Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: chicken in basil cream sauce! There’s just something magical about that velvety cream sauce infused with fresh basil that takes simple chicken breasts to a whole new level. I remember the first time I made this dish—it was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and the smell of garlic and basil wafting through my kitchen felt like a warm hug. Every bite is like a little piece of Italy on your plate! The rich, creamy sauce blends perfectly with the tender chicken, and it’s so quick to whip up, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it before. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to create your delicious chicken in basil cream sauce:
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup heavy cream, for that rich and creamy texture
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (trust me, fresh is key for the best flavor!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for sautéing
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (the more garlic, the better, right?)
- Salt to taste, to enhance all those yummy flavors
- Pepper to taste, because a little kick makes everything better!
Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking, as it really makes the process smooth and enjoyable!
How to Prepare Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Now, let’s dive into making this creamy dream of a dish! First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. You want that oil to shimmer but not smoke—give it a minute or so. Once it’s ready, toss in your minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until it’s fragrant. Ooh, can you smell that?
Next, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Carefully place them in the pan and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through. Don’t rush this part; that golden color adds so much flavor!
Once your chicken is cooked, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir in the chopped basil. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This is where the magic happens—the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
When it’s done, serve it hot with the luscious sauce draped over the chicken. Enjoy every creamy bite—you deserve it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich, creamy sauce that elevates the humble chicken to gourmet status.
- Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and aroma—just heavenly!
- Low-carb and gluten-free, so it fits nicely into various diets.
- One pan means less cleanup, making it a win-win for you!
- Versatile enough to pair with pasta, rice, or even a fresh salad.
Tips for Success
To really nail this chicken in basil cream sauce, here are my top tips! First, always use fresh basil—dried just won’t cut it here. If you can, tear the basil leaves instead of chopping them; it releases more flavor and keeps the sauce vibrant. Also, don’t rush the browning of your chicken; that little bit of caramelization adds depth and richness to the dish. If you want to kick it up a notch, try adding a splash of white wine after browning the chicken before pouring in the cream—yum! And remember, taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking, because everyone’s palate is different. Enjoy the process, and your dish will shine!
Variations of Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of fun ways to switch up this chicken in basil cream sauce! For starters, why not toss in some vibrant veggies? Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or artichoke hearts can add color and nutrition, plus they soak up all that delicious sauce. If you’d like to try a different protein, shrimp or even slices of salmon work beautifully in this creamy concoction. You can also experiment with flavors—add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty twist. The possibilities are endless! Make it your own and enjoy discovering new favorites!
Nutritional Information
Before you dig in, here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for my chicken in basil cream sauce. Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose, so this is just a general guide:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Cholesterol: 120mg
So, whether you’re counting macros or just looking to enjoy a delicious meal, this dish fits beautifully into many diets!
Serving Suggestions
This chicken in basil cream sauce is so versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! For a classic combo, serve it over al dente pasta—think fettuccine or penne—so it can soak up that creamy goodness. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a fluffy bed of rice, whether white or brown, works just as beautifully. You could also add a fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sauce. And don’t forget some crusty bread for dipping—trust me, you’ll want to savor every last drop of that delicious sauce!
FAQ About Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Sure! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking and best texture.
What if I don’t have fresh basil? If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil, but use it sparingly—about a teaspoon, since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How can I make this dish lighter? You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream. Just keep in mind the sauce may not be as thick or rich.
Can I make this in advance? Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just add a splash of cream while reheating to refresh the sauce.
What can I do with leftovers? Leftovers are perfect for a quick lunch! Toss them into a salad or serve them over rice or pasta for another delicious meal!
creamy garlic parmesan pasta is a great side dish to complement this recipe. For more delicious chicken recipes, check out chicken piccata. If you’re interested in the health benefits of basil, you can learn more about it here.
Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce: 5 Steps to Culinary Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chicken cooked in a creamy basil sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Add chicken to the pan and cook until browned.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir in chopped basil.
- Simmer for 10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot with sauce poured over the chicken.
Notes
- Use fresh basil for better flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Serve with pasta or rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: chicken in basil cream sauce
