This Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce is a tasty dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy sauce made from fresh basil. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
What I love about this recipe is how quick it is to make. I can whip it up on a busy night and still impress everyone at the table! Serve it over pasta for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are best for a quick cook. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just be sure to adjust cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These provide a great crunch! If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work too, but they won’t be as crispy. You could also use crushed cornflakes for a fun twist!
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you want a lighter version, you could swap it for half-and-half or even coconut milk. Just keep in mind it will change the flavor a bit.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil gives the sauce its vibrant flavor. If it’s out of season or you can’t find it, use 1 teaspoon of dried basil instead, but fresh is always best!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice cheesy touch to the breadcrumbs and sauce. Feel free to use pecorino or even nutritional yeast if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Chicken?
Making crispy chicken is simple if you follow a few steps:
- Flatten the Chicken: Ensure even thickness for even cooking. This prevents dry edges when frying.
- Double Dredge: Coat the chicken in flour first, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs mixed with cheese. This creates a nice barrier for that crispy finish!
- Temperature Control: Heat the skillet to medium heat. Too high can burn the breadcrumbs before the chicken cooks through.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary. This helps maintain the oil temperature, ensuring a good crisp.
By using these techniques, you’ll have deliciously crispy chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 15 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken, plus around 10-15 minutes for the sauce. It’s a quick recipe that’s perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by flattening the chicken breasts. Place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Bread the Chicken:
In a shallow dish, mix the flour, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese. Take each chicken breast, dredge it first in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Then dip it into the egg, and coat it evenly with the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure it’s nicely covered!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts carefully. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm.
4. Make the Creamy Basil Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the chopped fresh basil and optional lemon zest. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the sauce for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens slightly.
5. Serve:
Pour the creamy basil sauce generously over the cooked chicken breasts. This is best enjoyed immediately, served alongside some steamed broccoli or vegetables of your choice.
Enjoy your flavorful and comforting Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce!
FAQ for Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Can I Use Thawed Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking. For best results, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or place it sealed in a plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quick thaw.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the cheese, you can use nutritional yeast or omit it altogether for a lighter option.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy chicken pairs nicely with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a healthier option, serve with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of cream or broth to loosen it up while reheating.
