Creamy Parmesan Basil Chicken Recipe

Looking for a dish that’s both comforting and elegant? This Creamy Parmesan Basil Chicken is the answer. Juicy chicken breasts cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy sauce with Parmesan and fresh basil create a meal that’s sure to impress. Let’s explore how to make this delightful dish at home.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

For the Creamy Parmesan Basil Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

Preparing the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Heat the Skillet:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Cooking the Chicken

Pan-Searing the Chicken

1. Cook the Chicken:
   • Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and sear on both sides until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Sauce

Creating the Creamy Parmesan Basil Sauce

1. Melt the Butter:
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Cook the Garlic:
   • Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the Cream and Broth:
   • Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in the Parmesan:
   • Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Add the Basil:
   • Stir in the chopped fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combining the Dish

Adding the Sauce to the Chicken

1. Return the Chicken:
   • Add the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet with the creamy Parmesan basil sauce.
2. Coat the Chicken:
   • Toss gently to coat the chicken breasts with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation Tips

1. Plate the Dish:
   • Serve the chicken breasts hot, garnished with extra fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
2. Garnish:
   • Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

Accompaniments

1. Side Salad:
   • Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing side.
2. Rice or Pasta:
   • Serve over rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.

Nutritional Information

Calorie Count

• The calorie count will vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredient brands, but this dish is generally rich in protein and healthy fats from the chicken and cream.

Nutritional Benefits

• This meal provides a good balance of protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the olive oil and cream, and essential vitamins and minerals from the fresh basil and garlic.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Basil Chicken is a luxurious and comforting dish that can turn any meal into a special occasion. The combination of juicy chicken, savory Parmesan, and aromatic basil is sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of gourmet dining at home!

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of protein?

• Yes, you can substitute chicken with other proteins like shrimp, pork chops, or tofu for a different take on this dish.

2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

• You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter, but the sauce may be less rich.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

• You can prepare the sauce ahead of time, but cook the chicken just before serving for the best texture.

4. How do I store leftovers?

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

5. Can I add other ingredients?

• Absolutely! You can add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for additional flavor and nutrition.

Yield: 4

Creamy Parmesan Basil Chicken Recipe

Print

Looking for a dish that’s both comforting and elegant? This Creamy Parmesan Basil Chicken is the answer. Juicy chicken breasts cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy sauce with Parmesan and fresh basil create a meal that’s sure to impress. Let’s explore how to make this delightful dish at home.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pounds chicken breast 2 large breasts
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 large garlic cloves minced
• 1/2 yellow onion finely minced
• 3-4 ounces roasted red peppers thinly sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves plus more for garnish
• 1 cup fresh grated parmesan
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup white wine or chicken stock
• salt to taste
• black pepper to taste

Instructions

• Cut breasts in half lengthwise, pound to even thickness

• In a large non stick pan on medium-medium high heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear, 4-5 minutes on each side, until just cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

• In the same skillet add 1 tablespoons butter. Add onion, garlic, peppers, paprika, red chili pepper flakes, salt and pepper. Saute for about five minutes, until onions and peppers are softened.

• Add wine to deglaze the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer until reduced by half.

• Reduce heat to medium low. Add cream to the skillet and stir until a creamy sauce forms. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Add Parmesan, stir until melted into sauce. Stir in basil, simmer until wilted, 1-2 minutes.

• Add chicken back to the skillet,  allow to warm up if needed.  Serve.