Golden seared chicken simmered in a silky cream sauce infused with garlic, wine, and fresh basil - that's a winner winner chicken dinner right there. This chicken with basil cream sauce feels elegant enough for date night yet is quick and easy enough to whip up on a weeknight. A splash of Chardonnay and a handful of fresh basil take this dish up a notch and you can bet it will become a new family favorite.
Why you'll love this creamy basil chicken recipe
There are plenty of reasons this skillet chicken will win you over. It's flavorful, easy, and guaranteed to impress.
A rich, flavorful sauce. The combination of garlic, basil, butter, cream, and wine creates a sauce that's velvety, aromatic, and irresistible spooned over chicken, pasta, or rice.
Quick and simple. You can have this dish on the table in about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy nights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
One-skillet convenience. From cooking the chicken to whisking together the sauce, everything comes together in a single pan, which means fewer dishes to clean. Yay!
Elegant yet cozy. Whether you're cooking for guests or just your family, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between a restaurant-quality meal and weeknight comfort food.
Ingredients and what they bring to the dish
This recipe uses simple and fresh ingredients to build layers of flavor in the creamy sauce:
- Chicken breasts - Lean protein that stays tender when simmered in sauce.
- Butter - Adds richness and helps brown the chicken.
- Green onions - Provide mild onion flavor and a little sweetness.
- Garlic - The base of the creamy garlic basil chicken flavor.
- Flour - Thickens the sauce to a luscious consistency.
- Half and half - Adds creaminess without being too heavy.
- Chardonnay - Brings depth, acidity, and a subtle fruitiness to the sauce.
- Fresh basil - The star of the show, adding fragrant, herby brightness.
- Salt and pepper - Essential seasonings that bring everything together.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) - A little kick of heat to balance the creaminess.
- Parmesan cheese - Savory garnish that melts into the sauce for extra richness.
How to make chicken in basil cream sauce
Cooking the chicken and making the basil cream sauce all in one pan makes this recipe simple and fuss-free. Here's how to do it:
- Brown chicken in a skillet with butter. Cook 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and season with salt and pepper.
- Add green onions and garlic to skillet.
- Sauté until caramelized, about 4 minutes. Whisk in flour, stirring constantly, until well incorporated.
- Slowly add half and half and wine, whisking continuously until it develops into a creamy sauce, about 3 minutes.
- Add basil, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper to skillet. Stir.
- Add chicken back to the skillet and let simmer until warmed through.
I like to serve mine over pasta but it is just as delicious over rice. Sprinkle it with Parmesan cheese and garnish with a sprig of basil. Enjoy!
Recipe tips for success
Even though this creamy basil chicken skillet is easy, a few tips will help you nail it every time.
Don't overcook the chicken. Sear until golden, but remember it will finish cooking while it simmers in the sauce.
Use a dry white wine. A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc works best for flavor balance. If you prefer not to use wine, swap in extra chicken broth.
Fresh basil is a must. Dried basil won't deliver the same vibrant flavor. Use fresh leaves for the best results.
Whisk constantly. When adding the half and half and wine, whisk continuously to avoid lumps and to get a silky-smooth sauce.
Serve right away. The sauce is at its creamiest fresh off the stove, so don't let it sit too long before serving.
Recipe variations to make it your own
This chicken and basil cream sauce is flexible enough to adapt to your tastes:
- Protein swap. Use boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness, or even shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Veggie boost. Stir in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for more texture and nutrition.
- No wine option. Replace the Chardonnay with chicken broth and add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Spice it up. Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne for more heat.
- Cheesy upgrade. Melt in extra Parmesan or add a handful of mozzarella for an ultra-rich sauce.
What to serve with creamy basil chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with sides that soak up the sauce or add freshness to balance the richness.
- Pasta. Fettuccine, penne, or linguine make the perfect base.
- Rice. Fluffy white rice or wild rice absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Roasted vegetables. Broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini add a fresh, crisp element.
- Garlic bread. Ideal for scooping up every last drop of sauce. See how to make garlic bread in an air fryer.
- Salad. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette keeps things light.
How to store and freeze leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or half and half to loosen the sauce if needed.
To freeze, place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, stirring in a little cream to revive the sauce.
More skillet chicken recipes
- Chicken and Orzo Skillet
- Chicken and Tortellini Skillet
- Chicken Chablis with Mushrooms
- Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Skillet
- French Onion Chicken Skillet
Find lots of quick and easy skillet meals here on 2CM!
CREAMY BASIL CHICKEN
Ingredients
- 4 Tablespoons butter
- 2-3 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless
- 2 green onions sliced thinly
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 Tablespoons flour
- ½ cup half and half
- 1 cup Chardonnay or other dry white wine
- ¼ cup fresh basil finely chopped and packed firmly
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh cracked pepper
- ¼-1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Garnish: grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken, cooking 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the pan. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add onion to skillet and sauté 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and continue sautéing until mixture begins to caramelize, about 3-4 more minutes.
- Whisk in flour slowly, stirring constantly, until well mixed. Slowly add half and half and wine, whisking constantly until it forms a creamy sauce, about 3 minutes.
- Add chopped basil, salt, pepper and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper.
- Place the chicken back into the skillet and simmer until the chicken has warmed. Serve over pasta or rice and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Remaining sauce can be served on the side.
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