The Creamiest Basil Chicken Recipe That’s Bursting With Flavor

Whipping up a delectable basil chicken dish promises pure culinary magic for hungry souls seeking comfort.

Aromatic herbs dance through tender meat, creating layers of mouthwatering flavor.

Italian kitchens have long celebrated such simple yet remarkable combinations.

Fresh ingredients make all the difference when crafting memorable meals.

Vibrant green basil leaves bring unexpected brightness to classic chicken preparations.

Smooth, rich sauces complement the protein’s natural tenderness perfectly.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this irresistible creation.

Essentials in Creamy Basil Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: Tender cuts of meat that form the main protein base of this creamy dish.

• Heavy Cream, Parmesan Cheese: Rich dairy products that create a smooth and luxurious sauce with a deep, nutty flavor.

• Basil, Garlic, Salt, Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Fresh and dried ingredients that provide aromatic depth, warmth, and subtle heat to the chicken dish.

• Olive Oil: A heart-healthy oil that helps cook the chicken and provides a smooth cooking surface.

Cooking Creamy Basil Chicken with Ease

Step 1: Sizzle The Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high temperature.

Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over chicken breasts.

Carefully place chicken into the hot pan and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side.

Transfer chicken to a separate plate.

Step 2: Awaken The Garlic

In the same skillet, drop minced garlic and swirl around, releasing its aromatic magic for about 1 minute.

Step 3: Craft Luxurious Cream Sauce

Reduce heat to medium.

Pour heavy cream and let it gently bubble.

• Chopped basil
• Parmesan cheese
• Red pepper flakes

Stir occasionally and let the sauce thicken beautifully for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Reunite Chicken With Sauce

Slide cooked chicken back into the skillet, bathing it completely in the luscious basil cream sauce.

Allow everything to simmer together for 2-3 minutes, letting flavors dance and mingle.

Step 5: Present Your Masterpiece

Plate the chicken immediately, showering with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, herbaceous sensation.

Helpful Additions for Creamy Basil Chicken

• Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels before seasoning to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in moisture and flavor.
• Simmer the cream sauce gently to prevent separation, stirring constantly and keeping heat low to maintain a smooth, creamy texture.
• Use fresh basil leaves instead of dried for a more vibrant, aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish's taste profile.
• Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version that works perfectly for keto and low-carb diets.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally, guaranteeing safe and perfectly cooked protein without drying out the meat.

Creamy Basil Chicken Storage Made Easy

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Separate the chicken from the sauce to prevent soggy texture.
• Wrap individual portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Frozen chicken can last up to 2 months. Avoid freezing cream-based sauces, as they may separate.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken in a baking dish, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying. Cover with foil and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Reheat in short 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Add a tablespoon of cream or broth to maintain moisture. Stop heating once the chicken reaches 165°F to prevent overcooking.

Side Ideas for Creamy Basil Chicken Plates

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a chardonnay or pinot grigio to complement the creamy, herbaceous sauce and cut through the richness of the dish.
• Serve with Roasted Garlic Asparagus: Create a perfect side that echoes the garlic notes in the chicken while adding a fresh, green vegetable element to balance the creamy sauce.
• Match with Herbed Focaccia Bread: Provide a crusty, aromatic bread that can soak up the delicious basil cream sauce and add a textural contrast to the tender chicken.
• Choose Lemon Herb Quinoa: Develop a light, zesty grain side that brings brightness and additional herb flavor to complement the basil and creamy sauce of the chicken.

New Versions of Creamy Basil Chicken

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a lactose-free option. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to maintain a creamy texture.
• Low-Carb Companion: Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for added richness. Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to reduce carbohydrate intake.
• Herb Garden Remix: Experiment with different fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or tarragon instead of basil. Mix and match herbs to create unique flavor profiles that complement the creamy sauce.
• Spice Lover's Version: Increase red pepper flakes for extra heat. Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the spice level and create a more intense flavor experience.

FAQs

• Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

While fresh basil provides the best flavor, you can substitute with dried basil. Use about 1/3 of the amount of fresh basil called for in the recipe. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

• Is this dish spicy?

The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can control the heat level. If you want no spice, simply omit the red pepper flakes. If you like a mild kick, add a small pinch; for more heat, increase the amount.

• What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. They cook evenly and absorb the creamy sauce perfectly. If you prefer, you can also use chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor.

• Can I make this recipe low-fat?

To reduce calories, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich and may not thicken as well. Use a low-fat Parmesan cheese to further reduce the fat content.

Creamy Basil Chicken with Bright Flavor

• Packed with aromatic basil, creamy Parmesan, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes, this chicken delivers a mouthwatering taste experience in every bite.
• Ready in under 30 minutes, this one-skillet meal solves dinner dilemmas for busy families and professionals craving a delicious, home-cooked meal without complicated preparation.
• Easily adaptable for different dietary preferences and sure to satisfy both picky eaters and sophisticated palates with its rich, comforting flavors.

Creamy Basil Chicken Recipe

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4.9 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent basil chicken dances with rich cream sauce, creating a Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece that elevates weeknight dinners. Herb-infused and luxurious, this dish will transport you to sun-drenched Italian kitchens with its irresistible blend of flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680 grams)

Dairy:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) Parmesan cheese, grated

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) fresh lemon juice
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Carefully blot chicken breasts with paper towels, generously seasoning both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Warm olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Gently place seasoned chicken and cook approximately 6-7 minutes per side, achieving a rich golden-brown exterior and ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low, then introduce finely minced garlic to the same skillet, sautéing until aromatic and slightly translucent, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour heavy cream into the skillet, whisking in freshly chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow mixture to gently simmer, stirring consistently until sauce thickens and becomes velvety, roughly 3-4 minutes.
5. Splash in bright lemon juice, adjusting seasoning with additional salt and pepper to enhance flavor profile.
6. Carefully return cooked chicken to the skillet, delicately coating each piece with the luscious cream sauce. Let chicken warm through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Transfer to serving plates, garnishing with additional torn basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an elegant presentation.

Notes

• Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts of even thickness to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dry edges.
• Pat chicken completely dry before seasoning to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and crispy exterior.
• Adjust heat carefully when making the sauce to prevent cream from separating or burning, maintaining a gentle simmer.
• Customize the dish by using lighter cream alternatives like half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a healthier version.

• 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: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 46g
• Cholesterol: 180mg