This Creamy Basil Chicken Dinner is a real treat! Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich, creamy sauce filled with fresh basil and garlic. It’s like a flavor hug on a plate!
Honestly, I can’t get enough of this dish. I love serving it over rice or pasta to soak up all that tasty sauce. It’s an easy way to impress family or friends! 🌿🍗
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and absorb flavors well. If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich and creamy texture. If you’re watching calories, feel free to substitute with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter option. But, keep in mind, the flavor will change a bit!
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice umami kick to the dish. If you’re out of Parmesan, pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a dairy-free option) can work, although the taste will differ slightly.
Fresh Basil: The star of this dish! Fresh basil is best for flavor. If you don’t have any, dried basil can be used, but use only 1 teaspoon instead of a cup since it’s more concentrated.
How Do You Make the Sauce Just Right?
The sauce can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right! Start by sautéing the garlic until it’s fragrant, but don’t let it burn – that can make it bitter.
- Once you add chicken broth and scrape up any bits, that’s where a lot of the flavor comes from, so don’t skip this step!
- Typically, it’s important to simmer the cream and cheese mixture so it thickens. Stir it gently and watch it closely; you want it silky, not too thick or too thin.
- Finally, folding in the fresh basil at the end keeps its vibrant flavor and color intact, making your dish stand out.
So, keep these tips in mind, and you’ll have a delicious creamy basil chicken dinner ready to impress!
Creamy Basil Chicken Dinner
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 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: cherry tomatoes for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and around 20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes before you can sit down and enjoy this delicious meal! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step adds great flavor right from the beginning!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook them until they are golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 6-7 minutes on each side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate while you make the sauce.
3. Making the Garlic Butter:
In the same skillet, add the butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant, which takes about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn, as that can make it taste bitter.
4. Adding the Chicken Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and use a spatula to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This will add depth to your sauce and enhance the overall flavor!
5. Creating the Creamy Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to medium, and add the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce begins to thicken. This should only take a few minutes.
6. Mixing in Fresh Basil:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves and give it a good mix. The basil will add a fresh and vibrant flavor to your sauce!
7. Bringing It All Together:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of that creamy basil sauce over them. Let it simmer together for another 3-4 minutes to warm the chicken through and meld the flavors beautifully.
8. Serving Your Delicious Dish:
Once everything is nicely combined and heated, serve your Creamy Basil Chicken hot. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken for good measure, and if you like, garnish with more fresh basil or some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color. Enjoy it with pasta, rice, or steamed veggies for a complete meal!
Now, dig in and enjoy this creamy, comforting dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in this recipe for a richer flavor and juicier texture. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a few more minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you want to make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. For the Parmesan cheese, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving!
What Are the Best Sides to Serve with Creamy Basil Chicken?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or steamed veggies. You could also serve it with a fresh salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. Enjoy!
