Creamy Basil Chicken With Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Name: Creamy Basil Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1.5 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs; – 1 tsp onion powder; – 1 tsp garlic powder; – 1/4 tsp red pepper; – 1 tsp salt; – 1 tsp pepper; – 3 tbsp olive oil; – 1/4 cup red onions chopped; – 2 tsp minced garlic; – 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes drained (preferably in oil); – 4 tbsp butter; – 1/4 cup chicken broth; – 1 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream; – 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese shredded; – 3/4 tsp reserved seasoning (onion powder, garlic powder, red pepper); – 10 basil leaves chiffonade; – Pinch garlic powder; – Pinch onion powder; – Couple pinches crushed red pepper

By:

Magnolia Belle

Published:

August 15, 2025

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Basil Chicken

This creamy basil chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings together simple ingredients for a meal everyone will enjoy. Imagine tender chicken smothered in a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce with fresh basil bursts it’s easy to prepare and tastes amazing. You’ll appreciate how it fits into your busy schedule without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

First, the ease of preparation makes this dish ideal for home cooks and busy parents alike. With just a few steps and basic pantry staples, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, perfect for those evenings when time is tight. Plus, it’s packed with health benefits from lean protein in the chicken, antioxidants from basil, and flavorful additions like garlic and sun-dried tomatoes that support a balanced diet.

The recipe’s versatility lets you adapt it to various lifestyles, whether you’re a student looking for quick meals or someone watching their intake. You can swap ingredients for dietary preferences, and the distinctive flavor from the creamy sauce will keep food enthusiasts coming back for more. According to the health benefits of chicken, it’s a great source of protein that helps with muscle maintenance and overall wellness.

Nutritional Highlights and Quick Prep

Each serving provides essential nutrients, including 568 kcal, 39 g of protein, and vitamins like A and C, making it suitable for diet-conscious individuals. Preparation time is straightforward: prep in 10 minutes and cook in 20 minutes for a total of 30 minutes. This means working professionals and newcomers to cooking can whip it up without hassle.

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Essential Ingredients for Creamy Basil Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Creamy Basil Chicken shine. Below is a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need, organized for clarity. This structured list includes precise measurements to ensure your recipe turns out perfectly every time.

1.5 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp red pepper
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
3 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup red onions chopped
2 tsp minced garlic
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes drained (preferably in oil)
4 tbsp butter
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese shredded
3/4 tsp reserved seasoning (onion powder, garlic powder, red pepper)
10 basil leaves chiffonade
Pinch garlic powder
Pinch onion powder
Couple pinches crushed red pepper

These ingredients create a balanced blend of flavors, with the chicken providing the base and the basil cream sauce adding creamy richness. For special dietary options, you can make adjustments like using plant-based proteins or dairy-free alternatives to suit various needs.

How to Prepare the Perfect Creamy Basil Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting started with this Creamy Basil Chicken recipe is straightforward and fun. Begin by preparing your ingredients to make the process smooth and enjoyable. This step-by-step guide walks you through each stage, using the exact directions for a foolproof meal.

Mix the seasoning onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper in a bowl, then reserve 3/4 tsp. Season both sides of the 1.5 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs with the remaining seasoning, along with 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp pepper.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat, then sauté 1/4 cup chopped red onions until soft, about 3 5 minutes. Add 2 tsp minced garlic and 1/2 cup drained sun-dried tomatoes, cooking until fragrant, then set aside.
In the same skillet, heat the remaining 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 5 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, then remove and set aside.
Add 4 tbsp butter to the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in 1/4 cup chicken broth and 1 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream, bringing it to a boil before reducing to low heat.
Stir in 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese and simmer until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Add the reserved 3/4 tsp seasoning, a pinch of garlic powder, a pinch of onion powder, a couple pinches of crushed red pepper, and 10 basil leaves chiffonade. Simmer until the basil wilts.
Return the chicken to the skillet and cook until warmed through, then spoon the sauce over the chicken and serve.

This method ensures juicy chicken and a flavorful sauce that ties everything together. Remember to check the chicken’s temperature for safety, and feel free to adapt based on dietary needs for a personalized touch.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Creamy Basil Chicken

Making Creamy Basil Chicken work for your lifestyle is simple with a few swaps. You can easily modify the protein or sauce to fit different preferences. For instance, use firm tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a plant-based version.

Other changes include swapping fresh basil with cilantro for a twist, or opting for almond milk creamers to keep it dairy-free. Adding vegetables like zucchini can boost nutrition and variety, ensuring the dish stays delicious and accessible.

Mastering Creamy Basil Chicken: Advanced Tips and Variations

Taking your Creamy Basil Chicken to the next level involves some pro techniques. For example, sear the chicken over high heat to lock in juices, then simmer it in the sauce for tender results. You can enhance the flavor by adding sun-dried tomatoes or a splash of white wine.

Presentation matters too try serving it over pasta or rice with fresh basil on top. If you’re prepping ahead, cook the chicken and sauce separately, then combine later. These tips, along with advice like using a cast iron skillet for even searing, explore more recipes on our site for inspiration, will make the dish even better.

Remember, butter and heavy cream create that creamy texture, but you can adjust seasonings lightly at first. This way, you accommodate the natural salts from cheese and tomatoes while keeping things flexible.

How to Store Creamy Basil Chicken: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your Creamy Basil Chicken fresh and tasty. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to preserve its flavor. For longer keeps, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.

When reheating, do it gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid separating the sauce. Meal prep by dividing into servings ahead of time, which helps busy schedules and maintains quality.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Basil Chicken

How do I make creamy basil chicken from scratch?

To make creamy basil chicken, start by seasoning chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them in a skillet with olive oil until golden on both sides. Remove the chicken and, in the same pan, sauté garlic and onions until fragrant. Add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring to create a smooth sauce. Mix in fresh basil leaves and return the chicken to the pan, simmering until cooked through and the sauce thickens. Serve immediately with pasta or rice for a rich, flavorful meal.

What type of basil works best for creamy basil chicken?

Fresh sweet basil is the best choice for creamy basil chicken because it has a sweet, peppery flavor that complements the cream sauce without overpowering it. Avoid dried basil, as it lacks the vibrant aroma and flavor. For an even more intense basil taste, add the fresh leaves toward the end of cooking to preserve their brightness.

Can I make creamy basil chicken dairy-free?

Yes, you can make creamy basil chicken dairy-free by substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream alternative. Use dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, like broth or seasoning, avoid hidden dairy to keep the dish suitable for lactose-intolerant or vegan diets.

How long does it take to cook creamy basil chicken?

Preparing creamy basil chicken usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes. Searing the chicken breasts takes roughly 6-8 minutes, with an additional 10-15 minutes to make the sauce and finish cooking the chicken through simmering. This makes it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

What sides pair well with creamy basil chicken?

Creamy basil chicken pairs well with a variety of sides such as garlic mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, and pasta like fettuccine or penne to soak up the sauce. A light green salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish, providing a fresh contrast that complements the creamy texture.