This easy chicken in creamy basil sauce is a hit at dinner! Juicy chicken is cooked to perfection and smothered in a smooth, rich basil sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
It’s quick to whip up, which is perfect for busy days. I love pairing it with rice or pasta for a full meal. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish since they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you want to mix it up, you can use chicken thighs, which are a bit more flavorful, or even turkey cutlets!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a nice crunchy texture. If you don’t have them, regular breadcrumbs will work too, but keep in mind the texture might not be as crunchy. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan brings a rich, salty flavor. You can substitute it with Pecorino Romano if you want something a bit stronger. Nutritional yeast is a good vegan substitute if you’re looking for a dairy-free option!
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds so much flavor! If fresh isn’t available, use dried basil, but reduce the amount since dried is more potent. You can also try using other herbs like parsley or even spinach for a twist.
How Do I Achieve the Perfectly Crispy Chicken?
Breading chicken can seem tricky, but it’s all about the right technique! Here’s how to ensure your chicken comes out crispy and golden:
- Flatten the Chicken: Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness. This helps it cook evenly and makes it tender.
- Egg Wash: Make sure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the egg before breading. The egg helps the breadcrumbs stick perfectly.
- Don’t Crowded the Pan: Cook in batches if needed. Overcrowding can make the chicken steam instead of fry, which affects crispiness.
- Watch the Heat: Medium-high heat is key for getting that golden crust. Too low will make it soggy, and too high can burn the breadcrumbs before the chicken is cooked!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have wonderfully crispy chicken every time! Enjoy the cooking process! 🍽️
Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried basil)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: steamed broccoli or your favorite side dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by flattening the chicken breasts a bit to get an even thickness. Use a meat mallet or a rolling pin to gently pound them. This helps the chicken cook evenly and remain juicy.
2. Make the Breading:
In a shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This will create a flavorful coating for your chicken!
3. Beat the Eggs:
In another bowl, crack the 2 eggs and beat them until the yolks and whites are blended. This egg wash will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess egg drip off. Then, coat it well with the breadcrumb mixture. Set the breaded chicken aside on a plate.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm.
6. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should just be lightly golden!
7. Add the Cream:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. You’ll want to stir occasionally to combine everything.
8. Stir in Basil and Cheese:
Add the chopped fresh basil and the additional 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring until it thickens slightly. This is where all the magic happens—watch it transform into a creamy delight!
9. Season to Taste:
Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. It should be savory and flavorful!
10. Serve:
Once the sauce is ready, spoon it generously over the cooked chicken breasts. It’s okay to be a little generous with that creamy basil goodness!
11. Enjoy:
Serve your chicken hot, with steamed broccoli or your favorite side dish. Enjoy every bite of this creamy, flavorful chicken dish!
Happy cooking and enjoy your flavorful, creamy basil chicken! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick method by submerging it in cold water (still in its packaging) until it’s soft. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No problem! You can use dried basil instead—just remember it’s more concentrated, so use about 2 tablespoons of dried basil for this recipe. Alternatively, fresh parsley or spinach can also add a nice flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring the sauce to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Cook the chicken and make the sauce, then store them separately in the fridge. Reheat before serving, and you’ll still have a flavorful and satisfying meal!
