The Ultimate Creamy Basil Chicken with Pimiento Sauce: A Quick & Flavorful Dinner
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this incredibly rich and creamy chicken dish, a true crowd-pleaser that quickly became a staple in our meal plans. Featuring tender, breaded, and perfectly sautéed chicken breasts smothered in a luscious cream sauce, this recipe is elevated by the bright, aromatic notes of fresh basil and the sweet, subtle tang of pimientos. It’s an elegant yet easy-to-make meal that brings gourmet flavor to your weeknight table without the fuss.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, our Chicken with Basil Cream Sauce delivers on all fronts. The combination of textures—crispy chicken, silky sauce, and al dente pasta—creates a symphony in every bite, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.
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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Basil Chicken Pasta
This isn’t just another chicken dinner; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:
- Effortlessly Delicious: Despite its gourmet taste, this dish is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Satisfying: The velvety cream sauce, infused with fragrant basil and savory Parmesan, perfectly coats the tender chicken, creating a truly comforting meal.
- Versatile & Adaptable: While we love it with pasta, this chicken is delicious with various sides, offering flexibility to suit your preferences.
- Fresh Flavors: The inclusion of fresh basil and pimientos adds a vibrant freshness and a subtle sweetness that brightens the entire dish.
- Family-Friendly: A universally appealing flavor profile ensures that even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds.
Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this delightful creation!
Time Needed for Creamy Basil Chicken
One of the many charms of Chicken with Basil Cream Sauce is its remarkable efficiency. You can have this delectable meal on the table in approximately 35-40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick stovetop dinner after a long day. The key to its speed lies in a few smart steps:
- Thin Cutlets: If you start with thin chicken cutlets, they cook quickly and evenly, reducing the time spent browning. For regular chicken breasts, a few minutes of pounding can achieve the same rapid cooking benefit.
- Simultaneous Cooking: The beauty of this recipe is that your pasta can boil and cook to perfection while you are busy preparing the rich cream sauce. This multitasking approach significantly cuts down on overall meal prep time.
- Quick Sauce: The basil cream sauce comes together in a flash, requiring minimal cooking time after the chicken is sautéed. It’s a simple pour, stir, and simmer process that yields maximum flavor.
With a little organization, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful chicken dish in no time, proving that delicious home-cooked meals don’t always require hours in the kitchen.
Essential Ingredients for Basil Cream Chicken
The magic of this creamy basil chicken dish lies in a handful of readily available ingredients that combine to create an extraordinary flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few notes to help you make the best choices:
- Milk: Used for dipping the chicken, it helps the breadcrumbs adhere and ensures a moist interior. Any type of milk works here, from whole to skim.
- Bread Crumbs: Panko bread crumbs offer a crispier texture, but standard dry bread crumbs work perfectly for a golden, crunchy coating on your chicken.
- Thin Cut Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are ideal for quick and even cooking. If you have thicker breasts, simply pound them to an even ¼-inch thickness.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor when browning the chicken.
- Olive Oil: Used in conjunction with butter, it helps prevent the butter from burning at higher temperatures, ensuring a beautiful golden crust on the chicken.
- Chicken Broth: Forms the base of your cream sauce, adding depth and savory notes. Low-sodium options are great for controlling salt levels.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: The star of the creamy sauce, providing luxurious texture and richness. Don’t substitute with lighter creams if you want that decadent feel.
- Diced Pimientos: These provide a beautiful pop of red color and a subtle, sweet, and mild pepper flavor that complements the basil and cream beautifully. Ensure they are well-drained.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami depth to the sauce, thickening it slightly and enhancing the overall savoriness. Freshly grated is always recommended for superior flavor.
- Minced Fresh Basil: This is a non-negotiable for the “basil” in “basil cream sauce.” Fresh basil offers an unparalleled aromatic and herbaceous note that dried basil simply cannot replicate. Aim for brightly colored, fragrant leaves.
- Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of spice and warmth. Adjust to your taste.
