Parmesan Basil Chicken

Name: Parmesan Basil Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts: lean protein base; 1 tablespoon olive oil: for searing the chicken; 1 tablespoon butter: adds richness to the sauce; 3 cloves garlic, minced: provides aromatic depth; 1 cup heavy cream: forms the creamy base; 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: adds umami and thickness; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: infuses fresh herbal notes; 1/2 teaspoon salt: enhances flavor; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: adds mild heat; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): for extra spice

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Looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner that feels indulgent but is still simple enough for a weeknight? This Parmesan Basil Chicken recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy, and herbaceous experience that rivals any restaurant entrée. With its rich Parmesan cream sauce, fresh basil, and tender chicken breasts, it’s no surprise this dish has become a staple in home kitchens. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Basil Chicken

This Parmesan Basil Chicken dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort and elegance. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings. The sauce is made from scratch using fresh garlic, cream, and real Parmesan cheese — no canned soups or shortcuts here. Plus, the fresh basil adds a garden-fresh note that elevates every bite.

This recipe is:

Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
Family-friendly – Mild flavors kids and adults will enjoy
Naturally low-carb – Great for keto or gluten-free diets
Rich and creamy – Comfort food done right

Ingredients That Make It Special

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that cooks quickly and stays juicy when pan-seared
• Olive Oil: Helps create a golden-brown crust while keeping the chicken moist
• Butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce
• Garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic flavor
• Heavy Cream: The base of the luxurious Parmesan sauce
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Brings salty, umami richness and helps thicken the sauce naturally
• Fresh Basil (chopped): Adds brightness and a slightly peppery, sweet herbal flavor
• Salt & Pepper: Enhances and balances all the flavors
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick for those who love heat

Smart Swaps and Substitutions

• Chicken Thighs: Swap for chicken breasts if you prefer dark meat – they’ll be juicier and more forgiving.
• Half-and-Half: A lighter substitute for heavy cream, though the sauce may be thinner.
• Pre-Grated Parmesan: Can be used in a pinch, but fresh-grated melts better and gives a smoother sauce.
• Dried Basil: Use if fresh basil is unavailable (use about 1/3 the amount).
• Coconut Cream: Dairy-free alternative for a paleo-friendly version, though it will slightly alter the flavor.

How to Make Parmesan Basil Chicken: Step-by-Step

Prepare the Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce Base
Lower the heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet, then stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Cream and Simmer
Pour in the heavy cream and stir, scraping up any brown bits from the pan for extra flavor. Let the cream simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
Incorporate Parmesan
Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
Add Basil and Chicken
Stir in the chopped basil and return the chicken to the pan. Spoon sauce over the chicken and let everything simmer together for another 2–3 minutes.
Serve
Plate the chicken and spoon over extra sauce. Garnish with more fresh basil or red pepper flakes if desired.

Expert Tips for Success

Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each chicken breast enough space to sear properly; cook in batches if necessary.
Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese can clump or make the sauce grainy.
Thin the sauce if needed: Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
Adjust seasoning last: Taste the sauce after the Parmesan is added before salting again — the cheese is naturally salty.
Store leftovers properly: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid breaking the sauce.

Perfect Pairings and Creative Variations

Side Dish Ideas:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A creamy base to soak up that rich Parmesan sauce
Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Fresh vegetables balance the dish’s richness
Buttered Noodles or Angel Hair Pasta: Simple pasta that complements without competing

Recipe Variations:

Spicy Parmesan Basil Chicken: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne
Gluten-Free Option: Naturally gluten-free — just serve with GF sides
Keto Version: Pair with zoodles, cauliflower mash, or roasted veggies
One-Pan Bake: After searing, finish everything in the oven for a hands-off version

Healthful Twist: Why Basil and Parmesan Are a Winning Combo

Fresh basil is not only aromatic but also packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. When combined with the protein in chicken and the calcium-rich Parmesan cheese, Parmesan Basil Chicken becomes more than a comfort food — it’s a satisfying and balanced meal. This dish fits well into a low-carb or keto lifestyle, and the ingredients are easy to source year-round.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to bring restaurant-quality flavor to your dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen, Parmesan Basil Chicken is the recipe to master. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with the kind of fresh flavor that comes from using simple, high-quality ingredients like fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. This dish isn’t just a quick fix — it’s a go-to favorite you’ll find yourself making again and again. Pair it with your favorite sides, adjust it to your dietary needs, and make it your own.

Frequently Asked Questions About Parmesan Basil Chicken

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest and most accurate way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken — it should be white throughout with clear juices, and no pink.

Can I make Parmesan Basil Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the full dish up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of cream or broth to loosen it.

What type of Parmesan cheese works best?

Freshly grated Parmesan is highly recommended for this recipe. It melts smoothly into the sauce, giving it that velvety, rich texture. Pre-shredded Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce gritty or lumpy.

Can I freeze Parmesan Basil Chicken?

Freezing is possible but not ideal due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate or become grainy when thawed. If you choose to freeze it, let the dish cool completely, then store in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to one month. Reheat slowly while stirring frequently, and consider adding a bit of cream to help the sauce re-emulsify.

More Relevant Recipes

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup: This comforting soup brings together tender chicken, creamy broth, and mild spices for a satisfying bowl that mirrors the richness of Parmesan Basil Chicken while adding a Tex-Mex flair.
White Chicken Enchiladas: A creamy and cheesy chicken dish that shares the indulgent texture and flavor profile of Parmesan Basil Chicken, enhanced with a white sauce and soft tortillas.
Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken: This recipe offers a blend of melty cheese, seasoned chicken, and peppers baked to perfection, aligning with the creamy and savory experience of Parmesan Basil Chicken with a bold twist.

Parmesan Basil Chicken – Best Creamy Recipe

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