Description
Creamy Basil Chicken with Parmesan Sauce is an easy, restaurant-quality dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Juicy chicken breasts are simmered in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce with fresh basil, garlic, and Italian herbs for incredible flavor in every bite. Serve it with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a comforting family meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Pounded to an even thickness for even cooking.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds mild spice.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Boosts savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds classic herbs.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps create a golden crust.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness while searing.
For the Parmesan Basil Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – Creates the base of the sauce.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic provides bold flavor.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Slightly thickens the sauce.
- 1½ cups heavy cream – Creates a rich, silky texture.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds savory, cheesy goodness.
- ½ cup chicken broth – Balances the richness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds herb flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds gentle heat.
- ½ cup chopped fresh basil – Adds freshness and aroma.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
- Chopped parsley
- Cracked black pepper
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet and sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Melt butter in the same skillet and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
- Whisk in the flour, then gradually add the chicken broth.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in the chopped fresh basil.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it with the sauce.
- Simmer for 3–5 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with Parmesan, basil, and parsley, then serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Freshly grated Parmesan creates the smoothest and richest sauce.
- Add fresh basil at the end to preserve its bright flavor and aroma.
- Simmer the sauce gently for the creamiest texture.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 servings
- Calories: 610 calories
