Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Introduction

Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a flavorful and indulgent dish that brings together tender chicken breasts and a rich, creamy sauce made with fresh basil and Parmesan. The sauce is silky and aromatic, with the basil adding a fresh, herbaceous punch to the creamy base.

I first made this dish when I was looking for something a little more elevated for dinner, and it quickly became a favorite. The combination of the tender chicken and the luxurious, herb-infused sauce is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. The creamy basil sauce is so rich and flavorful, it elevates the dish without being overwhelming.

Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner, preparing a weeknight meal, or looking to impress guests with something simple yet elegant, this dish is sure to be a hit at any table.

Perfect for:

• Special dinners
• Weeknight meals
• Date nights
• Family gatherings
• Herb and cream lovers

Why You’ll Love This Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Here’s why Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce will quickly become one of your favorite dishes:

• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The sauce is luxuriously creamy, with the perfect balance of richness and flavor, enhanced by fresh basil.
• Tender Chicken: The chicken is perfectly cooked, juicy, and tender, making it a satisfying and hearty meal.
• Herbaceous Flavor: Fresh basil adds a bright and fragrant element that complements the richness of the cream and Parmesan.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together quickly with just a few ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.
• Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal that can be customized to your taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 6g, Fat: 30g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are tender and cook quickly, making them perfect for this dish.
• Heavy Cream: The heavy cream creates a rich, smooth sauce that envelops the chicken beautifully.
• Basil: Fresh basil adds a fragrant, herbaceous flavor that lifts the sauce and complements the creamy texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan brings a nutty, salty depth to the sauce, making it both savory and flavorful.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the sauce while helping to balance out the creaminess.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Basil Cream Sauce:

3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly.
5. Add the Cream and Parmesan: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Add the Basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of acidity, add the lemon juice here.

Combine Chicken and Sauce:

7. Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let the chicken warm in the sauce for 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve: Serve the chicken with the basil cream sauce spooned over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides:

• With Pasta: Serve the chicken and sauce over pasta, such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti, for a classic Italian-inspired meal.
• With Rice: Pair the dish with white or brown rice for a comforting, hearty option.
• With Vegetables: Serve alongside sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus to add some green and balance out the richness of the sauce.
• With Crusty Bread: A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy basil sauce.

Additional Tips for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Here are some tips to ensure your Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce turns out perfectly:

• Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil has the most aromatic and vibrant flavor, so avoid dried basil for the best results.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken just until it’s golden and cooked through. Overcooking can make it dry.
• Adjust the Consistency of the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little more chicken broth or a splash of milk.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
• Make Ahead: You can make the basil cream sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat and add the chicken before serving.

Recipe Variations for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Here are 5 variations you can try for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce:

• Lemon Basil Cream Sauce: Add more lemon juice and zest to the sauce for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Chicken in Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Cream Sauce: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a tangy, rich flavor.
• Chicken with Spinach and Basil Cream Sauce: Add fresh spinach to the sauce for added texture and flavor.
• Chicken with Mushrooms in Basil Cream Sauce: Sauté mushrooms with the garlic before adding the cream for an earthy flavor.
• Chicken with Roasted Red Pepper Basil Cream Sauce: Add roasted red pepper to the sauce for a sweet, smoky depth.

Freezing and Storage for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

• Freezing: While the sauce can be frozen, it may separate upon reheating. If you plan to freeze, store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Storage: Leftover chicken and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Special Equipment for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce easier:

• Skillet: A large skillet works best for cooking the chicken and making the sauce in one pan.
• Meat Thermometer: A thermometer ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly without overcooking.
• Whisk: A whisk is useful for stirring the cream and Parmesan into the sauce, ensuring it’s smooth and creamy.
• Tongs: Use tongs to easily flip the chicken while cooking.
• Chopping Board and Knife: For chopping the basil and garlic.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

1. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
   Fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, but you can substitute dried basil if needed. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil for every ¼ cup of fresh basil.
2. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
   Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.
3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts.
4. How do I know when the chicken is done?
   The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
5. Can I make this dish in advance?
   You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Cook the chicken just before serving.

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Conclusion

Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is an elegant yet simple dish that combines the best of creamy, herb-infused flavors with tender, juicy chicken. It’s the perfect choice for a quick weeknight meal, special occasion dinner, or when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something delicious. The rich, aromatic basil cream sauce takes the chicken to the next level, making each bite a flavorful experience.

This recipe is easy to prepare but feels like a special occasion dish, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. Serve it with your favorite side dishes, and savor the comforting, satisfying flavors.

I’d love to see how your Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!