Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet Recipe

Indulge in the delightful flavors of a comforting yet vibrant dish with this Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet recipe. Picture this: tender chicken breasts enveloped in a luxurious cream sauce infused with the essence of fresh basil and zesty lemon juice. A meal that’s both heartwarming and invigorating, perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a laid-back family dinner or a gathering with friends.

As I whisk you through the aromatic journey of this Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet, allow me to share the magic of basil, a herb that holds a special place in my culinary adventures. The fragrant basil and garlic dance in harmony, creating an irresistible allure that beckons loved ones to gather around the kitchen, eager to savor every spoonful. This recipe is not just about cooking; it’s about creating lasting memories, like the sweet recollections of my daughter helping tear basil leaves, filling the air with nostalgia and comfort.

So, as you embark on preparing this creamy masterpiece, remember to savor the process, make it your own, and witness how it becomes a fast favorite on your dinner table. And if you happen to have any leftovers (which might be a rare occurrence!), store them wisely and reheat gently to maintain that velvety texture that makes this Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet truly irresistible.

Quick Benefits

• Rich and Flavorful Sauce: The creamy basil sauce is infused with fresh basil and garlic, creating a luscious and lively flavor profile that elevates the dish.
• Versatile and Adaptable: You can easily customize this recipe by substituting ingredients like parsley or spinach, adjusting the creaminess with different types of cream, or serving it with various bases like pasta, rice, or quinoa.
• Easy to Store and Reheat: Leftovers can be stored for up to three days and reheated gently with a splash of milk or cream to maintain the sauce’s creaminess, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet Recipe Recipe

• Comforting and Fresh: This creamy basil chicken skillet offers a comforting meal with a fresh twist, making it perfect for any night of the week.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal cooking time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the hassle.
• Luscious Cream Sauce: The rich basil-infused cream sauce is both indulgent and lively, providing a burst of flavor that will have you craving seconds.
• Family Favorite: Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to be a hit and will have everyone asking for the recipe.
• Memorable Food Experience: The aroma of basil and garlic will fill your kitchen, creating lasting memories of cooking together with loved ones.
• Versatile: You can customize this recipe with different herbs or dairy alternatives to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated easily for a quick and delicious meal.
• Pairs Well: This dish is delicious served over pasta, rice, or quinoa, making it a versatile option for pairing with your favorite sides like salad or steamed vegetables.
• Mediterranean Flavors: Inspired by classic Italian comfort food, this dish combines basil, garlic, and cream to create a dish that embodies the freshness of Mediterranean cuisine.

Ingredients for Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet Recipe

Main

• 2 tablespoons (30 millilitres) olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (25 grams) fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 680 grams)
• 1 tablespoon (15 millilitres) fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup (240 millilitres) heavy cream
• Black pepper, to taste
• 50 grams Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• Salt, to taste

Pro Tips for Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet Recipe

To make the Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet, start by ensuring the chicken breasts are evenly sized for consistent cooking. Pound them to an even thickness if needed. Searing the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides before adding the cream sauce will enhance flavor and texture. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet to ensure proper browning.

For a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan after sautéing the garlic. This step helps incorporate any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan into the sauce. Adjust the seasoning at the end, as Parmesan cheese can add saltiness to the dish. Taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed before serving.

When storing leftovers of the Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the sauce before sealing with an airtight lid. This prevents a skin from forming on the sauce. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the cream from separating. Add a touch of milk or cream to revive the creamy texture if necessary. Enjoy the dish with your favorite sides, such as pasta, rice, or a fresh salad, for a complete meal.

How to Make Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Breasts

Dry chicken breasts with paper towel and season both sides with salt and black pepper. Set aside.

Step 2: Sear Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook chicken breasts for 6 to 7 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 74°C. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Lower the heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring often to avoid burning.

Step 4: Prepare Creamy Basil Sauce

Add heavy cream, chopped basil, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Mix in lemon juice and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the chicken breasts back to the skillet and spoon sauce over them. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to heat through and blend flavors.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the chicken, spoon creamy basil sauce over each portion generously, garnish with basil leaves and Parmesan, if desired, and serve immediately.

Storage Tips

To store the finished creamy basil chicken skillet, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. The dish can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it is recommended to use gentle heat on the stovetop and add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and maintain its creaminess. Avoid over-microwaving to prevent the chicken from drying out during reheating.

For variations on the dish, if fresh basil is not available, you can substitute with flat-leaf parsley or baby spinach for a different but tasty twist. To make a lighter sauce, half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream, though the texture may be slightly thinner. For non-dairy versions, rich coconut cream and your favorite plant-based Parmesan can be used as substitutes. This creamy basil chicken dish pairs well with warm cooked pasta, rice, or quinoa to soak up the sauce, and it can be served with a side of fresh salad or lightly steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can substitute it with flat-leaf parsley or baby spinach for a different yet tasty flavor profile. These alternatives will bring their own unique taste to the dish while maintaining the herbaceous essence. Additionally, for a lighter version of the creamy sauce, you can swap the heavy cream with half-and-half. While the texture may be slightly thinner, it will still provide a delicious creaminess to the dish. Alternatively, if you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use rich coconut cream and your favorite plant-based Parmesan to create a creamy and flavorful sauce.

When storing any leftovers of this creamy basil chicken skillet, ensure they are cooled completely before transferring them to an airtight container. The dish can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use gentle heat on the stovetop and add a splash of milk or cream to prevent the sauce from drying out. Avoid over-microwaving to maintain the chicken’s moisture. For serving suggestions, this dish pairs well with warm cooked pasta, rice, or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it with a side of crisp green salad or lightly steamed broccoli for a fresh accompaniment. To enhance the herbaceous flavors, tear extra basil leaves over the top just before serving to add a final touch of freshness to your dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, consider pairing the Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet with a side of garlic parmesan mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes complements the rich basil-infused cream sauce of the chicken perfectly, creating a comforting and indulgent meal. The garlic and parmesan add extra layers of flavor that elevate the dish, making it a satisfying and delicious combination that will have your guests coming back for more.

Another fun idea is to serve the Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet over a bed of lemon herb orzo pasta. The light and fluffy orzo, tossed with lemon juice, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil, provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken dish. The combination of flavors and textures creates a well-balanced meal that is both comforting and vibrant, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

FAQs for Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet Recipe

Can I use a different type of basil if I can’t find sweet basil?

Yes, other varieties like Genovese basil can be used as a substitute for sweet basil in this recipe.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to lighten the sauce?

Yes, half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative to heavy cream, but the sauce may be slightly less rich in flavor and texture.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and appears white throughout.

What are some good options for serving this creamy basil chicken?

Pasta, rice, crusty bread, or simple roasted vegetables all work well to soak up the creamy sauce and complement the flavors of the dish.

Conclusion

As you savor every creamy, basil-infused bite of this delightful Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet, let the memories made in your kitchen linger just like the aroma of fresh basil and garlic. The joy of creating delicious meals for loved ones is truly special, and this dish perfectly captures that sentiment. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and comfort to the table.

Remember, the beauty of cooking lies in making a recipe your own. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or alternative ingredients to suit your preferences. The versatility of this Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet allows for endless possibilities, ensuring that each meal is a unique and enjoyable experience. So, keep the love for good food alive and continue to create memorable moments around delicious dishes like this one. Enjoy every moment in the kitchen, and let the delicious flavors of this Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet bring smiles to the faces of all who gather around your table. Happy cooking!