This Easy Creamy Basil Chicken Breasts dish is a winner! With tender chicken cooked in a rich, creamy sauce filled with fresh basil, it’s simple and oh-so-delicious!
I love how the flavors come together in just one pan. Serve it with rice or veggies, and you’ll impress everyone—friends, family, and even your taste buds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use turkey breasts. For a vegetarian twist, try replacing chicken with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you want a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind the flavor will differ slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances the creaminess. If you’re out of this cheese, consider using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor! Dried basil can work in a pinch, but use only about a teaspoon, as it’s more concentrated. I love using fresh—it gives such a vibrant taste!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken Breasts?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky, but here are some tips to make sure they turn out juicy and tender:
- Start by pating the chicken dry! This helps in getting a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; give each piece space for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer! Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Let it rest after cooking for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside!
How to Make Easy Creamy Basil Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black 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
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Creamy Basil Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making the total time about 30 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely! Next, season both sides well with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium in the same skillet. Add the butter, letting it melt. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it gets fragrant—watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!
4. Add the Cream and Broth:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently to combine everything. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken a bit.
5. Stir in the Cheese:
Next, toss in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Add the Fresh Basil:
Sprinkle in the chopped fresh basil and give it a good stir to distribute the flavors throughout the sauce.
7. Combine and Heat Through:
Now it’s time to bring back the chicken! Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet and spoon the creamy basil sauce over them. Allow everything to cook together for another 2-3 minutes so the chicken can soak up some of that wonderful sauce.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, before serving, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves for a lovely touch. Enjoy your creamy basil chicken breast paired with steamed veggies, rice, or your favorite side dish!
And there you have it! A quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh chicken is ideal for this recipe as it cooks evenly and retains moisture. If using frozen chicken, make sure to completely thaw it beforehand to ensure even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, though the texture will be less rich. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
To make this creamy basil chicken dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese options or omit the Parmesan cheese altogether. You can enhance flavor with nutritional yeast!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, ensuring you add a little splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess!
