This creamy basil chicken is a simple and tasty dinner choice! Chicken gets coated in a rich, smooth sauce with fresh basil. The flavors mix beautifully for a cozy meal.
I love how quick this dish is to whip up! Perfect for busy nights when you still want something special. Serve it with rice or pasta, and enjoy a happy, satisfied tummy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts work well here for quick cooking. If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use thighs for a juicier option or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Heavy Cream: The creamy sauce gets its richness from heavy cream. For a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Chicken Broth: I like using low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish. Vegetable broth can be a great substitute for a vegetarian option.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for this recipe’s flavor. If you can’t find fresh basil, dried basil can work, but use only 1 tablespoon as it’s stronger. You could also experiment with fresh parsley for a different twist.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free alternative that adds a cheesy taste.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken can sometimes lead to dry meat, but there are easy tricks to keep it juicy:
- Always season your chicken well; don’t skip the salt and pepper.
- Make sure to cook it over medium-high heat until golden brown. This seals in the juices.
- Don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F when done.
If you let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking, it’ll retain even more moisture! Just cover it lightly with foil while you finish the sauce.
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
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy basil chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes—perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, 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 and sauté for around 1 minute, stirring well until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Build the Sauce:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds lots of flavor to your sauce!
5. Create the Creamy Base:
Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring well to combine. If you like a bit of spice, now’s the time to add the red pepper flakes. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce starts to thicken.
6. Add the Fresh Ingredients:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil and lemon juice, mixing everything until well combined. The aroma will be divine!
7. Finish Cooking the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy basil sauce over the chicken and allow it to simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together. Make sure the chicken is heated through.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy basil chicken hot, garnished with extra fresh basil leaves on top. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a slice of crusty bread. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe and can be even juicier than breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly; they may need an extra minute or two, depending on their thickness.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour for thickness. For a dairy-free alternative, try full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream substitute.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze creamy basil chicken. Place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove.
