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
Scale
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
