Basil Cream Chicken: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner
Indulge in Basil Cream Chicken: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner, where tender chicken breasts meet a creamy basil-infused sauce. This dish is not only a fantastic option for weeknight dinners but also shines on special occasions. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s bound to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the chicken.
- Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables to suit any meal or occasion.
- Impressive Presentation: The creamy sauce and vibrant basil make this dish look as good as it tastes, ideal for hosting guests.
- Customizable: Adjust the heat with red pepper flakes or add your favorite veggies to the sauce for extra nutrition.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet allows even cooking and browning of the chicken while providing enough space for the sauce.
- Cooking Spoon: A sturdy spoon is essential for stirring the cream sauce without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements help achieve the perfect balance of flavors in your dish.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cream Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How to Make Basil Cream Chicken: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Take the chicken breasts out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet, avoiding overcrowding.
– Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on one side until golden brown.
– Flip the chicken and cook for another 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
– Remove the chicken from the skillet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
– Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with garlic. Let it come to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
– Add chopped basil, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Let the sauce simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes. Adjust consistency with chicken broth or water if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if necessary.
– Return cooked chicken breasts to skillet and spoon sauce over them.
– Allow chicken to simmer in sauce for about 2-3 minutes to absorb flavors.
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately or keep on low heat while preparing sides. Enjoy your delicious Basil Cream Chicken!
How to Serve Basil Cream Chicken: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner
Basil Cream Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Serving it right can elevate your dining experience, making it feel more special. Here are some delicious ideas on how to serve this creamy delight.
With Pasta
- Fettuccine or Linguine: Toss cooked pasta in the basil cream sauce for a rich and filling meal.
- Penne Arrabbiata: The spicy tomato sauce contrasts nicely with the creamy chicken, offering a delightful flavor combination.
Over Rice
- White Rice: A simple side that soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Wild Rice Pilaf: Adds texture and nutty flavors that complement the chicken.
Accompanied by Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy crunch to the plate.
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender, asparagus adds elegance and color.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Extra Basil Leaves: A few fresh leaves on top enhance the dish’s visual appeal and flavor.
- Chopped Parsley: Bright green parsley can add a refreshing touch to the creamy sauce.

How to Perfect Basil Cream Chicken: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner
Achieving the perfect Basil Cream Chicken requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil, garlic, and high-quality cream will elevate the flavors significantly.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on cooking times to prevent dry chicken. Use a meat thermometer for precision.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Always taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: Letting your sauce simmer gently helps blend flavors without breaking down ingredients.
Best Side Dishes for Basil Cream Chicken: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner
Pairing Basil Cream Chicken with the right sides can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent options that complement this creamy dish well.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce; it’s a classic choice that everyone loves.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing adds a refreshing crunch against the rich chicken.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort and are great for mopping up that delicious sauce.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini is light yet satisfying when paired with creamy chicken.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad with veggies provides a healthy contrast to the richness of the dish.
- Sautéed Spinach: Wilted spinach drizzled with olive oil gives an earthy note that balances well with creaminess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Basil Cream Chicken can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Skipping the resting time: Letting chicken breasts rest before cooking helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. Avoid cooking them straight from the fridge.
- Overcrowding the skillet: Cooking too many chicken breasts at once can lower the skillet’s temperature, preventing a proper sear. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Ignoring seasoning: Seasoning is key! Don’t forget to season both sides of the chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Not letting the sauce simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer allows flavors to develop. Avoid rushing this step for a richer taste.
- Cutting into the chicken too soon: Cutting into the chicken right after cooking can release juices. Let it rest a few minutes before slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Basil Cream Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Basil Cream Chicken: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner
- Freeze Basil Cream Chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- It can be stored for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Basil Cream Chicken: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, then add chicken and cover until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Basil Cream Chicken.
How do I make Basil Cream Chicken more flavorful?
Adding extra herbs like thyme or oregano can enhance flavor. You may also consider marinating your chicken beforehand.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, but use less dried basil than fresh as it’s more concentrated. About one tablespoon of dried basil is equivalent to one cup of fresh.
What sides go well with Basil Cream Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it with garlic bread.
How long does it take to prepare Basil Cream Chicken?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes of prep time and about 20 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 35 minutes.
Can I customize the cream sauce?
Absolutely! Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture in your cream sauce.
Final Thoughts
Basil Cream Chicken is an easy yet impressive dish that brings delightful flavors to your dinner table. Its creamy basil sauce perfectly complements tender chicken, making it suitable for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides to enhance its appeal even further!

Basil Cream Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in a culinary delight with Basil Cream Chicken, a deliciously easy recipe perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. This dish features tender chicken breasts enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce infused with fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. With its quick preparation time of just 35 minutes, you can impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Served over pasta or alongside steamed vegetables, this meal is versatile enough to suit any palate. Elevate your dining experience with the vibrant flavors of this creamy basil chicken that promises to leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Let chicken breasts sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F).
- Remove chicken from skillet and cover loosely with foil.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Stir in heavy cream and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add chopped basil, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and seasonings. Stir well to combine.
- Return chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (200g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 150mg