There’s something magical about dishes that combine simplicity with elegance, and this Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is one of those recipes. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening or a romantic dinner without needing a fancy reservation. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is bound to impress.

The creamy basil sauce, with its fragrant herbs and luscious texture, pairs beautifully with the tender chicken, making every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a crusty loaf of bread to soak up every last drop of that dreamy sauce.

Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to bring this delicious dish to life in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Meets Sophistication: This dish feels special but is easy enough to make on a weeknight.
• Bursting with Flavor: The basil-infused cream sauce is rich, aromatic, and perfectly balanced.
• Customizable: Pair it with your favorite sides or swap ingredients to fit your dietary needs.
• Family-Friendly: Both adults and kids will adore its creamy, herbaceous taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

How to Make Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, coating evenly, and shake off any excess.

2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s hot and bubbling, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Build the Sauce:
In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this is where the flavor lives! Bring the broth to a simmer, then lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

4. Add the Basil and Cheese:
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and lemon juice. Continue to cook for another minute until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Combine and Serve:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes to marry the flavors. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil if desired.

Helpful Tips

• Adjusting the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a bit longer.
• Fresh Basil is Key: For the best flavor, use fresh basil rather than dried. It brings a vibrant, herby note that makes the dish shine.
• Double the Sauce: Love extra sauce? Double the sauce ingredients to ensure there’s plenty to go around for dipping or drizzling.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian-Friendly

Notes

• To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute.
• The lemon juice adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the cream—don’t skip it!

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 410 per serving
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fat: 28g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work well and add a slightly richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.

What can I serve with this dish?
Pasta, rice, or even roasted vegetables make excellent sides for this creamy chicken.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine when ready to reheat.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze the chicken and sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating Tips: Warm the chicken gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce silky.

Related Recipes

If you loved this dish, here are a few more creamy recipes to try:

• Easy Creamy Marry Me Chicken
• Creamy Herb Chicken & Basmati Rice: A Comforting Delight for Any Occasion

Conclusion

Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary evening into something special. It’s comforting yet elevated, simple yet impressive. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family meal or a special occasion, this dish will undoubtedly leave everyone asking for seconds.

So grab your skillet, some fresh basil, and let’s make dinner unforgettable!

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