This Creamy Basil Chicken is a delightful dish that’s simple to make. With tender chicken pieces smothered in a rich, creamy sauce and fresh basil, it’s a dinner winner!
You won’t believe how quick it is to whip up this meal. I love serving it over pasta, as it soaks up all that yummy sauce—it’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken thighs could work well, too—they add more flavor and juiciness!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, try substituting with half-and-half or a combination of Greek yogurt and milk. This change maintains creaminess without all the calories.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor, but if you don’t have any, you can use grated Pecorino Romano or even a good-quality hard cheese. Nutritional yeast is also a great vegan substitute!
Basil: Fresh basil really elevates this dish. If you can’t find fresh basil, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil instead, though fresh is best for that vibrant taste.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Creating a creamy sauce can be tricky, but following some simple steps helps a lot. First, be sure to sauté the garlic in butter without burning it, as that can affect the sauce’s flavor.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up those tasty bits that stick. This intensifies the sauce’s flavor.
- When adding the cream, keep the heat at medium. This allows it to thicken gently without curdling.
- Make sure to stir occasionally, so it all blends together beautifully.
These steps will help you master the creamy texture and delicious flavor every time!
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 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you’ll have the Creamy Basil Chicken ready in about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken beautifully.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned—this will add a lovely flavor to the sauce.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth gradually, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This adds even more flavor to your sauce.
5. Make It Creamy:
Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir gently and cook, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly over the next 3-5 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
6. Add Fresh Basil:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves, and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, you can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
7. Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy basil sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
8. Serve It Up:
Once the chicken is heated through, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves. Serve hot, and enjoy this delicious dish with pasta, rice, or alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables!
Enjoy your Creamy Basil Chicken!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just be sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
What Should I Serve with Creamy Basil Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a side of steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a lighter meal!
