Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

There’s something magical about a rich, creamy sauce that clings to tender chicken, infused with fragrant herbs like basil. When you’re looking for a dish that feels indulgent yet simple enough to whip up on a weeknight, this Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is the perfect solution. It’s a meal that brings together a balance of fresh flavors and comforting richness, with juicy chicken breasts nestled in a luscious, herbaceous cream sauce. Each bite bursts with the brightness of fresh basil, a hint of garlic, and the satisfying creaminess of the sauce.

This recipe is one of those hidden gems that feels sophisticated enough for special occasions, yet the ingredients are simple and likely already in your pantry. Whether you’re feeding a family, having friends over for dinner, or treating yourself to something special, Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce will surely impress.

It’s also incredibly versatile—you can serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. If you’re a fan of quick, flavorful meals, you’re going to fall in love with this recipe.

Ready to learn how to make this irresistible dish? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

1. Incredibly Flavorful: The fresh basil, creamy sauce, and tender chicken make for an explosion of flavors that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
2. Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it takes less than 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish.
3. Perfect for Entertaining: While easy to make, the dish looks and tastes like it came from a fine-dining restaurant. It’s a great option for impressing guests at a dinner party.
4. Customizable: You can easily add more vegetables or swap out ingredients to make it lighter or richer, depending on your preference.
5. One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean! This recipe only requires one skillet, which means minimal mess and maximum flavor.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 430 kcal
• Carbs: 6g
• Fat: 29g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 1g

(Nutritional values are approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Basil Cream Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a hint of spice

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken:

Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. If your chicken breasts are very thick, you can either pound them to an even thickness or slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This helps the chicken cook more evenly and quickly.

2. Heat the Skillet:

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. The combination of olive oil and butter gives the chicken a nice golden color while keeping it juicy inside.

3. Sear the Chicken:

Once the oil and butter are hot and shimmering, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, keeping it warm under foil.

Step 2: Make the Basil Cream Sauce

1. Sauté the Garlic:

In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out—you want all those delicious browned bits from the chicken to flavor the sauce), add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.

2. Deglaze with Chicken Broth:

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This process, called deglazing, adds a ton of flavor to the sauce. Let the broth simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.

3. Add the Cream and Parmesan:

Lower the heat to medium and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Whisk continuously to avoid any lumps. Once the cream is well incorporated, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce and it starts to thicken, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add Fresh Basil and Lemon:

Stir in the chopped fresh basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The basil adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor, while the lemon zest and juice bring brightness that cuts through the richness of the cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this point.

Step 3: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. Return Chicken to the Pan:

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the basil cream sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb some of the sauce.

2. Serve:

Remove the skillet from heat. Spoon the sauce generously over the chicken. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and lemon wedges on the side for an added citrusy punch.

Step 4: Serving Suggestions

This dish is perfect as a main course, and you have plenty of options for side dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve Over Pasta: Ladle the basil cream sauce and chicken over cooked pasta—linguine, fettuccine, or penne would all be great choices.
• With Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with fluffy mashed potatoes, soaking into the potatoes for an extra layer of indulgence.
• Alongside Rice: For a lighter option, serve the chicken with jasmine or basmati rice. The rice will absorb the sauce perfectly.
• Crusty Bread: If you’re in the mood for something simple, serve the chicken with a side of crusty bread to mop up the sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted asparagus, green beans, or a fresh garden salad complements the richness of the dish beautifully.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and lemon are key to making this dish shine. Dried basil won’t give you the same vibrant flavor, so opt for fresh whenever possible.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To ensure your chicken stays juicy, keep a close eye on the cooking time. Chicken breasts can dry out quickly if overcooked. A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure they’re perfectly cooked.
3. Whisk Continuously: When adding the cream and Parmesan to the sauce, whisk continuously to prevent the cream from curdling or the cheese from clumping.
4. Thicken the Sauce if Needed: If the sauce seems too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to thicken. Alternatively, you can stir in an extra tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to help it thicken faster.
5. Add a Pop of Color: Garnishing with fresh basil and a lemon wedge not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish look beautiful and restaurant-quality.

Recipe Variations

1. Chicken and Spinach Basil Cream Sauce:

For a veggie boost, add fresh spinach to the sauce right before serving. The spinach will wilt beautifully in the cream sauce, adding color and nutrients to the dish.

2. Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Chicken:

For a burst of Mediterranean flavor, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce along with the garlic. The sweet-tart tomatoes pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce and fresh basil.

3. Lightened-Up Version:

To make a lighter version of this dish, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be a bit thinner. You can also use Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a tangier twist with less fat.

4. Basil Cream Shrimp:

If you’re a seafood lover, try swapping the chicken for shrimp. Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through, then proceed with the recipe as written. The sauce will pair beautifully with the delicate shrimp.

5. Basil Cream Chicken Thighs:

Prefer dark meat? Swap out the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They’re juicier and bring a richer flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.

Freezing and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce, as it will thicken when chilled.

Freezing the Chicken:

This dish also freezes well! Simply let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it (with the sauce) to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently warm on the stove over low heat.

Reheating Tips:

When reheating the chicken, avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can cause the chicken to dry out. Instead, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: A large, deep skillet is essential for cooking the chicken and making the sauce.
• Tongs: For easily flipping the chicken without puncturing it and releasing the juices.
• Whisk: To ensure a smooth and creamy sauce.
• Microplane or Zester: For fresh lemon zest, which adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While you can use dried basil in a pinch, fresh basil is highly recommended for this dish. Dried basil won’t provide the same bright, herbal flavor that fresh basil offers.

2. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you want a lighter sauce. Keep in mind that the sauce will be slightly less rich and may not thicken as much, so you may want to reduce it a bit longer on the stove.

3. How can I make the sauce spicier?

For a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Start with a pinch and adjust to your desired level of spiciness. You can also drizzle a little Sriracha or hot sauce over the finished dish for extra heat.

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make the dish dairy-free, use coconut cream or dairy-free cream as a substitute for heavy cream, and omit the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative. Be sure to also use dairy-free butter or oil for cooking the chicken.

5. What other herbs can I use besides basil?

While basil is the star of this dish, you can also experiment with other fresh herbs like tarragon, thyme, or oregano for a slightly different flavor profile. Fresh parsley is also a great addition for garnish.

Conclusion

This Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is the ultimate comfort food for any day of the week. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that brings together fresh, vibrant flavors and a rich, creamy sauce that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

With its easy preparation, short cooking time, and minimal cleanup, this recipe is perfect for busy schedules without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the versatility of the recipe allows you to customize it to your liking, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. So grab your skillet, fresh basil, and cream, and get ready to treat yourself to a truly delicious meal!

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