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–+ servings
Benjamin

Creamy Basil Chicken is a delightful dinner option

Rich, creamy, and bursting with fresh basil flavor! This Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce is a restaurant-quality dish made right at home. Juicy chicken breasts are pan-seared and smothered in a luscious garlic basil cream sauce that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Additional chopped basil and Parmesan for garnish optional

Method
 

  1. Prepare Chicken:Pound chicken breasts to even thickness if needed. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast lightly in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
  2. Cook Chicken:In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil together. Add chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. Make Sauce:In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
  4. Add Cream & Cheese:Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook, stirring frequently, until sauce thickens slightly—about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add Basil:Stir in chopped fresh basil and red pepper flakes (if using).
  6. Combine:Return chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  7. Serve:Garnish with extra fresh basil and Parmesan, and serve hot with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.

Notes

  • Protein Options: You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs or even pork chops.
  • Thicker Sauce: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer an extra minute or two before adding the chicken back in.
  • Make it Lighter: Swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or a light cream alternative.
  • Perfect Pairings: Serve with garlic bread, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

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