Introduction: Chicken with Basil Cream Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a creamy, herb-infused basil sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, as it offers a delightful combination of fresh basil, rich cream, and savory chicken. Learn how to make this delicious dish step-by-step, and impress your family and friends with a meal that tastes as
Why You’ll Love This Chicken with Basil Cream Sauce
There are plenty of reasons why this recipe is a winner! Here are just a few:
Easy to make: Ready in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavor-packed: Combines basil, garlic, and cream for a rich, satisfying taste.
Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
Impressive presentation: A beautiful dish that looks and tastes restaurant-worthy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
For the Basil Cream Sauce:
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Basil Cream Sauce
Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
Add liquids and basil: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Add cheese and season: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Add the chopped basil, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to taste. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors blend.
- Combine and Serve
Return chicken to skillet: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet with the basil cream sauce. Spoon some sauce over the chicken to coat it thoroughly.
Simmer and serve: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes. This helps infuse the flavors. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil leaves if desired.
Tips for Success
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Fresh basil: Fresh basil gives the best flavor. Avoid dried basil, as it won’t provide the same aromatic punch.
Heavy cream: Use heavy cream rather than milk or half-and-half for a rich, thick sauce.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt better and add a deeper flavor to the sauce.
Cooking Techniques
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Make sure the chicken breasts have enough space in the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than searing.
Let the sauce simmer: Don’t rush the sauce. Allowing it to simmer lets it thicken and develop a richer flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken with Basil Cream Sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some popular options:
Pasta: Serve over linguine or spaghetti to soak up the creamy sauce.
Rice: Plain rice or a wild rice blend balances the richness of the dish.
Vegetables: Steamed or roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans add color and nutrients.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: Approximately 450
Protein: 35g
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe, adding a richer flavor. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet, combining the chicken with the sauce, until warmed through.
Can I Substitute Basil?
If you’re not a fan of basil, consider using spinach or arugula for a milder taste. Note that it will change the flavor profile slightly but still works well.
Conclusion
Chicken with Basil Cream Sauce is a must-try recipe that’s easy, flavorful, and versatile. With a creamy sauce infused with fresh basil and garlic, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it out, and don’t forget to experiment with side dishes to create the perfect meal for any occasion!
