Catch the warm, inviting aroma of Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce wafting through your kitchen, where tender chicken dances in a creamy basil bath that’s so rich it could make a chocolate cake weep. Picture this: succulent pieces of chicken, enveloped in a velvety sauce infused with fragrant basil, garlic, and just a hint of lemon zest. The moment you take a bite, your taste buds are treated to a delightful explosion of flavors that feels like a warm hug from your grandma—if she were Italian and had a flair for creamy sauces.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
- REMEMBER
- How to Make Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What is Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce?
- How can I make Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce healthier?
- Can I use dried basil instead of fresh for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce?
- What should I serve with Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce?
- Conclusion for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, let me take you back to that one rainy Sunday afternoon when I decided to channel my inner chef. With nothing but some chicken breasts and a bundle of fresh basil from my garden, I unleashed this dish that turned my dreary day into an unforgettable culinary adventure. Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing that special someone (or just yourself), this dish will send you straight to flavor town with every forkful!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing chicken in basil cream sauce blends simplicity with elegance; it’s incredibly easy to prepare for any cooking skill level.
- The flavor profile is rich yet balanced, appealing to both adventurous eaters and picky palates.
- Visually stunning, the vibrant green basil against the creamy backdrop is sure to impress your guests.
- Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe fits any moment perfectly!
Ingredients for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts; they should be fresh and plump for the best results.
- Fresh Basil: Look for bright green leaves with no wilting; they are essential for that aromatic flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves work best; they add depth and an irresistible aroma.
- Heavy Cream: Opt for high-quality cream; it will give you that luscious texture we all crave.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed adds brightness and balances the richness of the cream.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enriching the sauce’s flavor.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté the chicken beautifully, adding extra flavor along the way.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those wonderful flavors!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the garlic finely and roughly tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces so they release their oils during cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season both sides of your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook them in the skillet until golden brown on both sides—about five minutes per side should do it.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Once your chicken is beautifully browned, toss in those minced garlic cloves. Sauté for another minute until they become fragrant but not burnt—nobody wants bitter garlic ruining our creamy dreams!
Step 4: Create That Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth while stirring gently. Add in the lemon juice and half of your torn basil leaves. Bring everything to a gentle simmer; let it bubble away while you sing along to your favorite cooking playlist.
Step 5: Finish It Off
Let the sauce reduce slightly until it thickens up nicely—about five more minutes will do! Stir in the remaining basil just before serving for that fresh pop of color and flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your succulent chicken onto plates and generously drizzle with creamy sauce. Serve alongside some fluffy rice or crusty bread to soak up every last drop!
With each mouthful of Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce, you’re not just enjoying dinner; you’re embarking on a culinary journey filled with warmth and happiness—a mini-vacation right at your dining table!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first until golden-brown perfection, then cook your pasta while you whip up that creamy basil sauce. This sequence keeps everything flowing smoothly, ensuring your dish is ready to impress in no time.
Add Your Touch
Want to jazz things up? Swap out chicken for turkey or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra kick! Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme to find your perfect flavor combination.
Storing & Reheating
To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth for that creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always start with room temperature chicken for even cooking.
- Avoid crowding the pan while searing to get that beautiful crust.
- And don’t forget to taste as you go; seasoning is key!
Sometimes, I whip up this dish just to hear my friends rave about it at dinner parties—it’s like being a rockstar without the fame, just delicious food bringing everyone together!
FAQs:
What is Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce?
Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a delicious dish that features tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich and creamy sauce infused with fresh basil. This recipe typically uses ingredients like heavy cream, garlic, and chicken broth, creating a comforting meal that pairs well with pasta or rice. The vibrant flavor of basil elevates the dish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
How can I make Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce healthier?
To make Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce healthier, consider using lean cuts of chicken breast and substituting heavy cream with a lighter option like coconut milk or low-fat yogurt. You can also increase the amount of vegetables by adding spinach or bell peppers to the sauce. These adjustments will reduce calories while still delivering great flavor.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce?
While fresh basil offers the best flavor for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce, you can use dried basil if necessary. Typically, dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount compared to fresh. Keep in mind that the taste may differ slightly, but it will still create a flavorful dish.
What should I serve with Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce?
Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce pairs well with various side dishes. Consider serving it over al dente pasta, fluffy rice, or creamy mashed potatoes. It also complements steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added nutrition and color on your plate.
Conclusion for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce:
In summary, Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich basil-infused cream sauce. By following this recipe and considering some healthy alternatives, you can enjoy a flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you serve it over pasta or alongside vegetables, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that showcases tender chicken breasts drenched in a rich, creamy basil-infused sauce. This recipe combines fresh ingredients for an explosion of flavor, making it perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests. With its vibrant colors and aromatic essence, each bite feels like a warm embrace. Serve it over pasta or rice for an unforgettable meal that transforms any occasion into a culinary celebration.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping the garlic and tearing the basil leaves.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown (about 5 minutes per side).
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for one minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; stir in lemon juice and half the basil leaves. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes.
- Let the sauce thicken slightly, then stir in the remaining basil just before serving.
- Plate the chicken, drizzle with sauce, and enjoy with rice or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (170g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
