Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and elegantly simple, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe. Tender chicken cutlets get a golden crust before being bathed in a luscious cream sauce infused with fresh basil and Parmesan, creating a beautiful balance of savory and herbaceous notes. This dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, bringing warmth and comfort to your table with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe starts with a handful of straightforward ingredients that work harmoniously together. Each item plays a crucial role in building the texture, flavor, and eye-catching color that make this dish unforgettable.
- Chicken Cutlets: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced and pounded to perfection for even cooking and tenderness.
- Milk: ½ cup to gently moisten the cutlets before coating, helping the breadcrumbs stick and adding softness.
- Dried Italian Breadcrumbs: ¾ cup to create a crisp, flavorful crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Butter: 3 tablespoons for sautéing the chicken, imparting richness and a golden finish.
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced, adding a savory depth that complements the basil and cream.
- Chicken Broth: ½ cup brings a savory base to the sauce and helps deglaze the pan for extra flavor.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: 1 cup for the luscious, silky sauce that ties it all together.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup freshly grated to add a nutty, salty punch that elevates the cream.
- Fresh Basil: ¼ cup chopped, giving the sauce its signature fresh-herb aroma and bright green color.
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon freshly ground for subtle spice that balances richness.
How to Make Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep Chicken Cutlets
Start by slicing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts in half horizontally to create cutlets, which help the chicken cook evenly and stay tender. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound each cutlet gently until they’re an even thickness – this is key for a perfect golden crust and juicy interior.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
Dip each cutlet into milk to moisten them, then coat thoroughly in dried Italian breadcrumbs. This simple step sets you up for a wonderfully crispy outside that’s perfect against the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Pan-Fry the Chicken
Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Cook the breaded chicken cutlets for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden brown color. This frying step locks in moisture and builds flavor from the crispy crust.
Step 4: Bake for Perfection
Transfer the browned chicken cutlets to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Pop them into a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for 10 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baking finishes cooking them gently and keeps them juicy.
Step 5: Make the Basil Cream Sauce
While the chicken bakes, use the same skillet to cook minced garlic until fragrant, just about a minute. Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil, scraping up those flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan. Stir in the heavy whipping cream, then reduce the heat to let the sauce simmer gently. Add grated Parmesan, chopped fresh basil, and black pepper, simmering until the sauce thickens into a velvety, aromatic masterpiece.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked and resting, spoon the rich basil cream sauce generously over each cutlet. The combination of crispy chicken and creamy herb sauce is a total showstopper.
How to Serve Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan make fantastic garnishes. They not only add visual appeal but also refresh the palate, balancing the richness with bursts of herbaceous flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with light, simple sides to soak up that luscious sauce. Try serving it alongside buttery mashed potatoes, garlic sautéed green beans, or a crisp mixed green salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. The cream sauce turns these accompaniments into total comfort food classics.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, plate the chicken on a bright white dish and drizzle the basil cream sauce artistically with a spoon. Add colorful roasted cherry tomatoes or a swirl of basil pesto for extra flair. You can even serve the sauce on the side for guests who love to customize each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover chicken and basil cream sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Storing them together will help the flavors meld even more over time.
Freezing
This Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe freezes well, but for best texture, freeze the sauce separately in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the chicken gently in the oven or microwave and heat the basil cream sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. This keeps the sauce smooth and prevents separation, ensuring every bite tastes just as fabulous as fresh.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of cutlets?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can work wonderfully. Just make sure to adjust cooking time since thighs are thicker and might take a bit longer to cook through.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, but it won’t be quite as rich or thick. Adding a bit of flour or cornstarch as a thickener can help mimic the creaminess.
Can I prepare the basil cream sauce ahead?
Yes, you can make the sauce a day in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to loosen it up before serving.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also be firm to the touch and the juices clear.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh basil?
While fresh basil is ideal for that bright, lively flavor, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil instead. Add it during the sauce simmering process to allow it to bloom.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, the Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe is a surefire way to impress with minimal fuss. It combines golden, crispy chicken with a silky, fragrant sauce that feels both luxurious and comforting. Give it a try and prepare to have a new favorite on repeat in your dinner rotation!
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Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce recipe features tender, golden-brown chicken cutlets baked to perfection and smothered in a rich, flavorful basil cream sauce. The combination of garlic, fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, and creamy heavy cream creates a decadent sauce that elevates simple chicken breasts into an elegant and comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken Cutlets:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup milk
- ¾ cup dried Italian breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons butter
Basil Cream Sauce:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prep Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 4 thin cutlets. Pound each cutlet gently to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken cutlet in milk, then thoroughly coat with dried Italian breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
- Pan-Fry and Bake: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the breaded chicken cutlets until they are golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the cutlets to the prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are fully cooked.
- Make Basil Cream Sauce: Using the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil while scraping up any browned bits from the pan for added flavor. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat and add grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, and black pepper. Continue to simmer the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Serve: Spoon the rich basil cream sauce generously over the baked chicken cutlets and serve immediately for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh basil for a vibrant and fragrant sauce.
- Ensure chicken cutlets are pounded evenly to avoid uneven cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature for food safety.
- Leftover sauce can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
