There’s something truly magical about a creamy, herb-infused chicken dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is one of those recipes that manages to be indulgent yet simple, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, basil was always the star of our herb garden. Its fragrant, peppery aroma filled the air whenever we picked fresh leaves, and it became the secret ingredient to countless family dishes. Fast forward to today, this creamy basil sauce continues to be a showstopper at my dinner table. It’s rich, velvety, and infused with the fresh brightness of basil, all wrapped around perfectly cooked chicken.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting guests, or simply treating yourself to a delightful dinner, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Quick and Simple: You can have this restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Family-Friendly: Its rich, creamy flavors appeal to even the pickiest eaters.
Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Impressive: It’s fancy enough for dinner parties but easy enough for a cozy night at home.

Pin it now and inspire more food lovers on Pinterest!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Chicken breasts: 4 boneless, skinless (about 6 ounces each)
All-purpose flour: ½ cup
Salt: ½ teaspoon
Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Butter: 2 tablespoons
Chicken broth: ½ cup
Heavy cream: 1 cup
Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated
Basil leaves: ⅓ cup, fresh and chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced

How to Make Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This ensures a nice, golden sear. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper. Lightly coat each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Tip: Flatten the chicken slightly for even cooking by placing it between two sheets of parchment paper and gently pounding with a rolling pin.
Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and started to bubble, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Note: Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked yet—it will finish cooking in the sauce.
Create the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Make it Creamy
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese, whisking until it melts completely.
Add the Basil and Chicken
Stir in the chopped basil, letting its fresh aroma fill the kitchen. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring they are fully coated in the sauce. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
Serve and Enjoy
Plate the chicken and generously spoon the basil cream sauce over the top. Garnish with a few extra basil leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.

Helpful Tips:

Fresh Basil is Key: While dried basil works in a pinch, fresh basil elevates this dish with its vibrant flavor.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly, so grating your own is worth the effort.
Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing locks in juices and adds a lovely golden crust to the chicken.

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: Gluten-Free Option (substitute flour with gluten-free alternative)

Notes:

For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 460
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 34g
Fiber: 1g

Storage Instructions:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Freezing: While the chicken freezes well, the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

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Conclusion:

This Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is the kind of recipe that brings people together. Its rich flavors, cozy textures, and undeniable comfort make it a meal to remember. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this dish is as satisfying to make as it is to eat. So grab your skillet, some fresh basil, and get cooking—you’re about to create something truly delicious!

Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce: A Comforting Classic

Author: Charlotte B.

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