This creamy basil chicken is a tasty dish that’s perfect for dinner. Juicy chicken cooked in a rich sauce made with fresh basil, cream, and garlic brings comforting flavors to your table.
You’ll love how easy this recipe is! Just cook the chicken, mix in the sauce, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s so yummy that even leftovers vanish quickly at my place! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish due to their quick cooking time. You can substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat; they’ll add a bit more flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy richness. If you want a lighter version, try half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Just be aware this may alter the flavor slightly.
Basil: Fresh basil is essential for that fresh, vibrant taste. If you can’t find fresh, you could use dried basil, but use about a third of the amount as dried herbs are stronger.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds great flavor. Grated Pecorino Romano could be a good substitute, or nutritional yeast if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Lemon Juice: It brightens the dish. If you don’t have lemon, lime juice or even a splash of vinegar can work in a pinch.
How Do You Make Creamy Sauce Without Curdling?
A smooth, creamy sauce is key to this dish! Here’s how to keep it creamy without curdling:
- Cook the garlic on medium heat to prevent burning, which can lead to bitterness.
- When adding heavy cream, make sure to lower the heat. Rapid boiling can cause the cream to curdle.
- Stir in the cheese off the heat, allowing the residual heat to melt it smoothly into the sauce.
- Lastly, avoiding high heat when mixing in lemon juice can help maintain that creamy consistency.
Creamy Basil Chicken Recipe
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 (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy basil chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that takes less than 30 minutes to complete. Ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink in the center. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Making the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to get all those tasty browned bits. This adds extra flavor to your sauce! Then, reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Adding Fresh Basil:
Now it’s time to add that fresh basil! Stir in the chopped basil leaves and the optional lemon juice. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.
6. Finishing the Dish:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them with the creamy basil sauce. Let them warm through in the sauce for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Serving:
Finally, serve your creamy basil chicken over rice, pasta, or alongside some steamed vegetables. If you want to make it look extra special, garnish with more fresh basil. Enjoy your delicious homemade dinner!
Happy cooking! 😊
FAQ for Creamy Basil Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well and can add a bit more flavor due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time since thighs may take a little longer to reach the appropriate internal temperature.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If you can’t find fresh basil, you can use dried basil instead. Generally, use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Just add it while you’re simmering the sauce for the best flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover creamy basil chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of cream to the sauce while reheating can help maintain its creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can definitely prepare the chicken ahead of time! Cook the chicken and make the sauce, then store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, just reheat the chicken and sauce together on the stove. It’s a great way to save time on a busy weeknight!
