This Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce is a yummy dish that features juicy chicken cooked in a smooth, dreamy basil sauce. It’s simple to make and absolutely full of flavor!
You won’t believe how quickly this comes together. I often whip this up on busy nights when I want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect with pasta or rice!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for its light and crispy texture. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they might not be as crunchy. You can also make your own by toasting stale bread and blending it.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or a nut-based cream alternative.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor. If you don’t have it, dried basil works, but use only a tablespoon since dried herbs are more potent. You might also consider parsley if basil isn’t available.
Why Is Flattening Chicken Important?
Flattening the chicken breasts is crucial for even cooking and a quicker cook time. If thicker parts take longer to cook, they can end up dry by the time thinner sections are done. Here’s how to easily flatten them:
- Place chicken in a zip-top bag or between two sheets of plastic wrap.
- Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch thickness, ensuring even pressure.
This technique helps the chicken cook more uniformly and results in a tender bite. Trust me, it’s worth the extra minute!
How to Make Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Basil Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This delicious chicken dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total of around 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by flattening the chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thick. You can do this by placing them in a zip-top bag or between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pounding with a meat mallet or rolling pin. This step ensures even cooking and tender chicken!
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning; the second with beaten eggs; and the third with panko breadcrumbs combined with 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. This will help you coat the chicken beautifully!
3. Bread the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and dredge it first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it thoroughly with the panko mixture. Don’t forget to press firmly so the coating sticks well—this gives you that lovely crunch!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
5. Make the Creamy Basil Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the minced garlic, sautéing just until it’s fragrant—about 30 seconds. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the chopped basil and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the creamy basil sauce over it. Let it heat together for an additional minute to meld those delightful flavors. Serve hot, topped with the creamy sauce and alongside your choice of steamed vegetables or pasta!
Enjoy your flavorful and comforting Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce! It’s sure to be a hit on your dinner table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide a richer flavor and remain moist. Just make sure they are boneless and skinless for even cooking, similar to the breasts.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and using gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The flavor will still shine through!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra cream if the sauce thickens too much.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can work, though the sauce will be less rich. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or a nut-based cream like cashew cream.
