Chicken With Basil Cream Sauce
Tender chicken breasts coated in seasoned bread crumbs, then simmered in a rich basil cream sauce. Flavored with fresh basil, Parmesan, and pimentos, this elegant dish offers a creamy, herbaceous taste perfect for a comforting yet sophisticated meal suited for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. butter or margarine ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. chicken flavor instant bouillon ⓘ
- 1/2 cup packed thinly sliced fresh basil leaves ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1/4 cup milk ⓘ
- 1/4 cup seasoned dried bread crumbs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (4 oz.) jar pimentos, sliced 1/4-inch thick ⓘ
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- fresh basil sprigs for garnish ⓘ
Instructions
- About 30 minutes before serving, cut each chicken breast in half.
- Pour milk into a pie plate.
- Place bread crumbs on waxed paper.
- Dip chicken breasts into milk, then into bread crumbs to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or shallots to the butter before cooking the chicken. You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a lighter option. If fresh basil isn't available, dried basil can be used, but reduce the amount to about 1 tablespoon. This dish also pairs well with a side of Zucchini Bisque for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken topped with the basil cream sauce and garnish with fresh basil sprigs for added color. This dish goes wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a light salad. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with rice or pasta, which will soak up the cream sauce beautifully, complementing the chicken perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating. You can also microwave the chicken on a low setting, covered, for about 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken With Basil Cream Sauce contains roughly 306 calories, with 5g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's best to thaw them completely before cooking for even cooking. You can defrost them overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave's defrost setting. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F when cooked.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?
If you're looking for a lighter alternative to heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt. For a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream or coconut milk, though the flavor will slightly differ from traditional heavy cream.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the cream sauce. You can also serve the chicken with a spicy dipping sauce on the side. Adjust the spice level according to your preference to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).