A delightful aroma wafts through my kitchen as I sizzle chicken cutlets, each coated in a golden crunch that promises a mouthwatering experience. This Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce has become my go-to recipe, whether I’m celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to elevate a weeknight dinner. Not only is it a simple and elegant meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, but it also outfits your table with restaurant-worthy flair without the fuss. Paired with a creamy basil sauce that envelops each tender bite, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds—and is even accommodating for gluten-free diets when you reach for gluten-free breadcrumbs. Curious about how I create this quick weekday triumph? Let’s dive in!
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Simplicity at its Finest: Making this Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce takes only 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
Restaurant Quality at Home: The tender chicken and rich cream sauce will transport your taste buds to Italy, impressing even the pickiest eaters.
Adaptable Ingredients: Easily tweak the recipe to suit your dietary needs—swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with chicken alternatives for a personalized touch.
A Burst of Flavor: Fresh basil and garlic combine beautifully, creating a vibrant sauce that pairs wonderfully with any side dish or pasta you choose.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether it’s family dinner or hosting friends, this dish is bound to be a hit, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Elevate your mealtime experience and check out my other favorites, like Crockpot Coconut Chicken or Chopped Chicken Bacon, for more excitement!
Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Use boneless, skinless chicken for quicker cooking and a juicy result.
• Milk – Adds moisture to the chicken coating; almond or soy milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
• Dried Italian Breadcrumbs – Provide a crispy texture; gluten-free breadcrumbs make this a quick gluten-free solution.
• Butter – Creates a golden crust when frying; substitute with olive oil for a healthier twist.
For the Sauce
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic gives the sauce depth; jarred garlic can work in a pinch.
• Chicken Broth – Choose homemade or low-sodium for a rich base to your sauce.
• Heavy Whipping Cream – Ensures a velvety texture; swap with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds flavor and creaminess to the sauce; omit for a lighter approach.
• Fresh Basil – Provides vibrant flavor; dried basil can substitute, but use less than the fresh amount.
• Black Pepper – Freshly cracked enhances the overall taste; use to season to your liking.
With these easy-to-find ingredients, you’re just moments away from serving up a heavenly Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce that will become a cherished favorite at your table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low temperature will ensure that the chicken remains juicy while it bakes. As the oven warms up, you can prepare your chicken cutlets, setting the stage for the delicious Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce that will follow.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
While the oven is heating, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and allow for easy cleanup afterward. Keeping everything organized and ready will help streamline your cooking process as you move on to the next steps.
Step 3: Slice and Pound the Chicken
Next, slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. To ensure even cooking, place a piece of plastic wrap over each cutlet and gently pound them to a uniform thickness of about 1/2-inch. This technique will help the chicken cook quickly and evenly, resulting in the perfect base for your Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
In a shallow bowl, dip each chicken cutlet into milk, allowing for a good coating to help the breadcrumbs adhere. After dipping, roll the cutlet in dried Italian breadcrumbs until fully coated. The breadcrumbs will give your chicken a delightful crunch and flavor, making this step essential for a tasty dish.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter to melt. Once the butter is sizzling, carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets into the skillet. Fry each cutlet for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes. You want a nice crispy crust before transferring the chicken to the prepared baking dish.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
After frying, place the golden-brown chicken cutlets in the greased baking dish. Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This final cooking step ensures a juicy and tender chicken for your finished dish.
Step 7: Make the Sauce
With the chicken baking, return to your skillet over medium heat, adding minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, and then pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This adds depth of flavor to your sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil to incorporate all the flavors.
Step 8: Create the Creamy Sauce
Next, reduce the heat and stir in heavy whipping cream, allowing the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Add grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and black pepper, mixing to combine. This rich sauce will envelop your Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce with creamy goodness.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, remove the baked chicken from the oven and plate each cutlet. Generously drizzle the creamy basil sauce over the chicken, allowing it to pool beautifully around each piece. With the luscious sauce complementing the crispy chicken, this dish is ready to impress your family and friends!
Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Variations
Feel free to explore new flavors and textures by customizing this delightful recipe to suit your taste!
-
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a luscious, dairy-free sauce that still delights the senses.
-
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of traditional breadcrumbs, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
-
Veggie Boost: Add fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for an extra layer of nutrition and a pop of color.
-
Alternative Proteins: Switch out the chicken for thinly sliced pork or turkey cutlets to create a different yet equally scrumptious version.
-
Flavor Infusion: Incorporate a splash of white wine into the sauce for a deeper, more complex flavor that transports you to a quaint Italian bistro.
-
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme in addition to or instead of basil, adding a new dimension to your creamy sauce.
