This Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce is a delicious treat! Juicy chicken thighs are cooked in a rich and creamy sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, and a splash of cream.
I love how quick this dish is to whip up. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something fancy without the fuss. Serve it with pasta or rice and enjoy a plateful of yum! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or cutlets are perfect. You could swap chicken with turkey cutlets or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Heavy Cream: This gives you that rich taste. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love panko for its extra crunch! If you don’t have it, regular breadcrumbs will work. For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds amazing flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil instead, though fresh is always better!
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re looking for healthier options, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Crispy?
To achieve that golden and crispy coating on your chicken, follow these important steps:
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps to lock in moisture and create that crispy crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Fry in batches if needed. If you crowd the pan, the temperature of the oil drops, and you won’t get that crunch.
- Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes per side. This allows the coating to set perfectly.
Following these tips will ensure your chicken comes out crispy and delicious every time!
Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken cutlets
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)
- 3 tbsp olive oil or butter, for frying
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (for creaminess)
- 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the chicken and setting up the breading station, followed by around 15-20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. Delicious and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken before breading.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station
Now, let’s get organized! In one shallow bowl, put the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with dried Italian herbs, if you’re using them. This will make your coating extra flavorful!
3. Bread the Chicken
Take each seasoned chicken breast and first coat it in flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the extra liquid drip off. Finally, coat the chicken entirely in the panko mixture. This will give it that wonderful crispy texture!
4. Fry the Chicken
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, gently place the breaded chicken into the skillet. Cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm.
5. Make the Creamy Basil Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, stir in the heavy cream, mayonnaise, and chopped fresh basil. Let the sauce simmer gently, stirring frequently, until it’s warmed and slightly thickened, which should take about 2–3 minutes.
6. Season the Sauce
If you like, squeeze in some lemon juice for a fresh kick! Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper to taste. Have a taste-test and adjust as needed.
7. Serve
Now, pour or spoon the creamy basil sauce generously over the cooked chicken cutlets. This sauce is packed with flavor and adds a lovely touch!
8. Enjoy!
Serve your chicken immediately with yummy sides like steamed broccoli or your favorite grains. Enjoy your meal with family or friends, and dig into your crispy chicken smothered in a luscious, herb-filled creamy basil sauce!
FAQ for Easy Chicken in Creamy Basil Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra moisture and rich flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, half-and-half, whole milk with a bit of butter, or coconut cream can be great substitutes! Just keep in mind that the texture and richness will vary slightly.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid drying out the chicken.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy basil sauce in advance! Just store it separately in the fridge, and warm it up on the stove when you’re ready to serve. If the sauce thickens after cooling, you can add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up again.
