This Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce is a simple yet flavorful dish. Juicy chicken breast cooked in a creamy sauce with fresh basil is perfect for any dinner!
You won’t believe how quick this comes together! I love serving it over rice or pasta for a cozy meal. It feels fancy but is actually super easy—just like inviting your friends over for takeout! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier option. They take a bit longer to cook but add more flavor.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Just note that coconut cream will add a slight flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil is a must for vibrant flavor. If you can’t find it, dried basil works too. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil, since it’s more concentrated in flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty kick. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Just skip the cheese if you’re avoiding dairy altogether.
How Do I Get Perfectly Breaded Chicken?
Getting that golden, crispy crust is key to making this dish shine! Here’s how to bread the chicken effectively:
- First, always start with dry hands and a clean surface. It helps the coating to stick better.
- Dredge your chicken thoroughly in flour to create a base; this helps the egg to adhere.
- Make sure to let the excess flour shake off before moving to the eggs. Too much flour will make the egg wash clump.
- After coating with breadcrumbs, press them on firmly for better sticking. It’s all about getting a good seal!
- Fry on medium heat, giving the chicken enough time to develop that crispiness without burning. Don’t overcrowd the skillet!
These tips will help ensure your chicken turns out perfectly every time, giving you that crunchy texture paired with creamy sauce.
Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
Breading Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
For the Creamy Basil Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Side:
- Steamed broccoli or your choice of vegetable for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken dish will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have it ready to enjoy in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step adds flavor right from the start!
2. Preparing the Breading Stations:
Set up three shallow bowls. In the first, place the flour. In the second, beat the eggs until smooth. In the third, add the seasoned breadcrumbs. Keep everything organized for easy dipping!
3. Bread the Chicken:
Start with the first chicken breast and coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken evenly with the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them stick. Repeat with the remaining breasts.
4. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep them warm.
5. Making the Creamy Basil Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but not burnt. Then, pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, to get a nice creamy base for your sauce.
6. Adding Flavor:
Mix in the chopped basil, garlic powder, onion powder, and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring gently until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the creamy basil sauce generously over each piece. Allow it to warm through for another 1-2 minutes.
8. Serving:
Serve your chicken topped with the creamy basil sauce alongside steamed broccoli or your favorite vegetable. Enjoy the creamy, flavorful delight!
Now, dig in and savor every bite of your Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce!
FAQ for Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts before cooking. The best method is to transfer them to the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also thaw them quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
To make the recipe dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative, like coconut cream or cashew cream. For the Parmesan cheese, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Can I Use Dried Basil Instead of Fresh?
Yes, dried basil can be used instead of fresh. For this recipe, use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil since it is more concentrated in flavor. Just remember to add it a bit earlier in the cooking process to allow the flavors to meld.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
