This Creamy Basil Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for dinner. Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich and creamy sauce with fresh basil that adds amazing flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps the dish light and easy to cook. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try chicken thighs. They remain juicy and tender during cooking.
Heavy Cream: This is key for a rich sauce. If you’re on a lighter side, you can substitute it with whole milk mixed with a bit of flour to thicken. Alternatively, coconut cream gives a dairy-free option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for the best flavor. If you have garlic powder on hand, you can use about 1/4 teaspoon, but fresh is always better!
Basil: Fresh basil is essential here. If you can’t find it, you can use dried basil, but remember to use only a fraction since it’s more concentrated. You can also swap it with spinach for a different twist.
How Do You Get the Chicken Nice and Juicy?
The cooking technique is important for juicy chicken. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts well with salt and pepper. This adds flavor as they cook.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot before adding the chicken. This helps to sear it.
- Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid moving them too much; this helps to create a brown crust.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Cream Sauce?
To achieve that perfect creamy consistency, here’s what you need to do:
- After adding the heavy cream, let it simmer without boiling. Boiling can curdle your cream.
- Add Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring. This will help thicken the sauce naturally.
- Using a wooden spoon to scrape any bits from the pan is a great trick; these add even more flavor!
How to Make Creamy Basil Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main 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 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be looking at around 30 minutes to serve up a delicious creamy basil chicken dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is essential for bringing out the flavors of the chicken!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom. This adds incredible flavor to your sauce! Next, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, or until it starts to thicken slightly.
5. Add the Fresh Basil:
Once the sauce has thickened, add the chopped fresh basil leaves. Stir the basil in well to distribute its fresh flavor throughout the sauce.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Spoon some of that delicious creamy sauce over the top of the chicken and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will help the chicken absorb all those wonderful flavors!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your creamy basil chicken with fresh basil leaves before serving. It pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy your delightful dinner!
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used here, you can also use thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time as needed; thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut milk, or a mixture of whole milk and a tablespoon of flour to thicken the sauce. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much while storing.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the creamy basil chicken! Just ensure it’s in an airtight container. It should last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
