful chicken every time!
How to Make Creamy Basil Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and 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 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a slight kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Creamy Basil Chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This helps enhance the flavor of the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, take the chicken out and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Prepare the Sauce:
Next, stir in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits—this adds flavor to your sauce. Then, pour in the heavy cream, add the grated Parmesan cheese, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Cook this mixture for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken up.
5. Add the Basil:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves and add optional red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Mix everything well to combine.
6. Return the Chicken:
Now, take the cooked chicken breasts and return them to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken and let it simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to meld all the flavors.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Creamy Basil Chicken is ready to serve! Pour it over a bed of pasta or rice, or pair it with your favorite vegetables. Garnish with a bit of extra basil for that fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option and tend to be juicier due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just note that using a thinner milk might make the sauce a bit less creamy.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to avoid uneven heating.
Can I Freeze Creamy Basil Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the creamy basil chicken! Just make sure it’s completely cooled, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
