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Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce Recipe

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4.1 from 14 reviews

This Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce recipe features tender, golden-brown chicken cutlets baked to perfection and served with a rich, creamy sauce infused with fresh basil and Parmesan. A perfect blend of comfort and elegance made in just 30 minutes, ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 3/4 cup dried Italian breadcrumbs
  • 3 tablespoons butter

Basil Cream Sauce

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken cutlets: Preheat your oven to 275 degrees F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create two even cutlets from each breast, making four total. Pound each cutlet to an even 1/2-inch thickness.
  2. Coat the chicken: Pour the milk into a shallow bowl and the breadcrumbs into another shallow bowl. Dip each cutlet thoroughly into the milk, then coat well with the breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coverage for a crispy finish.
  3. Sear the chicken: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken cutlets and cook until golden brown on each side, being careful not to burn them. This step helps lock in moisture and develop flavor.
  4. Bake the chicken: Arrange the partially cooked chicken cutlets side by side in the prepared baking dish. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
  5. Make the basil cream sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook over medium heat for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil, stirring to loosen browned bits from the pan. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring continuously for a few seconds.
  6. Finish the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, and black pepper. Continue stirring the sauce until it thickens, about 5 minutes, forming a luscious creamy consistency.
  7. Serve: Plate the baked chicken cutlets and generously spoon the basil cream sauce over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish.

Notes

  • Make sure to pound the chicken cutlets evenly for uniform cooking.
  • Keep an eye on the chicken while searing to avoid burning the breadcrumbs.
  • Fresh basil adds the best flavor, but dried basil can be substituted if needed (use about 1 tablespoon).
  • The sauce thickens as it cools, so serve immediately for the best texture.
  • Internal temperature of chicken should reach 165°F for safe consumption.