This Creamy Basil Chicken is a simple and tasty dish that’s perfect for dinner! Chicken is cooked until golden, then smothered in a rich and creamy basil sauce that makes your taste buds dance.
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this meal. I often serve it with pasta or rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using chicken thighs, which are juicy and flavorful. Alternatively, tofu can be a great plant-based substitute!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you’re on a lighter diet, you can substitute it with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just know it will slightly change the taste.
Basil: Fresh basil really makes this recipe shine! If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil, but use about a third of the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated. Another option is spinach blended into the sauce for a different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a savory touch. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Pecorino Romano is another good substitute if you’re looking for something saltier.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it every time! Here’s how:
- Keep the heat at medium to avoid overcooking the chicken outside while leaving it raw inside.
- Use a meat thermometer! Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if necessary, as this helps the chicken brown nicely.
Following these tips will ensure your chicken is golden on the outside and tender on the inside, 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 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Basil Chicken recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you will spend approximately 30-35 minutes from start to finish. 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 helps to enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. 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 butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. This will create a rich and creamy base for your sauce.
5. Add Flavor:
Now it’s time to add the flavor! Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, Italian seasoning, and lemon juice if you’re using it. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Combine and Heat:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure to spoon the creamy sauce over them. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through and infused with all those delicious flavors.
7. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves. Serve the creamy basil chicken hot with rice, pasta, or your favorite sides, and enjoy your comforting meal!
Enjoy your easy and delicious Creamy Basil Chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option, or even use boneless chicken tenders. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
To lighten this dish, you can use half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of heavy cream. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of cheese or skip it altogether for a lower-calorie version.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, or microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Simply cube the tofu and sauté it until golden before making the creamy sauce, and follow the same steps for preparation. This will give you a delightful vegetarian option!