Ingredients
For the chicken
The ingredients for this delightful Chicken in Basil Cream recipe are carefully selected to create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
For the basil cream sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Additional ingredients
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Cooked pasta or rice for serving (optional)
- The combination of these ingredients will result in a creamy, flavorful sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
The key ingredient for this recipe is 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, which serve as the protein component. These chicken breasts are ideal because they are lean and tender, allowing them to absorb flavors well without becoming too dry or tough.
When selecting chicken breasts, it’s essential to choose those that are free of bones and skin, as this will make cooking and handling much easier. Look for fresh, high-quality chicken with a uniform color and firm texture.
The boneless skinless aspect is crucial because it allows the flavors from the sauce to penetrate more evenly throughout the meat. Without the bones, there’s no risk of small pieces getting stuck in your teeth or creating an unpleasant texture.
Each chicken breast typically weighs around 6-8 ounces (170-225g), but the exact weight may vary depending on the store and region you’re shopping in. When cooking with chicken breasts, it’s best to use fresh ones as they will yield better results in terms of taste and texture.
When handling boneless skinless chicken breasts, it’s recommended to wash your hands thoroughly before and after touching them. This is especially important if you’ll be cooking other ingredients or serving food simultaneously to prevent cross-contamination.
The 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts will need to be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. The recommended cooking time for these chicken breasts varies depending on the method used, but generally falls between 15-25 minutes when baked in a preheated oven.
Salt and pepper to taste
When it comes to seasoning a dish like Chicken In Basil Cream, there are certain ingredients that play a crucial role in bringing out the flavors. Salt and pepper, in particular, are staples in every kitchen.
Salt is essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken, basil, and cream. It helps to balance the sweetness of the cream and adds depth to the dish.
Here are some key facts about salt:
- Type: Salt (sodium chloride)
- Purpose: Enhance flavor and preserve food
- Taste: Salty, savory
- Usage: Use in moderation (about 1/4 teaspoon per serving)
Pepper, on the other hand, adds a sharp, pungent flavor to the dish. It’s essential for cutting through the richness of the cream and highlighting the flavors of the basil and chicken.
Here are some key facts about pepper:
- Type: Black or white peppercorns
- Purpose: Add flavor and aroma
- Taste: Pungent, sharp
- Usage: Use in small amounts (about 1/8 teaspoon per serving)
The phrase “to taste” is often used when it comes to seasoning a dish. This means that the amount of salt and pepper added will depend on individual preferences.
Some people prefer a light, subtle seasoning, while others like their food more heavily seasoned. When using the phrase “to taste,” it’s essential to remember that it’s better to start with small amounts and adjust as needed.
This is especially true when working with salt and pepper in a recipe like Chicken In Basil Cream. A little bit of seasoning can go a long way, and too much can overpower the other flavors in the dish.
When using salt and pepper “to taste” in this recipe, start by adding a small amount (about 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/8 teaspoon of pepper) and adjust as needed. You can always add more seasoning, but it’s harder to remove excess seasoning from the dish.
Remember, the key is to balance the flavors and find the perfect harmony between the chicken, basil, cream, salt, and pepper. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be able to create a delicious Chicken In Basil Cream that’s sure to impress!
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
To complete this dish, we will need a few fresh basil leaves for garnish. Fresh basil is an essential component in many Italian and Thai dishes, providing a bright, herbaceous flavor to balance out richer ingredients.
A key characteristic of good quality basil is its vibrant green color and aromatic fragrance. We will need about 4-6 leaves for garnish, depending on their size and the desired intensity of flavor.
The process begins by selecting fresh basil with no signs of wilting or discoloration. Choose leaves with a delicate balance between softness and firmness, as these will hold up best to handling and cooking.
To prepare the basil for garnish, we can either chop it finely or leave it whole and tie it in small bunches. For most purposes, chopped basil works well, adding a burst of fresh flavor to each dish.
Here are some key steps to keep in mind when selecting and handling basil:
- Pick basil with bright green leaves and no signs of wilting or discoloration.
- Choose basil leaves with a delicate balance between softness and firmness.
- Select the right amount for garnish, depending on leaf size and desired flavor intensity.
- Chop finely for most purposes, or tie in small bunches if preferred.
In conclusion, fresh basil leaves are a crucial ingredient in many dishes, including this Chicken In Basil Cream Recipe. By selecting the right quality and handling it carefully, we can ensure that our dishes are bursting with fresh flavor and aroma.
For the sauce
The key to making an exceptional chicken in basil cream recipe lies in using high-quality ingredients for both the chicken and the sauce. For the chicken, you’ll want to start with fresh boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Select breasts that are about 1-1.5 pounds each and have a nice, even thickness to ensure they cook consistently throughout.
For the basil cream sauce, you will need some key ingredients, including:
- Heavy cream: This is the base of your sauce, providing richness and a luxurious texture.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is best for this recipe as it allows the flavors to shine through without any added saltiness.