- Cornstarch: Our secret weapon for thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency without a grainy texture. Mixed with a small amount of broth, it creates a smooth, luscious finish.
- Spaghetti or Vermicelli: The perfect bed for this saucy chicken. Vermicelli is thinner and cooks faster, while spaghetti offers a more classic pairing. Choose your favorite!
Gathering these quality ingredients is the first step towards creating a truly memorable meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken with Basil Cream Sauce
Creating this delightful creamy basil chicken dish is straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked chicken and a luscious, flavorful sauce.
Before You Begin: Prep & Setup
Before you dive into cooking, ensure you have everything ready. It’s always a good idea to set up a warm spot (a warm oven on its lowest setting or a microwave with a “keep warm” function) where you can place the cooked chicken to keep it warm while you finish the sauce and pasta. This ensures your chicken stays tender and hot for serving.
For the chicken breading process, create an assembly line to make it efficient and mess-free:
- Start with your prepared chicken breasts (flattened to an even thickness for best results).
- Next, a shallow bowl containing the milk.
- Then, another bowl with the bread crumbs.
- Finally, your large skillet, heated and ready with butter and olive oil.
Cooking the Chicken
- Bread the Chicken: Take each chicken breast, dip it completely in the milk, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess milk drip off. Then, transfer it to the bowl with bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs evenly on both sides.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat the butter and olive oil in your large skillet over medium heat until the butter is melted and sizzling slightly. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Brown the chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). This usually takes about 4-6 minutes per side for thin cutlets.
- Keep Warm: Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and transfer them to your pre-warmed oven or microwave to keep them hot while you prepare the sauce. Leave the flavorful drippings in the skillet—they’re essential for the sauce!
Crafting the Basil Cream Sauce & Pasta
- Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is keeping warm, start cooking your spaghetti or vermicelli according to package directions. You want it to be al dente and ready around the same time your sauce is finished. Drain well when done.
- Deglaze the Pan: Return to the skillet with the chicken drippings. Add all but 3 tablespoons of the chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly to loosen any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits are packed with flavor!
- Add Cream & Pimientos: Pour in the heavy whipping cream and the drained diced pimientos. Stir gently and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue cooking for about one minute, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
- Incorporate Cheese & Seasoning: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, minced fresh basil, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small jar or cup, combine the cornstarch with the reserved 3 tablespoons of chicken broth. Secure the lid (if using a jar) and shake vigorously until completely smooth, or whisk thoroughly in a cup. This slurry is crucial for thickening.
- Finish the Sauce: Pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering cream sauce, stirring continuously over medium heat. The sauce will begin to thicken quite quickly. Cook for another minute or two until it reaches your desired consistency—a rich, smooth, and coating texture.
Serving Your Delicious Meal
Once the pasta is drained and the sauce is perfectly thickened, it’s time to serve. Place a generous portion of pasta on each serving dish. Top the pasta with one or two of the warm, breaded chicken breasts. Finally, spoon the irresistible basil cream sauce generously over the chicken and pasta. Garnish with a fresh basil leaf if desired for an extra touch of elegance. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Expert Tips for a Perfect Basil Cream Chicken
Basil Brilliance: Fresh vs. Dried
When it comes to basil in this recipe, fresh is undeniably best. The vibrant, sweet, and slightly peppery aroma of fresh basil truly shines in a cream sauce, making it the star of the show. Dried basil, while convenient, has a more muted flavor profile that simply can’t compare. If you have the option, always reach for fresh basil.
To ensure you always have fresh basil on hand, consider growing it yourself! I maintain 2-3 pots of basil in my brightest window all year long. It’s a surprisingly resilient herb and provides a continuous supply of fragrant leaves. When mincing, stack the leaves, roll them tightly like a cigar, and then slice thinly to create delicate ribbons (chiffonade) before mincing for the best texture and release of flavor.
