Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish perfect for a comforting dinner. Tender chicken breasts are lightly seasoned and pan-fried, then smothered in a creamy basil-infused sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables, making it a versatile and satisfying meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then dredge them lightly in flour, shaking off the excess.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Incorporate Basil: Stir in the fresh basil and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 more minutes, coating the chicken with the sauce.
Serve: Plate the chicken and drizzle it with the basil cream sauce. Serve with your choice of side dish, such as pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: ~450
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 450mg

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This recipe is a must-try for several reasons:

Rich and Creamy Flavor – The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and basil creates a luscious sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
Easy to Make – With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
Versatile Pairing – This chicken dish goes well with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables, making it easy to adapt to different meal preferences.
Restaurant-Quality at Home – The creamy basil sauce gives this dish an elegant touch, making it perfect for date nights or dinner parties.

The Key to Perfect Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Choosing the Right Chicken

For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook quickly and evenly, absorbing the flavors of the sauce. If you prefer juicier meat, you can also use chicken thighs, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted.

Seasoning and Cooking the Chicken

Lightly seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper and dredging it in flour before pan-frying helps create a golden-brown crust. This not only enhances the texture but also helps thicken the sauce later when combined with the cream. Cooking the chicken over medium heat ensures it stays tender without drying out.

The Magic of the Basil Cream Sauce

The sauce is the highlight of this dish. Here’s what makes it so special:

Garlic and Chicken Broth – Adds a deep, savory base to the sauce.
Heavy Cream and Parmesan – Creates a thick, velvety texture with a slight cheesy richness.
Fresh Basil – Brings a fresh, aromatic flavor that balances the creaminess of the sauce.

Adding a touch of red pepper flakes can also provide a gentle heat, elevating the overall taste of the dish.

Best Side Dishes to Serve With Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

This dish is incredibly versatile, pairing well with a variety of sides:

Pasta

Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of fettuccine, linguine, or penne to soak up all the creamy goodness.
A drizzle of extra Parmesan cheese over the pasta enhances the overall richness.

Rice or Grains

Steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice make a great neutral base for the dish.
For a heartier option, try serving it with quinoa or couscous.

Roasted or Steamed Vegetables

Roasted asparagus, broccoli, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes complement the creamy sauce.
A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the dish.

Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls

Use crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Use Fresh Basil – While dried basil works, fresh basil provides the best flavor and aroma. Add it toward the end of cooking to preserve its freshness.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Cooking the chicken just until it reaches 165°F (75°C) ensures it stays juicy and tender.
Simmer the Sauce Gently – Avoid boiling the sauce, as high heat can cause it to separate or become too thick. A gentle simmer allows the flavors to blend smoothly.
Customize the Spice Level – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper if you prefer a little extra heat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them properly to maintain freshness:

Refrigeration: Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing: The dish can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the cream sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. Stir well when reheating to restore its consistency.

Reheating

Stovetop: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to thin the sauce.
Microwave: Heat in short 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent overheating.

Variations and Substitutions

Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of butter for a lower-calorie option.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk and use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
Protein Swap: Try this sauce with shrimp, salmon, or tofu for a different twist.

Conclusion

Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a dish that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. The combination of creamy sauce, aromatic basil, and tender chicken creates a comforting meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether served over pasta, rice, or alongside vegetables, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a favorite in your home.

If you’re looking for a meal that is elegant yet easy to prepare, this recipe is the perfect choice. Give it a try, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner right in your own kitchen!

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