This creamy basil chicken is a tasty and easy dish for dinner. Tender chicken smothered in a rich and herby sauce makes it a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer, you can swap them for thighs for more flavor or use tofu for a vegetarian version.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of Greek yogurt and milk. Just mix them well before adding.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a lovely depth to the sauce. If you’re dairy-free, you can use nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese as an alternative.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor. If you can’t find it, dried basil can work in a pinch, but use only about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Make the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
The sauce is what makes this chicken so delicious! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by sautéing the garlic in butter. This releases wonderful flavors, so don’t rush this step!
- When you add the heavy cream and chicken broth, stir well to combine. Keeping the heat at medium-low helps to thicken it slowly without boiling.
- As the cheese melts in, whisk it in completely to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth sauce.
- Finally, don’t forget to fold in the fresh basil at the end for that vibrant flavor.
Keep tasting as you go! Adjust seasonings if needed, and you’ll have a perfect creamy sauce every time!
How to Make Creamy Basil Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 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 (reserve some for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon butter
Optional Garnish:
- Cherry tomatoes, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Creamy Basil Chicken takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking it all up. It’s a quick and satisfying meal any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This simple step adds a great flavor base for your chicken when cooking.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now it’s time to make the sauce! Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Next, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. This should take just a couple of minutes.
6. Add Basil:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves at this stage. This adds a fresh, vibrant flavor to your sauce!
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the creamy basil sauce over the top, and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes. This ensures the chicken is heated through and absorbs some of the delicious flavors.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with the reserved basil leaves and cherry tomatoes if you like. Serve your delicious creamy basil chicken over rice, pasta, or alongside crusty bread. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe, you can also use chicken thighs for added flavor and moisture. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes! For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a blend of Greek yogurt and milk. If using yogurt, mix it well before adding to avoid curdling and to keep the sauce creamy.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid separating the sauce. You may want to add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to bring back some creaminess.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Basil Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta or rice, as they soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the sauce!
