This Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce is a tasty dish that’s perfect for any night! Juicy chicken is coated in a creamy, flavorful basil sauce that makes every bite delightful.
I love how simple it is to whip up this meal. Just cook the chicken, add the sauce, and dinner is ready! Plus, it pairs perfectly with rice or pasta—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep it easy and quick. You can substitute with thighs if you like dark meat, or even use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. Coconut cream works, but it will change the flavor a bit.
Basil: Fresh basil adds great flavor, but if it’s not available, you can use dried basil. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. If you can’t find them, plain breadcrumbs work too. You can also use crushed crackers for a fun crunch!
How Do You Make the Crispiest Chicken?
Getting that crispy coating on your chicken is key! Here are some steps to ensure perfect breading:
- Dry the chicken well before seasoning. Moisture can prevent the crust from getting crispy.
- Make a three-step dredging station: flour for drying, egg for binding, and breadcrumbs for crunch.
- Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to help them stick better.
- Use hot oil to fry. This ensures a fast crisp while keeping the chicken moist inside.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
With these tips, you’ll achieve perfectly crispy chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
For the Creamy Basil Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
Optional:
- Steamed broccoli or your choice of vegetable, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation and about 15-20 minutes for cooking, making it a quick 35-40 minute meal from start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the seasoning stick to the meat. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Set Up Your Dredging Station:
In three shallow bowls, set up your dredging station. Put flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in the second, and a mix of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese in the third. This will make coating the chicken easy and organized!
3. Bread the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and first coat it in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully covered. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb and cheese mixture, making sure to adhere the coating well.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate.
5. Make the Creamy Basil Sauce:
In the same skillet (don’t clean it!), reduce the heat to medium and add the butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
6. Add Fresh Basil:
Stir in the finely chopped fresh basil and let the sauce cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Remember to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed!
7. Serve:
Spoon the delicious creamy basil sauce generously over the cooked chicken breasts. Serve immediately with steamed broccoli or your favorite vegetables on the side.
Enjoy your flavorful crispy chicken topped with a luscious creamy basil sauce! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breasts, so you’re in for a treat! Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a few more minutes to cook through.
Can I Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Make the creamy basil sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, before serving over freshly cooked chicken.
How Can I Store Leftover Chicken and Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stove. If the sauce thickens, whisk in a splash of cream or broth to loosen it up.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy basil chicken pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it over a fresh salad for a lighter option. It’s versatile, so feel free to get creative with your sides!
