basil cream chicken recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best basil cream chicken recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – the basil cream chicken. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become one of yours too.

The origins of this recipe are unclear, but I like to think it’s a fusion of Italian and American flavors. The creamy sauce and fresh basil notes make it a perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.

My kids love it when I serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or pasta, and my husband appreciates the simplicity of the ingredients. The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal preparation time.

Simply sauté some onions and garlic, add in your chicken, and let the magic happen as the sauce simmers away. The result is a dish that’s both flavorful and healthy – perfect for those looking to indulge without feeling guilty.

One thing I love about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it as a main course or even use the leftovers as a topping for salads or sandwiches.

Creamy Basil Chicken

4.5 from 1862 votes

A comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a rich, creamy basil sauce. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe combines the freshness of basil with the heartiness of chicken and cream.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
4Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
5In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
6Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
7Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
8Stir well to combine.
9Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
10Add fresh basil leaves to the skillet and stir to combine.
11Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the basil is wilted and the sauce is fragrant.
12Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the chicken, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is well combined.

🔧Equipment

Skillet
Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 8g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

Tips: Serve over pasta or rice for a complete meal. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition.

This basil cream chicken recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m confident it will become one of yours too.

It’s an excellent option for any occasion, whether you’re looking to impress guests or need a quick weeknight dinner solution.

The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or pasta, making it an easy addition to your meal planning routine.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Basil Chicken

Q: What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

A: You can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. If you prefer a leaner option, go with breasts; if you want more flavor and tenderness, choose thighs.

Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative?

A: Yes, you can use half-and-half or Greek yogurt as substitutes for heavy cream. Keep in mind that using lighter alternatives may affect the richness and creaminess of the sauce.

Q: How do I store leftover basil cream chicken?

A: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat by sautéing the chicken in a pan until warmed through.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time by making it without adding the chicken. Refrigerate or freeze until ready to serve.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: No, this recipe contains chicken and therefore is not suitable for vegetarians.

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