This Easy Creamy Basil Chicken is a real crowd-pleaser! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked in a rich, creamy sauce that’s bursting with fresh basil flavor. What’s not to love?
Honestly, I can’t resist slathering that sauce over everything! I usually serve it with rice or pasta so I can soak up every last drop. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a quick cook time and easy handling. If you prefer, thighs could be a tasty substitute. They add more flavor and moisture.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a low-fat cream. Just remember, the sauce might be less rich. Coconut milk is also a great dairy-free option!
Parmesan Cheese: Fresh grated Parmesan gives the best flavor, but pre-grated works too. If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can provide a similar taste.
Fresh Basil: Fresh is best for that vibrant flavor, but you can use dried basil if you must. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Perfectly cooked chicken is key in this recipe! Here’s how to avoid dryness:
- Start with room temperature chicken. Take it out of the fridge for 20-30 minutes before cooking.
- Cook on medium-high heat for an even sear. Resist the urge to flip too often!
- Use a meat thermometer. Chicken is done at 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest after cooking. This keeps the juices inside.
How to Make Easy Creamy Basil Chicken Breasts
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 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for company!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This will help bring out the flavor in the chicken.
2. Sear 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 or until they’re golden brown and no longer pink in the center. After they’re done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until you can smell the garlic—be careful not to burn it!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. As it starts to heat, you’ll notice it begin to thicken.
5. Add Flavor with Cheese and Seasoning:
Once simmering, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
6. Finish with Fresh Basil:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil, mixing well to combine. This will add a lovely, fresh flavor to the creamy sauce.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet. Spoon the creamy basil sauce over the top and cook for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors can meld and the chicken heats through.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, and serve your creamy basil chicken hot alongside rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Basil Chicken Breasts
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may not be as thick. For a dairy-free choice, coconut milk works well and adds a unique flavor!
Can I Use Dried Basil Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can use dried basil. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so adjust to taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, gently warm them on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! You can sauté vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the garlic at step 3 to add extra nutrition and flavor to the dish.
