This creamy basil chicken is a tasty dish that’s easy to put together! With fresh basil and a smooth sauce, it adds great flavor to simple chicken breasts. Yummy!
Whenever I make this, I feel like a chef in my own kitchen! 🍽️ Pair it with rice or veggies, and watch everyone go for seconds. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish since they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Heavy Cream: If you want a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or whole milk. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free option, which gives a slight hint of sweetness.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is a must for that cheesy flavor! If you don’t have Parmesan, you can try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a plant-based alternative.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds all the flavor! In a pinch, dried basil can work, but use about one teaspoon since dried is more concentrated. Fresh is highly recommended for the best taste.
How Do You Ensure The Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken just right is essential. Here’s how to make sure it’s not overcooked or undercooked:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (75°C).
- Choose chicken breasts of similar size for even cooking. If they’re thick, consider butterflying them or pounding them gently with a meat mallet.
- Don’t crowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming! This helps develop a nice golden crust.
Following these tips will give you succulent chicken that’s sure to impress!
Easy Creamy Basil Chicken Breasts Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black 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
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 25 minutes total—5 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes to cook. Quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
First, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will help enhance the flavor of the chicken.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear them until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes on each side. The chicken should have a nice golden crust. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Garlic:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan, as they add great flavor to your sauce. Let this mixture come to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Cheese & Basil:
Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning (if you’re using it), and chopped fresh basil into the sauce. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to look creamy and luscious!
6. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of that yummy sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors and warm the chicken through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your creamy basil chicken with extra fresh basil leaves before serving. This dish is perfect over pasta, rice, or with steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQs about Easy Creamy Basil Chicken Breasts
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 is to leave it in the fridge overnight or thaw it quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure it sears well.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the Parmesan, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens up too much.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Basil Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or quinoa to soak up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal!