- Garlic: Use 3-4 cloves of fresh garlic, minced, to add depth and a hint of pungency to your sauce.
- Fresh basil leaves: This is where the magic happens! Fresh basil adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of cream. You’ll want about 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn into smaller pieces.
- Grana Padano or Parmesan cheese: A hard, aged Italian cheese, such as Grana Padano or Parmesan, adds a salty, nutty flavor that balances out the creaminess of your sauce. Use about 1/2 cup grated cheese for this recipe.
- White pepper: This will add a subtle kick of heat without overwhelming the other flavors. Use about 1/4 teaspoon white pepper.
- Lemon juice or zest: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or some finely chopped lemon zest adds a touch of brightness and acidity to balance out the richness of your sauce. Use about 2 tablespoons lemon juice or 1 teaspoon lemon zest.
2 tablespoons butter
In the recipe for Chicken in Basil Cream, two tablespoons of butter are an essential ingredient to create a rich and flavorful sauce. The butter serves as a starting point for making a roux, which is a mixture of fat and flour used to thicken sauces.
The use of butter instead of other fats like oil or margarine adds a distinct taste and texture to the dish. Butter contains milk solids, which caramelize when heated, contributing to the development of flavor in the sauce. This process enhances the overall flavor profile of the chicken and the basil cream.
When using two tablespoons of butter in this recipe, it is essential to note that the quality of the butter can impact the final result. High-quality butter with a high fat content will produce a richer and more complex flavor than lower-grade butter. In contrast, low-fat or margarine may not provide the same depth of flavor.
The amount of butter required in this recipe is also significant. Using only two tablespoons ensures that the sauce remains smooth and creamy without becoming too thick or overpowering. If too much butter were used, it could lead to an unpleasant texture and a loss of control over the final consistency of the dish.
In addition to its flavor-enhancing properties, the use of butter in this recipe also serves a practical purpose. The melted butter helps to coat the chicken, ensuring that it cooks evenly and prevents the formation of dry or burnt areas.
The interplay between the butter, the flour, and the cream creates a harmonious balance of flavors that elevates the dish from a simple chicken recipe to an elegant and sophisticated culinary experience. The rich and creamy sauce is perfectly complemented by the subtle flavor of basil, creating a truly unique taste sensation that will leave diners wanting more.
Overall, the two tablespoons of butter in this Chicken in Basil Cream recipe are crucial for achieving a perfect balance of flavors and textures that define an exceptional culinary experience. By carefully selecting high-quality butter and using it judiciously, chefs can unlock a world of flavors and possibilities in this classic dish.
1/4 cup allpurpose flour
The all-purpose flour used in this recipe plays a crucial role in thickening the basil cream sauce and preventing it from becoming too thin. Here are some key things to consider when working with all-purpose flour:
All-purpose flour, also known as soft wheat flour, is a type of wheat flour that can be used for baking a wide variety of products, from bread and cakes to cookies and pastries. It has a neutral flavor and a high protein content, making it an ideal choice for many recipes.
In the context of this Chicken In Basil Cream Recipe, the all-purpose flour is used as a thickening agent in the basil cream sauce. Here’s how to use it effectively:
Using 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Measure out 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. You can use either the spoon-and-level method or a digital kitchen scale to get an accurate measurement.
- Mix the flour with a small amount of water or cream to create a smooth, thin paste. The ratio is typically 1:1, but you may need to adjust this depending on your desired consistency.
- Add the flour mixture to the basil cream sauce and whisk until it’s fully incorporated.
- Continue cooking the sauce over low heat, stirring constantly, until it reaches the desired thickness. This can take anywhere from 5-15 minutes, depending on your stovetop temperature and the consistency you’re aiming for.
Some tips to keep in mind when working with all-purpose flour as a thickening agent:
- Avoid overmixing the sauce, as this can cause it to become lumpy or grainy.
- If you find that your sauce is too thin, you can always add more flour mixture in small increments and whisk until combined.
- To prevent lumps from forming, make sure to cook the sauce over low heat and stir constantly while it’s thickening.
1 cup heavy cream
The ingredient “1 cup heavy cream” is a crucial component in the Chicken In Basil Cream recipe, providing a rich and creamy base for the dish.
Heavy cream is a dairy product that consists of approximately 36-40% fat content, which contributes to its high calorie count and luxurious texture.
In the context of this recipe, heavy cream serves multiple purposes:
- It adds a velvety smoothness to the sauce, coating the chicken breasts in a creamy film.
- Heavy cream enhances the flavor of the dish with its subtle sweetness and richness.
- It helps to balance out the acidity from the lemon juice and the brightness from the basil, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
The key characteristics of heavy cream that make it an ideal choice for this recipe include:
- High fat content, which contributes to its rich and creamy texture.
- A neutral flavor profile, allowing it to take on the flavors of the surrounding ingredients without overpowering them.
