This Creamy Basil Chicken is a breeze to make and full of flavor! Tender chicken breasts are cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with fresh basil. Yum!
I love serving this dish with rice or pasta to soak up that tasty sauce. It’s so simple, your family will think you’ve been cooking all day! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless is best for this recipe, as they stay tender and cook quickly. You can swap them for chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat, or even use tofu for a vegetarian option!
Heavy Cream: It gives the sauce its rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half or coconut milk can work, just keep in mind it may change the flavor slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is always better, but pre-grated works in a pinch. For a non-dairy substitute, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a great zing. You can leave them out if you’re not a fan or toss in some cherry tomatoes instead for a fresh touch!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Creating a creamy sauce may sound challenging, but it’s simple! Here’s how to get it right:
- Start by sautéing garlic carefully; you want it fragrant, not burnt. This adds a lovely base to your sauce.
- When you pour in the chicken broth, be sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet to get all those delicious bits. They add flavor!
- Once the cream and cheese go in, stir continuously to prevent sticking. This helps mix everything smoothly.
- Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken by cooking on low heat. Patience here pays off with a luscious texture!
Feel free to adjust the seasoning as you go. If you love basil, add some more! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamy Basil Chicken
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
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Creamy Basil Chicken recipe takes approximately 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and seasoning the chicken, followed by around 15-20 minutes cooking everything in the skillet. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a delightful weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
First, take your chicken breasts and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This helps to enhance the flavor of the chicken while 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 each side for about 5-7 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it as that can make it bitter!
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Next, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. This adds rich flavor to your sauce!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium, and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and butter. Keep stirring frequently until the sauce slightly thickens, which will take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Add the Extras:
If you’re using sun-dried tomatoes, add them now along with the chopped fresh basil. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
7. Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the creamy sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes to marry the flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the creamy basil chicken hot over pasta, rice, or your favorite side dish. Don’t forget to garnish with extra fresh basil if you like! Enjoy your delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Basil Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way is to thaw them overnight in the fridge, or you can use the quick method of placing the sealed bag in cold water for a couple of hours.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a different flavor. Keep in mind the consistency might be a bit thinner, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if the sauce thickens too much.
What Sides Pair Well with Creamy Basil Chicken?
This dish is fantastic served over pasta or rice to soak up the sauce. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal!
