This creamy basil chicken dish is a tasty treat for dinner! It’s made with tender chicken cooked in a rich sauce with fresh basil, garlic, and a pinch of parmesan. Yum!
I love how quick this meal comes together. In just a short time, you’ve got something special that makes you feel like a chef at home. Perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish since they stay tender. If you’re looking for something different, you could use chicken thighs for extra flavor, or even turkey breasts!
Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the sauce its rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy flavor. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano works well, or go for nutritional yeast if you want a vegan option!
Fresh Basil: Basil is key for that aromatic freshness. If you can’t find fresh basil, dried basil can work in a pinch, but use only about a third of the amount since dried herbs are stronger.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They’re optional but add great flavor and color. You can leave them out or use fresh tomatoes for a different twist.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky. Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps in getting that nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—give the pieces space to cook evenly. If you’re making more, do it in batches.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time. Chicken breasts are done when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) or when the juices run clear.
Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking—this keeps it juicy and tender!
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
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (for extra flavor and color)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy basil chicken recipe will take about 25 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This will help add flavor right from the beginning.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant—just be careful not to let it burn!
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This adds great flavor to your sauce.
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and the chopped sun-dried tomatoes if you’re using them. Allow the sauce to cook for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Keep stirring to ensure it doesn’t stick!
6. Mix in the Basil:
Now, add the chopped fresh basil leaves into your sauce. This will give it that lovely herby flavor. Stir well.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy basil sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors can mix and the chicken can get warm again.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves. This dish is wonderful served hot with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, which is perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
Enjoy your creamy basil chicken dinner! It’s sure to impress! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The safest way is to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can use the cold water method by placing the sealed chicken in a bowl of cold water for about an hour.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the sauce over low heat until warmed through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating!
Can I Substitute the Cream?
Yes! If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream works well, but keep in mind it will impart a slight coconut flavor.
