Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a lovely, comforting dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts with a silky, herb-filled sauce. The sauce is brightened up by fresh basil, which gives it a wonderful, fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture. It’s simple but feels special enough for any night of the week.
I like making this dish because it’s so easy to whip up, but it still feels like a treat. The basil really shines through and gives the sauce a little zing that makes every bite interesting. Sometimes I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a tiny touch of heat that wakes up the creaminess.
This chicken in basil cream sauce is perfect served over pasta or with a side of steamed veggies. I often throw it on a bed of spaghetti or alongside some garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the sauce. It’s one of those meals that always gets a thumbs up from family and friends, and I love how the fresh basil makes it feel bright and homemade.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless work best for even cooking and a tender bite. If you prefer, chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil is key here. It gives the sauce a lively, fresh taste you just can’t get with dried herbs. If fresh isn’t around, a teaspoon of dried basil can work in a pinch.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce silky and rich. For a lighter option, half-and-half works, but the sauce may be thinner. Coconut cream is great for a dairy-free twist.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth to the sauce. You can swap in Pecorino Romano or Asiago if you like a sharper bite.
Chicken broth: Adds savory flavor to the sauce and helps thin it out. Use low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness better.
How Do I Make the Cream Sauce Thick and Flavorful Without It Splitting?
Getting a smooth, creamy sauce can be tricky, but here’s how I do it:
- After searing the chicken, use the same pan for the sauce to capture all those yummy browned bits.
- Cook garlic gently to avoid burning—it turns bitter quickly.
- Add broth first and scrape the pan to release flavors, then stir in cream slowly.
- Keep heat on medium to low to prevent the cream from curdling.
- Simmer gently, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Adding cheese off heat or at low heat helps it melt smoothly without clumping.
If your sauce looks too thin, keep simmering a bit longer or add a small teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I like using this because it heats evenly and lets you sear the chicken perfectly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for scraping up browned bits and stirring the sauce without scratching the pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredients just right.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping the garlic and basil easily.
- Kitchen tongs or a spatula – to help flip and serve the chicken smoothly.
- Serving plate or pasta bowl – perfect for presenting the dish beautifully.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch chicken for shrimp or turkey for a different twist on the protein.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to add more flavor and texture.
- Use a splash of white wine instead of broth for a slightly tangy, richer sauce.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat if you like spicy food.
How to Make Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Cooked pasta or noodles, for serving
- Fresh basil sprig, for garnish
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of around 30 minutes. It’s a quick and flavorful meal perfect for weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Chicken
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook them until they’re golden brown on both sides and cooked through—around 5 to 7 minutes per side depending on thickness. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Make the Basil Cream Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it smells amazing but isn’t browned. Pour in the chicken broth and gently scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen all those tasty browned bits.
Next, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little kick. Let the sauce simmer gently, stirring often, for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens just a bit. Then, stir in the chopped fresh basil, mixing well to combine all the flavors.
3. Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy basil sauce over them. Let everything warm together for 1 to 2 minutes so the flavors meld just right.
Serve the chicken over your favorite cooked pasta or noodles, making sure to drizzle plenty of that delicious sauce on top. Garnish with a fresh basil sprig and extra Parmesan if you like. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any extra moisture for better browning.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, but the texture will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well and adds a subtle sweetness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to warm the sauce evenly.
What Should I Serve This With?
This dish is fantastic over pasta or noodles to soak up the creamy basil sauce. It also pairs nicely with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a lighter side.
