If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve got to try this Basil Cream Chicken Recipe. It combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a luscious, aromatic sauce bursting with fresh basil and creamy Parmesan goodness. It’s a perfect balance of rich and fresh flavors that effortlessly elevate any weeknight dinner or special occasion meal. Once you dive into this creamy, herb-infused delight, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed chicken any other way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of fresh and pantry staples makes this Basil Cream Chicken Recipe as simple as it is spectacular. Each ingredient plays a starring role, from the tender chicken breasts that soak up the sauce, to the fresh basil that brings a vibrant pop of color and flavor.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose well-trimmed breasts for even cooking and perfect tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for searing the chicken to golden brown perfection and adding a rich flavor base.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This creates the silky, luxurious sauce that makes this recipe truly indulgent.
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Fresh basil is the heart of the dish, infusing it with a bright, fragrant herbiness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a warm, savory depth that complements every bite.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding sharp, nutty undertones and a creamy texture.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A splash of citrus brightness to balance the richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The simple seasonings that enhance every flavor without overpowering.
How to Make Basil Cream Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by letting your chicken breasts come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper, which is crucial to bringing out the natural flavor of the chicken throughout the cooking process.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the chicken breasts into the hot pan and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, allowing a beautiful golden crust to form. This step locks in the juices and adds a lovely texture. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and tent with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Basil Sauce
Keeping your skillet on medium heat, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it just until fragrant, about 30 seconds—don’t let it burn. Immediately pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. This cooling moment sets the stage for the rest of the vibrant flavors.
Step 4: Add Basil, Parmesan, and Lemon
Stir in the chopped basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, and a tablespoon of lemon juice. Season with a bit more salt and pepper if needed. Let this sauce simmer gently until it thickens just slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes. The basil infuses its fresh essence while the Parmesan melts into creamy goodness that will coat the chicken perfectly.
Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the rich basil cream sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and let everything simmer together for 2 to 3 more minutes. This final step allows the chicken to soak up the sauce’s flavor and ensures it’s heated through without drying out.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your chicken is bathed in that heavenly sauce, it’s time to plate up and dig in. The creamy, herbaceous sauce clings to every bite, making this Basil Cream Chicken Recipe truly irresistible.
How to Serve Basil Cream Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves sprinkled on top add a burst of color and emphasize the fragrant herb flavor. You can also shave a little extra Parmesan for an elegant, cheesy finish. These small touches make your dish look just as incredible as it tastes!
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs beautifully with a light side like steamed asparagus, garlic roasted veggies, or fluffy mashed potatoes that soak up the luscious sauce. For something heartier, serve over creamy risotto or buttery pasta for an ultra-comforting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the chicken over a bed of sautéed greens or nestling it beside polenta rounds for a rustic twist. Serving this Basil Cream Chicken Recipe in shallow bowls also showcases the sauce perfectly, inviting everyone to savor every bite drenched in creamy basil goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Basil Cream Chicken Recipe (though we doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy, satisfying next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Keep in mind that freezing may slightly change the texture of the cream sauce, but the flavor remains delightful.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream from separating. Stir frequently until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between, for the best results.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well for this recipe and offer a bit more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may need a bit longer to cook through.
Is fresh basil necessary or can I use dried?
Fresh basil is key to delivering that vibrant, herbal essence. Dried basil won’t quite capture the same freshness, but if that’s what you have, use it sparingly and add at the end of cooking.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The flavor will be a little different but still delicious and creamy.
How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?
Simmer the sauce gently on low to medium heat, avoid boiling vigorously, and add the cream gradually. Stir constantly to keep the sauce silky smooth during cooking.
What wine pairs well with Basil Cream Chicken?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with this dish, as their acidity complements the richness and the herbal brightness of the basil.
Final Thoughts
This Basil Cream Chicken Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to favorites for a reason. It’s comfort food that feels elegant without any fuss, bursting with fresh flavor and creamy indulgence in every bite. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the warmth and joy it brings to your table as much as I do!
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Basil Cream Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Basil Cream Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish featuring golden seared chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy sauce infused with fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of lemon. Perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe balances savory and fresh flavors in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Allow chicken breasts to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to ensure even cooking. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 6-7 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust. Remove chicken from skillet and cover with foil to keep warm.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Add flavorings: Stir in the chopped fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Continue to simmer until the sauce slightly thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the basil cream sauce over them. Let them simmer together for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors and ensure the chicken is heated through.
- Serve: Serve the chicken hot, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh basil to maximize flavor in the sauce.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it will be less creamy.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
