This Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce is a tasty dish that’s perfect for any night! Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich and creamy sauce made with fresh basil, making it super flavorful.
I love how quickly this comes together—just cook the chicken, add the sauce, and you’re ready to go! Serve it over rice or pasta, and you’ll have a dinner everyone will enjoy. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs will work too and add extra juiciness!
Panko Breadcrumbs: I recommend using panko for extra crunch. If you’re out, regular breadcrumbs can substitute, but the texture might be less crispy.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely flavor. Pecorino Romano is a great alternative if you want something saltier or sharper.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for the sauce. If it’s not available, you can use one teaspoon of dried basil instead, but fresh is best for that vibrant taste.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a healthier option. It adds creaminess with a slight tang!
How Do You Achieve Crispy Chicken Every Time?
Getting perfectly crispy chicken is simple if you follow a few steps! Start by making sure your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly.
- Coat the chicken in egg first; it helps the breadcrumbs stick better.
- Fry the chicken in hot oil. The oil should be shimmering, indicating it’s hot enough!
- Cook without moving them too much; let them brown nicely before flipping.
- Use a thermometer to check doneness—165°F means they’re perfectly cooked!
Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, thyme, basil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Creamy Basil Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped (or packed)
- 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready, and then 15-20 minutes cooking the chicken and making the sauce. It’s quick, easy, and makes for a fantastic meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preparing your chicken breasts. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound each chicken breast to about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and stay tender. Set aside your chicken while you prepare the coating.
2. Make the Coating Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix it well so every breadcrumb is flavored. This will be the crispy coating for your chicken!
3. Prepare the Egg Wash:
In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs until they’re mixed well. This egg wash will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken perfectly!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and first dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess egg drip back into the bowl. Then, dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure it’s fully coated. Repeat this for each piece of chicken.
5. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter together over medium heat until hot and shimmering. Carefully add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they become golden brown and are cooked through (the internal temperature needs to be at least 165°F/74°C).
6. Make the Creamy Basil Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, let’s whip up the creamy basil sauce! In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it until it’s smooth and everything is evenly mixed.
7. Serve Your Chicken:
Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, take it off the heat and place it onto plates. Generously spoon the creamy basil sauce over each chicken piece. The aroma will be irresistible!
8. Enjoy!
Serve your chicken with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or your favorite side dish. Enjoy your tender, crispy chicken drizzled with that fresh, tangy creamy basil sauce!
This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Enjoy every bite! 😊
FAQ for Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used in place of breasts for a juicier option. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless, and adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a couple more minutes to cook through.
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free rice cereal. Additionally, ensure that your mayonnaise and other sauces are gluten-free as well!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water to the sauce if it thickens too much.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy chicken pairs beautifully with steamed broccoli, pasta, or rice. For a lighter option, consider serving it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the sauce.
