This Creamy Basil Chicken Dinner is a comforting dish with juicy chicken cooked in a rich, creamy sauce filled with fresh basil. It’s super easy and so tasty!
I love making this dish because it smells amazing while cooking. Serve it with rice or pasta, and you’ll have a dinner everyone will enjoy. Trust me, seconds will be a must! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts offer convenience and cook quickly. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier option or even tofu for a plant-based meal.
Heavy Cream: This gives a rich texture to the sauce, but you can substitute half-and-half or coconut cream if you want a lighter or dairy-free choice. It won’t be quite as rich, but still tasty!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t have it, any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option works well too!
Fresh Basil: Basil provides a fresh flavor that can’t be matched. If you can’t find it, use dried basil—just remember that dried herbs are stronger, so use about a third of the amount.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting tender chicken is key in this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps sear the meat and keeps it juicy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—if needed, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer. Cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside!
How to Make Creamy Basil Chicken Dinner
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
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Basil Chicken Dinner takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick recipe that’s perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. This will create a lovely aroma and flavor base for the sauce!
4. Make the Sauce:
Next, pour in the chicken broth, and gently scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze it. This means you’re getting all those tasty browned bits mixed into the sauce. Then, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes so it can thicken.
5. Add Fresh Basil:
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the chopped fresh basil to give it a burst of flavor. This will really elevate the dish!
6. Combine and Finish Cooking:
Return the chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon the creamy basil sauce over the top of the chicken. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy basil chicken hot! Make sure to spoon extra sauce over the chicken. It’s fantastic with pasta, rice, or any fresh vegetables on the side. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Creamy Basil Chicken Dinner Recipe
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and tend to be juicier than breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few more minutes to cook through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy creamer, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. You’ll still get a delicious creamy sauce!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers while making the sauce. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the chicken broth for added flavor and nutrition!
