Basil Chicken with Cream Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors, creamy textures, and a touch of elegance, this Basil Chicken with Cream Sauce Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust, smothered in a luxuriously rich sauce made with cream, fresh basil, tangy pimentos, and savory Parmesan – every bite is a delightful celebration of taste and comfort. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend treat, this recipe brings simple ingredients together in a way that feels special and comforting all at once.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are easy to find yet each one plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this Basil Chicken with Cream Sauce Recipe so irresistible. From the tangy buttermilk that tenderizes the chicken to the fresh basil that brightens the sauce, each element contributes something unique.

• ¼ cup buttermilk: Helps tenderize the chicken and adds a subtle tang.
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs: Creates a crispy, golden crust on the chicken.
• 4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless): The star protein, juicy and tender when cooked right.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps achieve a beautiful sear.
• 2 tablespoons canola oil: Keeps the chicken crisp without burning.
• ¼ cup chicken broth: Provides depth when deglazing the pan.
• 2 tablespoons dry sherry (optional): Adds complex, slightly sweet notes to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: The base for the luxuriously smooth sauce.
• 1 can pimentos (4 ounces, drained): Brings a sweet, mild pepper flavor and beautiful color.
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces, drained): Adds acidity and texture to balance the creaminess.
• ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped): Bursts of herbaceous freshness brighten the sauce.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a sharp, nutty richness that melts perfectly into the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons garlic & herb cheese (such as Boursin): Adds depth and a subtle garlic kick.
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A simple seasoning that ties everything together.

How to Make Basil Chicken with Cream Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and covering them with buttermilk. This step is key because the buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and ensures it stays juicy during cooking. Letting the chicken soak for even a few minutes makes all the difference.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

Pour breadcrumbs into a separate shallow dish. This will be your crispy coating that transforms the chicken into a golden, crunchy delight once cooked. Having it ready makes the next step quick and easy.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet with Butter and Oil

Preheat your skillet over medium heat, then add 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of canola oil. This combination browns beautifully and helps cook the chicken evenly without sticking.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken in Breadcrumbs and Sear

Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them adhere. Then, carefully place them in the hot skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the bottom to turn crisp and golden brown—it’s this crust that adds amazing texture.

Step 5: Flip and Finish Cooking the Chicken

Add the remaining butter and oil to the pan, then flip the chicken breasts over. Cook another 5 to 7 minutes or until the chicken is completely cooked through. You’ll know it’s perfect when the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Remove Chicken and Deglaze the Pan

Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside. Now, pour the chicken broth and optional sherry into the skillet. Bring to a boil while scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to lift all those flavorful browned bits—this is where a lot of magic happens!

Step 7: Add Cream, Pimentos, and Tomatoes

Pour in the heavy cream, drained pimentos, and drained diced tomatoes. Bring everything to a boil, stirring constantly for about a minute. This mixture starts to meld the flavors and create that decadent sauce you’re aiming for.

Step 8: Stir in Cheese, Basil, and Pepper

Turn the heat to low and add Parmesan cheese, garlic & herb cheese, chopped fresh basil, and freshly ground black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently until it reduces by half, concentrating all the wonderful flavors and thickening to a luscious consistency.

Step 9: Reintroduce the Chicken and Warm Through

Pop the chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them in the cream sauce. Heat everything through so the chicken absorbs some sauce flavor and stays extra moist. Now it’s ready to plate and enjoy.

How to Serve Basil Chicken with Cream Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

The fresh basil already in the sauce can be complemented with a few whole basil leaves sprinkled on top for an inviting burst of green and an extra pop of herbaceous aroma. A light dusting of extra Parmesan adds a bit more sharpness and visual appeal. This beautiful finishing touch makes the dish look as delightful as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This Basil Chicken with Cream Sauce Recipe pairs perfectly with simple sides that soak up the creamy sauce. Think fluffy white rice, garlic butter pasta, or even a creamy risotto. For some crunch and color, serve alongside steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad. These sides help balance the richness of the chicken dish while keeping the meal satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stylish presentation, serve the chicken breasts whole on a large platter, spoon the sauce generously over the top, and scatter extra chopped basil and Parmesan cheese around. Or slice the chicken and fan the pieces over a bed of pasta, drizzling with the sauce for a restaurant-quality look. Using colorful serving dishes also makes this dish a feast for the eyes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers from this Basil Chicken with Cream Sauce Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken covered in the sauce helps maintain moisture and flavor, making for an easy next-day meal.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen but for best results, separate the chicken and the sauce before freezing. Freeze the sauce in a sealed container and the chicken wrapped tightly. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat together in a skillet over low heat to preserve the texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Stir occasionally until warmed through. Avoid using high heat or the microwave as it can curdle the sauce. A splash of chicken broth or cream during reheating can bring back the sauce’s silky consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully with this recipe and tend to be even juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through without drying out.

What if I don’t have dry sherry?

No worries! The dry sherry is optional and adds a subtle depth, but you can easily skip it or substitute with a splash of white wine or extra chicken broth. The sauce will still be delicious and creamy.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

It would take some tweaks since cream, butter, and cheese are essential here. However, you could try swapping heavy cream with coconut cream and using dairy-free butter and cheese alternatives. Keep in mind, the flavor will change, but it can still be tasty.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The best way is using a meat thermometer; chicken is fully cooked at 165°F (75°C). Without a thermometer, the juices should run clear when pierced, and the meat should no longer be pink inside.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead and reheat it for a party?

Yes! This dish reheats beautifully and can be made a day ahead. Just heat gently before serving to keep the cream sauce smooth and rich. It’s a great option for impressing guests without last-minute stress.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Basil Chicken with Cream Sauce Recipe because it truly is one of those comforting yet fancy-feeling meals that everyone loves. Its combination of crispy chicken and silky, flavorful sauce is utterly addictive. Give it a go, and soon it might become your go-to recipe whenever you want to wow your family or treat yourself. Happy cooking!

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