My culinary journey started not in a Michelin-starred kitchen, but in my disastrous attempts to recreate my grandmother’s recipes. Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce: An Incredibly Amazing Recipe, however, is a triumph. This dish is a testament to my evolved cooking skills, a testament that even I can create something truly delicious. This recipe is surprisingly easy and produces incredibly flavorful results, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fancy dinner party.
This incredibly easy recipe will transform your weeknight dinner into a culinary adventure. The rich, creamy sauce complements the tender chicken beautifully. Imagine the fragrant basil, the velvety cream, all dancing on your tongue. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable taste sensation.
It’s incredibly easy to prepare.
It boasts a vibrant and intensely flavorful profile.
The creamy sauce and tender chicken create a stunning visual presentation.
It’s incredibly versatile; you can serve it with pasta, rice, or even roasted vegetables.
Ingredients for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce: An Incredibly Amazing Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce: An Incredibly Amazing Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Building the Sauce
Stir in the chopped basil and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Creamy Perfection
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. If using agar-agar, whisk it in now according to package instructions. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the parmesan cheese (if using) during the last minute and stir until melted.
Step 5: Combining Chicken and Sauce
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy basil sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and absorb the flavors.
Step 6: Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce immediately over your favorite pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves for an elegant touch.
Recipe Card for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce: An Incredibly Amazing Recipe
This section would contain a printable recipe card with all ingredients and instructions clearly listed with measurements. (This would be visually appealing and easy to print).
Tips and Variations for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce: An Incredibly Amazing Recipe
Don’t be afraid to experiment! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or substitute sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper, richer flavor. You can also use different types of chicken, like chicken thighs, for a richer, more flavorful dish. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce: An Incredibly Amazing Recipe
This section would answer frequently asked questions, such as substitutions for ingredients, how to make it vegan, tips for achieving the perfect creamy consistency, and more. (Include a Q&A format).
Conclusion: Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce: An Incredibly Amazing Recipe
This recipe is my go-to dish for a reason. It’s easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. Remember to share your culinary creations on social media and tag me – I’d love to see your versions of this incredibly amazing recipe!
Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken breasts until golden brown, then set aside. While the chicken rests, cook your pasta according to package directions. Simultaneously, prepare the basil cream sauce. Combine the sauce with the cooked pasta and chicken for a quick and delicious meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the basil for spinach or parsley. Experiment with different cheeses like parmesan or asiago. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a saucepan on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to restore moisture.
Use fresh basil for the best flavor. Avoid overcooking the chicken; it should be juicy and tender. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
My aunt raved about this Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce after I made it for her birthday. She said it was the best chicken dish she’d ever had.
(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading (very important! don’t write any title for this paragraph))
I first made this Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce for my aunt’s birthday. Her reaction? Pure bliss. She declared it the best chicken dish ever.
Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
: A Recipe for Culinary Bliss
This recipe for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s a journey. A culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds to a sun-drenched Italian villa, even if your kitchen is more “cozy cottage” than “Tuscan palazzo.” We’re talking creamy, dreamy, intensely flavorful goodness. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for those of us who consider burnt toast a culinary achievement.
Ingredients You’ll Need (for 4 servings)
Four boneless, skinless chicken breasts
One pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
One cup heavy cream (or substitute with full-fat coconut milk for a vegan option)
Two cups fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (more if you’re a basil fiend like me!)
One-fourth cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
Two cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
Two tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional: One-fourth cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (for an extra punch of flavor)
Preparing the Chicken
: A Symphony of Sizzling
First things first, the star of our show: the chicken. Pat those chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving that beautiful, golden-brown sear. Season generously with salt and pepper. Trust me, don’t be shy with the seasoning.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely browned. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. This is where the magic happens – that delicious sear develops a lovely crust, locking in the juicy goodness. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. We’ll come back to it later.
Crafting the Creamy Basil Sauce
: A Verdant Delight
While the chicken rests, let’s create the sauce that will make this dish legendary. In the same skillet (no need to wash it!), add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Don’t let it burn; we want that garlic flavor, not that charred, bitter taste.
Now, pour in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and add the chopped basil. Stir gently and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the basil to infuse its vibrant flavor into the creamy sauce. The longer it simmers, the more intense the flavor will be. Stir in the Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your liking – remember, taste is king!
The Grand Finale
: Combining the Culinary Masterpieces
By now, your pasta should be cooked al dente. Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the basil cream sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. This is where the magic happens – the creamy sauce clings to every strand of pasta, creating a symphony of flavors and textures.
Finally, add the seared chicken breasts to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the chicken is well-coated with the luscious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, stir in those sun-dried tomatoes for an explosion of Mediterranean flavors. Serve immediately and garnish with extra basil if desired.
Tips for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Success
Choose high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Don’t overcook the pasta. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this heavenly Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce as a complete meal. A simple side salad would complement this dish beautifully, or perhaps some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy! This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for any occasion. Remember, this Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. So, go ahead, treat yourself to a taste of culinary bliss.
Conclusion for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce: An Incredibly Amazing Recipe
This Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce recipe is a winner, offering a simple yet elegant dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The creamy sauce, infused with the fragrant aroma of basil, beautifully complements the tender chicken. Its versatility allows for easy customization and pairing with various sides, ensuring a satisfying meal every time. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed! And remember, the key to a great dish is a little love and maybe a sprinkle of extra basil.
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Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce: An Incredibly Amazing Recipe
Delicious chicken in basil cream sauce: an incredibly amazing recipe recipe with detailed instructions and nutritional information.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Step 2: Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Stir in the thawed and squeezed spinach into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese and basil. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened.
- Step 5: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the basil cream sauce. Simmer for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 6: Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to maintain a creamy consistency.
- Serve this incredibly amazing Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce over creamy polenta for an extra decadent experience.
- To intensify the basil flavor, add a few extra leaves towards the end of cooking, and consider using a good quality pesto in addition to or instead of the fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
FAQs
Can I make this Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe is even better the next day. Prepare the chicken and sauce as directed. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just be careful not to overcook it; you want it to be warm and delicious, not dry and sad. A quick stir will help to redistribute the creamy basil sauce.
What can I serve with Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce?
The possibilities are endless! This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, like fettuccine or tagliatelle. It’s also delicious served over rice, polenta, or even mashed potatoes. For a lighter meal, consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. Don’t be afraid to get creative; the creamy basil sauce complements a wide variety of sides.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
While fresh basil is ideal, you can certainly use dried basil in a pinch. However, remember that dried herbs are more potent than fresh, so you’ll want to use less. Start with about 1/4 to 1/3 the amount of dried basil called for in the recipe and adjust to taste. You might also consider adding a pinch of dried oregano or thyme to enhance the flavor profile.
Is this Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce freezes beautifully. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Be mindful that the sauce might thicken slightly upon freezing, so you may need to add a little bit of broth or milk to loosen it up if needed.