Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce – Easy & Creamy Dinner Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that combines tender, golden-brown chicken with a rich and velvety basil-infused cream sauce. This Chicken in Basil Cream is a dish that looks and tastes fancy, yet it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner for your family or looking to impress guests with a delicious meal, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. The creamy sauce, infused with fresh basil and Parmesan, pairs perfectly with a variety of sides, making it adaptable to different preferences. You can serve it over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a kid-friendly dish that even picky eaters will love. The crispy chicken combined with the creamy sauce creates an irresistible texture and flavor that’s hard to resist.

Another reason to love this recipe is that it uses simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. With just a few pantry staples and fresh basil, you can create a gourmet-style dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The balance of garlic, Parmesan, and basil in the sauce adds depth and complexity, while the crispy chicken provides a satisfying crunch. If you’ve been searching for a go-to creamy chicken recipe, this one will not disappoint!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken in Basil Cream Recipe

There are so many reasons why this Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce should be on your regular meal rotation. First and foremost, it’s quick and easy to make. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something delicious but don’t have a lot of time. Unlike many creamy chicken dishes, this one doesn’t require any complicated techniques, so even beginner cooks can make it with confidence.

Another reason this dish is a must-try is its incredible flavor. The sauce is rich, creamy, and infused with fresh basil, creating a beautiful balance between comfort food and fresh, herby goodness. The Parmesan cheese adds a slightly nutty, salty touch, while the garlic enhances the overall depth of the sauce. Every bite is packed with layers of flavor, making it feel like a dish straight out of a high-end restaurant.

This dish is also highly versatile. While it’s delicious as is, you can easily modify it to suit your tastes. If you prefer a little heat, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to spice things up. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can serve it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta. Plus, you can use different cheeses, herbs, or even a squeeze of lemon to brighten up the dish even more.

Lastly, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for kids, adults, or guests with refined palates, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. The combination of crispy chicken and creamy sauce makes it satisfying and indulgent, while the fresh basil keeps it from feeling too heavy. If you need a meal that’s both impressive and easy to make, this is the perfect choice!

Preparation Time & Servings of this Chicken in Basil Cream

This recipe is designed to be quick and fuss-free, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~450 kcal

Ingredients of this Chicken in Basil Cream 

To make this delicious Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce, you’ll need a handful of simple and flavorful ingredients.

For the Chicken Cutlets:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half to make 4 cutlets)
• ½ cup milk
• ¾ cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Basil Cream Sauce:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions to make the Chicken in Basil Cream

1. Prepare & Cook the Chicken Cutlets

To begin, you’ll need to prepare the chicken. Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. This step ensures that the chicken cooks quickly and evenly, preventing it from drying out. If the cutlets are uneven, gently pound them to about ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

Next, season the chicken with salt and black pepper. Then, dip each cutlet in milk, allowing any excess to drip off. After that, press each cutlet into Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, ensuring a thorough and even coating. The milk helps the breadcrumbs adhere, creating a crispy, golden-brown crust when cooked.

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once the butter is sizzling, add the breaded chicken cutlets. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Avoid moving the chicken too much while it cooks—this will help develop a beautifully crisp crust. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.

2. Make the Basil Cream Sauce

Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can make the sauce taste bitter.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. This step enhances the sauce by adding extra depth and flavor. After about a minute, stir in the heavy whipping cream and bring the mixture to a slight boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.

Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let the sauce cook for another 2–3 minutes until it’s rich and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.

3. Serve & Enjoy!

Now that the sauce is ready, return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over each piece. Let it sit for about a minute so the flavors can meld together. To serve, plate the chicken and generously drizzle more basil cream sauce on top. Garnish with extra basil and Parmesan for an elegant finish.

Serving Suggestions of this Chicken in Basil Cream

This dish is incredibly versatile, and there are plenty of ways to serve it:

Over Pasta: Serve with angel hair, fettuccine, or penne to soak up the creamy sauce.
With Vegetables: Try steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach.
With Rice or Mashed Potatoes: Perfect for a hearty meal.
With Crusty Bread: Ideal for mopping up that delicious sauce!

Tips & Variations

Make-Ahead Tip: Cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and make a fresh batch of sauce.

Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to cut down on fat and calories.

Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of Italian seasoning or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the sauce.

Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

Cheese Swap: Try Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a slightly saltier, sharper flavor.

Low-Carb Option: Skip the pasta and serve this over zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will work just as well, though they may need an extra few minutes to cook since they tend to be thicker and juicier. If using boneless, skinless thighs, cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by using coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream substitute. You can also swap out Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast. While the taste will be slightly different, it will still be creamy and delicious.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?

If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, though fresh basil provides the best flavor. Use 1 tablespoon of dried basil in place of the ¼ cup of fresh basil. Another option is to replace the basil with fresh parsley, thyme, or a little spinach for a similar fresh element.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by letting it simmer for an extra few minutes. Alternatively, you can mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water, then stir it into the sauce while it’s simmering. The sauce should thicken up within a minute or two.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken ahead of time by breading and cooking it, then refrigerating it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in a skillet or oven and prepare the sauce fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately to maintain the best texture. Store cooked chicken in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. The sauce can also be frozen, but it may separate slightly when thawed. Stir well while reheating to bring it back to a creamy consistency.

How do I store leftovers of Chicken in Basil Cream?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F for about 8 minutes. The sauce can be reheated in a small pan—if it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up.

What side dishes go best with this chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, including pasta, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, jasmine rice, or even garlic bread. A light side salad with a lemon vinaigrette is also a great complement to balance out the richness of the sauce.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version, or use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour as a coating. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is an absolute game-changer when it comes to easy yet impressive home-cooked meals. The combination of crispy, golden chicken and luxurious basil cream sauce makes every bite irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re making it for a simple dinner or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Try it out, and let me know what you think!

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