-
Heat Factor: For a spicy twist, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or sauté fresh jalapeños with the garlic to warm things up.
-
Pasta Choice: Serve over various pasta types, such as fettuccine or penne, giving this dish a comforting, hearty touch that’s simply irresistible.
By allowing yourself to get creative with these variations, your Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce will never get old! For further inspiration, don’t miss my recipe for Honey Dijon Chicken or try the delectable Crockpot Coconut Chicken for a twist on weeknight dinners!
What to Serve with Easy Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
As you savor the rich flavors of this Italian-inspired dish, let me help you craft a well-rounded meal that dazzles not just the taste buds, but the entire dining experience.
-
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they lovingly soak up the delicious sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
-
Steamed Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus adds a fresh, vibrant crunch that complements the richness of the sauce beautifully.
-
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Their natural sweetness and juicy burst perfectly contrast the savory chicken, adding a lovely pop of color and flavor.
-
Herb Salad: A refreshing mix of arugula, fresh basil, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with olive oil cuts through the creaminess, balancing every bite.
-
Lemon Risotto: This creamy side offers a subtle zing that uplifts the dish, while its texture adds a comforting element to your meal.
-
Crusty Italian Bread: Perfect for mopping up that luscious basil cream sauce, this bread adds a satisfying crunch and is a must-have for your table.
-
Pino Grigio: A chilled glass of this crisp wine enhances the creamy sauce and elevates the dining experience with a refreshing contrast.
Creating a full meal with these delightful options ensures that your Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce shines as the centerpiece while everything else complements its beauty. Enjoy every moment!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce cutlets are perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken in milk and even coat them in breadcrumbs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply refrigerate the coated cutlets in an airtight container. Additionally, you can prepare the basil cream sauce up to 3 days ahead; just store it in the fridge and reheat gently to maintain its velvety texture. When you’re ready to serve, fry the chicken until golden and bake as directed, then drizzle that creamy sauce over the top for a quick, restaurant-quality meal that saves you time on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors vibrant while ensuring food safety.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy this dish later, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, pop the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. A little splash of cream can help restore the sauce’s original consistency.
Attention to Sauce: When storing, keep the chicken and sauce together to maintain flavor. This combination makes for a delicious, quick meal that tastes just as good as the first serving!
Expert Tips for Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce
-
Pound Evenly: Ensure the chicken cutlets are pounded to a uniform thickness to promote consistent cooking throughout, avoiding dry or undercooked spots.
-
Watch the Skillet: Keep an eye on your skillet while frying to prevent burning the breadcrumbs. Adjust heat as necessary for perfect golden-brown cutlets.
-
Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the thickness of the sauce by varying the amount of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese based on your preference.
-
Fresh Is Best: For maximum flavor, use fresh basil and garlic instead of dried or jarred options—these give the sauce an aromatic edge that’s simply irresistible.
-
Experiment with Additions: Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition, making your Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce even more delightful.
Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are plump and free of dark spots or blemishes. Fresh chicken should feel firm to the touch and have a mild scent. If you’re in a pinch, frozen chicken can work too; just be sure to thaw it completely before starting your recipe.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
After you enjoy your delightful meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish is cooled down before sealing to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze the Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce?
Very much! To freeze, divide the chicken and sauce into individual portions, then place them in airtight containers or freezer bags. Be sure to label them and store for a maximum of 2 months. When ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight to keep the flavors intact.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out thicker than desired, don’t worry! Simply add a tablespoon of chicken broth or heavy cream at a time, stirring well until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency. This step creates a creamy, luscious texture that’s just right.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! This Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce can easily accommodate gluten-free diets by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Additionally, make sure to verify that your chicken broth and any other packaged ingredients are gluten-free. For those with dairy allergies, substituting heavy whipping cream with coconut cream works beautifully. Always consult any dietary preferences or restrictions before sharing with others.
How long can the chicken stay in the oven for optimal results?
To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, it should be baked at 275°F (135°C) for approximately 10 minutes after frying, checking that its internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). This method allows the chicken to remain juicy while allowing the flavors of the sauce to meld beautifully.
Irresistible Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Ready in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Pound to a uniform thickness of about 1/2-inch.
- Dip each chicken cutlet into milk, then roll in dried Italian breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt butter. Fry the cutlets for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the fried chicken cutlets to the prepared baking dish and bake for approximately 10 minutes until cooked through.
- In the skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and stir in heavy whipping cream, simmer for about 5 minutes. Mix in Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and black pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the oven, plate each cutlet, and drizzle with creamy basil sauce.
Leave a Reply