This Easy Creamy Basil Chicken is a quick and yummy dinner! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked in a rich, creamy sauce flavored with fresh basil—it’s like a hug on your plate!
You’ll love how simple this is! Just sear the chicken, whip up the sauce, and dinner is ready. I always save some extra sauce for dipping bread—it’s too good to waste! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you might use chicken thighs, which are also delicious!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try substituting half-and-half or coconut cream. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty kick. You can replace it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is a must for that vibrant flavor! If you can’t find fresh, use about 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil, but add it earlier in the cooking process for better flavor release.
How to Sear Chicken Breasts Perfectly?
Searing chicken beautifully seals in the juices, making the meat tender and flavorful. Here’s how to do it right:
- Let chicken sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking—this helps it cook evenly.
- Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat until hot, then add oil. If it shimmers, you’re good to go!
- Don’t crowd the pan! Cook only a few chicken breasts at once. This ensures they brown properly.
- Turn them only once to develop a nice golden crust. Avoid moving them around too much.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken is safe and cooked through at 165°F (74°C).
How to Make Easy Creamy Basil Chicken Breasts
Ingredients:
- 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 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus a few whole leaves for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish—15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and delicious option for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This simple step adds great flavor to the chicken.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. When they’re done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Base:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4. Add the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and let it simmer for about 2 minutes. This helps to scrape any tasty bits off the bottom of the pan, adding even more flavor to your sauce.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. If you’re using Italian seasoning, toss that in as well. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens nicely.
6. Mix in the Basil:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil. This is where your dish starts to smell amazing!
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy basil sauce over each piece and cook for another 2-3 minutes. This will heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with whole basil leaves for a lovely presentation. Serve your Easy Creamy Basil Chicken with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to enjoy every last bit of that delicious sauce!
Enjoy your meal!
FAQ about Easy Creamy Basil Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra flavor and tenderness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through—aim for about 6-8 minutes per side.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream. Keep in mind that the sauce will be a bit thinner with these substitutes, so you may want to cook it a little longer to achieve your desired thickness.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy basil chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Simply reheat gently on the stove before serving, making sure to stir well to combine the flavors again!