If fresh basil is absolutely impossible to find, you can substitute with dried basil, but use about one-third of the amount (e.g., 1 tablespoon dried for ¼ cup fresh) as its flavor is more concentrated. However, for the ultimate experience, a trip to the grocery store for fresh basil is well worth it.
Chicken Preparation: Achieving Even Perfection
The secret to perfectly cooked, tender chicken breasts in this dish lies in their thickness. Thin cutlets or evenly pounded chicken breasts are crucial. Why?
- Even Cooking: Uneven thickness means that by the time the thicker center of the chicken is cooked through, the thinner edges might be dry and overcooked. Uniform thickness ensures that every bite is tender and juicy.
- Faster Cooking: Thinner chicken cooks much more quickly, contributing to the overall speed of this recipe.
If you’re starting with regular, thicker boneless, skinless chicken breasts, achieving even thickness is simple: place each breast between two sheets of wax paper or plastic wrap. Using the flat side of a meat mallet (or a rolling pin or heavy skillet), gently pound the chicken until it reaches an even ¼-inch to ½-inch thickness. This not only tenderizes the meat but also guarantees a consistent cooking time and a beautifully crispy coating.
Always ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Recipe
Chicken with Basil Cream Sauce
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Ingredients
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup dry bread crumbs
- 1 pound thin cut boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 ounces diced pimientos, drained
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup minced fresh basil, or 1 tablespoon dried
- ⅛ tablespoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 8 ounces spaghetti or vermicelli
Instructions
Chicken
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Set up an assembly line with 1 pound thin cut boneless skinless chicken breasts, a shallow bowl with ¼ cup milk, and a bowl with ¼ cup dry bread crumbs.
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Dip chicken in milk, then bread crumbs, ensuring an even coating.
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In a large skillet, brown chicken on both sides in 3 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until golden brown and thoroughly cooked (165°F internal temperature). Remove chicken to a plate and keep warm.
Sauce & Serving
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Concurrently, cook 8 ounces spaghetti or vermicelli according to package directions. Drain when done.
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To the chicken drippings in the skillet, add all but 3 tablespoons of the ½ cup chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir to loosen any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
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Stir in 1 cup heavy whipping cream and 4 ounces diced pimientos (drained). Bring to a simmer and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
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Reduce heat and add ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup minced fresh basil, and ⅛ tablespoon pepper. Stir until cheese is melted.
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In a small container, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with the remaining 3 tablespoons broth until smooth.
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Add the cornstarch mixture to the heated sauce, stirring over medium heat until thickened to your desired consistency.
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Place chicken over pasta on each serving dish and generously pour the basil cream sauce over the chicken and pasta. Serve immediately.
Notes
Using thin-cut chicken breasts ensures even cooking and tenderness. If using regular chicken breasts, pound them to an even thickness (about ¼ to ½ inch) between two pieces of wax paper using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This prevents the edges from drying out while the center cooks.
Nutrition per serving
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Perfect Side Dishes for Creamy Basil Chicken
This Chicken with Basil Cream Sauce is a complete meal in itself when served over pasta, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the dining experience further. The goal is to choose accompaniments that complement the rich, flavorful sauce without overpowering it.
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing green salad is a classic choice. A simple vinaigrette dressing with lemon and olive oil will cut through the richness of the cream sauce and add a lovely counterpoint. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a sprinkle of croutons.
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that incredible basil cream sauce! A warm baguette or a slice of homemade garlic bread is a must-have.
- Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: For a healthier option, lightly steamed broccoli florets or asparagus spears offer a delicate crunch and a vibrant green color. A squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt are all they need.
- Buttered Peas or Green Beans: Simple and comforting, buttered peas or lightly sautéed green beans provide a touch of sweetness and tenderness that pairs well with the creamy chicken.
- Sautéed Sugar Snap Peas: These offer a delightful crunch and natural sweetness, which are fantastic alongside the savory chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: If you want something a bit more robust, roasted root vegetables like carrots or small potatoes can be a hearty addition, offering an earthy sweetness.
