This Easy Creamy Basil Chicken Breasts recipe is a winner! It’s got tender chicken and a delicious creamy basil sauce that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
Making this dish is a breeze! Just sear the chicken, whip up the sauce, and in no time, you’re ready to impress. I love serving it with rice to soak up all that yummy sauce! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and remain tender. If you prefer, thighs work well too. They add more flavor and stay juicy.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor, but butter is a great substitute for a richer taste. You could even use a mix of both for the best of both worlds!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can be swapped in, but the sauce may be less rich.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is essential for that bright flavor. If you’re in a pinch, dried basil can work, but use much less – about 1 teaspoon.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice salty touch to the sauce. Grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free version.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky. Start by patting the chicken breasts dry; this helps them sear nicely. Use medium-high heat to get a good golden crust without burning them. Internal temperature should hit 165°F (75°C).
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps it juicy.
- For added flavor, sear the chicken in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough to avoid overcrowding.
How to Make Easy Creamy Basil Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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 (or stock)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra whole leaves for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 teaspoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking the chicken, followed by 15-20 minutes to make the creamy sauce and bring everything together.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil until it shimmers. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine while scraping any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning (if using). Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Add Fresh Basil:
Once thickened, add the chopped fresh basil leaves and stir them into the creamy sauce, enhancing the flavor.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is warmed through and infused with all the delicious basil flavor.
7. Finish and Serve:
If desired, stir in a teaspoon of butter to add an extra touch of richness to the sauce. Garnish with whole basil leaves for a lovely presentation. Serve the creamy basil chicken breasts hot alongside your favorite sides like rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
Enjoy your creamy, savory chicken with the fresh pop of basil! It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Basil Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely first! The safest way is to leave it in the fridge overnight. For quicker thawing, place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream or a cashew cream. Just keep in mind that these substitutes may change the flavor and texture slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce.
What Sides Go Well with Creamy Basil Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over rice, pasta, or even with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also complement it nicely!
