This Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce is a winner for dinner! Tender chicken smothered in a rich, creamy sauce bursting with fresh basil is hard to resist.
I love how simple it is to whip up. Just sauté the chicken, mix in the creamy sauce, and you’ll have a meal that feels fancy without any fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe since they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can also use thighs for a richer flavor or even a plant-based protein like tofu for a vegetarian option.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend using Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. If you can’t find them, plain breadcrumbs mixed with Italian herbs will do the trick. For a gluten-free version, try crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you want a lighter option, you could use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary!
Basil: Fresh basil adds a wonderful flavor, but if you’re out, dried basil can be a substitute. Use about a tablespoon of dried to replace the fresh. It won’t be quite as bright, but it’s still good!
How Do I Coat Chicken Perfectly?
Coating chicken well is key to getting that crunchy texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Pound or slice the chicken to even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs mixed with seasoning.
- Coat each piece in flour first (it helps the egg stick), then dip in egg, and finally cover completely with breadcrumbs. Press the crumbs on to get a good coating.
- When frying, don’t overcrowd the pan; this allows for even cooking and helps the chicken crisp up nicely.
Taking these steps will give you that delicious crispy chicken you want!
Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Creamy Basil Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
For Serving:
- Optional: steamed broccoli or any green vegetable
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. So, in just about 30 minutes, you can have a wonderful meal on the table that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Start by preparing your chicken breasts. If they are thick, either slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets or pound them evenly to about a 1/2 inch thickness. This helps them cook faster and more evenly.
2. Set up Dredging Station:
In a shallow bowl, mix the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with half of the grated Parmesan cheese, along with a pinch of salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Dredge the Chicken:
Coat each chicken breast first in the flour (shake off the excess), then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finish by pressing it into the breadcrumb mixture until it’s well-coated. This layering helps achieve a nice crunch!
4. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and keep them warm while you make the sauce.
5. Make the Creamy Basil Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it briefly until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Then, lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with any leftover drippings in the pan.
6. Add Flavor:
Add the chopped fresh basil and the remaining Parmesan cheese into the cream sauce. Stir well to melt the cheese and allow the sauce to thicken slightly (about 2-3 minutes). Taste and season with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve:
Finally, pour the creamy basil sauce over the crispy chicken breasts. Serve immediately with a side of steamed broccoli or your choice of green vegetables for a deliciously complete meal!
Enjoy your crispy, tender chicken with that rich, herbaceous basil cream sauce! It’s perfect for any dinner occasion.
FAQ for Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more flavor and juiciness. Just be sure to adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few more minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy basil chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed broccoli, pasta, rice, or a side salad. These options will help soak up that delightful creamy sauce!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the chicken’s tenderness and keep the sauce creamy.