Avoid overly complex or heavily spiced side dishes, as they might compete with the nuanced flavors of the basil cream sauce. Simple, fresh, and light options work best to create a balanced and satisfying meal.
Variations and Customizations for Your Creamy Chicken
While this recipe is fantastic as is, don’t hesitate to make it your own! Here are some ideas to customize your Creamy Basil Chicken with Pimiento Sauce:
- Different Proteins: Instead of chicken, try this sauce with pan-seared pork tenderloin medallions or even large shrimp for a seafood variation. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Add More Vegetables: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach (added at the end to wilt), or sun-dried tomatoes (for a more intense, tangy flavor) can be wonderful additions to the sauce.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! A touch of fontina or Gruyere can add a nutty depth, or a sharper provolone for a more robust flavor.
- Spicier Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the other seasonings.
- Herb Alternatives: While fresh basil is highly recommended, if you want to change the flavor profile, fresh parsley or a hint of fresh thyme could also work, though the “basil cream sauce” character would change.
- Gluten-Free Option: Easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free bread crumbs for the chicken coating and serving it over gluten-free pasta. Ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Option: This would require more significant changes, but coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative (like cashew cream) could potentially be used for the sauce, although the flavor profile would be different.
Feel free to experiment with these variations to discover your new favorite version of this versatile creamy chicken dish!
Storage and Reheating Leftovers
Having leftovers of this delicious Creamy Basil Chicken is a treat! Here’s how to properly store and reheat them to maintain their quality:
- Storage: Allow any leftover chicken and pasta with sauce to cool completely to room temperature (within 2 hours of cooking). Transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, it’s ideal to store the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta if possible, as the pasta can absorb too much sauce and become mushy.
- Reheating on the Stovetop: This is generally the best method for maintaining texture. Place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir gently and heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. If reheating with pasta, add a splash of liquid and stir frequently.
- Reheating in the Microwave: For a quick reheat, place individual servings of chicken, sauce, and pasta (if combined) in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until thoroughly warmed. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the chicken and cause the sauce to separate.
- Freezing: While technically possible, freezing cream-based sauces can sometimes lead to a slightly grainy or separated texture upon reheating. If you choose to freeze, store the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop with a little added liquid. The breaded coating on the chicken may lose its crispiness after freezing and reheating.
Enjoying your leftovers can be just as delightful as the first meal with these simple tips!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about making Chicken with Basil Cream Sauce:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Yes, you can! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs would also work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to stay moister than breasts. Adjust cooking time as thighs might take a little longer to cook through.
- What if I don’t have fresh pimientos?
- While pimientos add a distinct flavor and color, if you don’t have them, you can omit them. For a similar red color and mild sweetness, a very small amount of finely diced roasted red bell pepper (from a jar) could be a substitute.
- My sauce is too thin/too thick. How can I fix it?
- If the sauce is too thin, you can create another small cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1-2 tsp cold water or broth) and gradually whisk it into the simmering sauce until it reaches your desired thickness. If it’s too thick, simply whisk in a splash more chicken broth or milk until it thins out to your preference.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- The chicken is best served immediately after cooking to preserve its crispy breading. However, you can make the cream sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of liquid, then cook the chicken and pasta just before serving.
- Is this recipe spicy?
- No, this recipe is not spicy as written. Pimientos are very mild peppers. The “pepper” ingredient refers to black pepper, which adds flavor, not heat. If you prefer a spicy dish, you can add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Conclusion
There you have it – a recipe for a Creamy Basil Chicken with Pimiento Sauce that is not only delicious and comforting but also surprisingly easy to prepare. This dish perfectly marries the crispiness of breaded chicken with a lush, herb-infused cream sauce, creating a meal that feels both indulgent and wonderfully balanced.
Whether it becomes your new go-to weeknight dinner or a special meal for gatherings, we’re confident you’ll fall in love with its rich flavors and simple elegance. Don’t forget to savor every creamy, basil-kissed bite. Happy cooking!
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