Description
Succulent chicken nestles in a luxurious basil cream sauce, creating a Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece that whispers elegance. Rich herbal notes and velvety texture invite you to savor each memorable bite of pure culinary comfort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Dairy and Sauce:
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Aromatics:
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (30 g) fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare a large skillet and heat olive oil over medium-high temperature until it shimmers. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked through. Transfer chicken to a separate plate.
- In the same skillet, introduce minced garlic and quickly toast for approximately 60 seconds, releasing its aromatic essence without browning.
- Reduce heat to medium and pour heavy cream, allowing it to gently bubble. Incorporate chopped basil, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes, stirring consistently until the sauce develops a slightly thickened consistency.
- Carefully nestle the previously cooked chicken back into the creamy basil sauce, ensuring each piece gets thoroughly coated. Allow the chicken to warm through and absorb the flavor profile for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Plate the chicken immediately, drizzling any remaining sauce over the top. Enhance the presentation by scattering fresh basil leaves and sprinkling extra Parmesan cheese as an optional garnish.
Notes
- Chicken Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Sauce Consistency Control: If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out while maintaining creaminess.
- Herb Freshness Matters: Always use fresh basil for the most vibrant flavor; dried basil can be substituted but will have a less intense taste profile.
- Low-Carb Adaptation: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carbohydrate version of the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 150mg