- A stable emulsion, meaning that it will not separate or break down when heated or cooled, ensuring a smooth and consistent texture throughout the cooking process.
When working with heavy cream in this recipe, it’s essential to note that it can be easily overcooked, which can result in an unpleasant grainy or separated texture. To avoid this, it’s recommended to:
- Add the heavy cream towards the end of cooking time, allowing it to heat through gently and prevent scorching.
- Stir the sauce constantly while heating the heavy cream to ensure a smooth and even texture.
Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
To cook chicken for the Chicken in Basil Cream recipe, follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- Season each chicken breast with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a plate or tray.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
- Pan-frying: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Step 4: Rest the Chicken
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Now that you have your cooked chicken, you can proceed with making the Basil Cream sauce to serve over the top of the chicken. Simply combine heavy cream, chopped basil leaves, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a saucepan and heat until warm and bubbly. Serve immediately!
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
To begin preparing the delicious Chicken In Basil Cream recipe, it’s essential to preheat your oven to the correct temperature. This step is crucial as it ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
The first instruction is to preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s worth noting that this temperature may vary depending on your personal preference for cooking chicken. However, 375°F is a widely accepted temperature that results in tender and juicy chicken breasts.
When heating the oven to 375°F, make sure to check the internal temperature of the oven using an oven thermometer. This will ensure that your oven has reached the correct temperature before proceeding with the recipe.
If you have a convection setting on your oven, you can also use it at this stage. Convection cooking helps to distribute heat evenly throughout the chicken breasts, resulting in a more even browning and crispier texture.
Once the oven has reached the correct temperature, carefully place the prepared chicken breasts onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will make cleanup easier and prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan.
Maintain your oven’s heat at 375°F (190°C) throughout the cooking process. Depending on the size of your chicken breasts, they may take anywhere from 20-30 minutes to cook through. Be sure to check for doneness by inserting an instant-read meat thermometer into the thickest part of each breast.
After cooking the chicken breasts for 20-30 minutes, remove them from the oven and let them rest on a plate or tray for a few minutes before slicing and serving with the Basil Cream sauce. This final step is crucial in retaining the juicy texture and flavors of your cooked chicken.
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper and a pinch of basil
To prepare the season chicken breasts for the Chicken in Basil Cream recipe, follow these steps:
- First, take 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts and place them on a clean work surface.
- Rinse each chicken breast under cold water to remove any impurities or blood. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from interfering with the seasonings.
- In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of dried basil (about 1/4 teaspoon).
- Now, sprinkle the salt, pepper, and basil mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.
- Make sure to coat the chicken breasts generously with the seasonings, but avoid applying too much pressure, which can cause the meat to tear or become compacted.
- Gently massage the seasonings into the chicken using your fingertips, ensuring that they adhere evenly and consistently throughout the meat.
- Once the chicken breasts are seasoned, set them aside on a plate or tray until you’re ready to cook them according to the recipe instructions.
Panfry the chicken in butter until browned on both sides
- To achieve the perfect pan-fried chicken, start by heating a generous amount of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the butter has melted and started to foam, carefully place 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the skillet.
- Maintain a steady temperature by adjusting the heat as needed to prevent the chicken from burning or cooking too quickly.
- You’ll know the chicken is ready to be turned when it develops a nice golden-brown crust on one side, which should take about 5-6 minutes.
- Use tongs or a spatula to carefully flip each piece of chicken over and continue cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes, until both sides are evenly browned.
- During this time, the internal temperature of the chicken should reach at least 165°F to ensure food safety.
- Once the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned on both sides, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to rest before slicing and serving with your Basil Cream sauce.
Bake the chicken for 2025 minutes or until cooked through
To ensure that you achieve perfect results when following the instructions to bake the chicken, it’s essential to understand the cooking time and method specified for this particular recipe.
The recipe instructs to bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through. This range of cooking time is crucial because different ovens have varying heating capacities, which can affect the cooking duration.
Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how to achieve the desired level of doneness in your chicken:
- Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature. Make sure it’s set at 400°F (200°C) for this particular recipe.
- Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking.
- Drizzle the basil cream sauce over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and set the timer according to the recipe’s instructions (20-25 minutes).
- After 20 minutes, start checking the chicken for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast or thigh. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- If you prefer your chicken more well-done, continue baking it in 5-minute increments until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- It’s also important to note that the chicken is done when it feels firm to the touch and there are no pinkish hues visible. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and cook the chicken a bit longer.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing or serving.
- This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful. The basil cream sauce will also have had time to set and thicken slightly, coating the chicken with a rich and creamy glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Garnishing with Fresh Basil
To enhance the flavors and presentation of the Chicken in Basil Cream recipe, several serving suggestions are recommended.
Garnishing with Fresh Basil
One of the most visually appealing ways to serve this dish is by garnishing it with fresh basil leaves. This herb not only adds a pop of color but also releases its fragrance and flavor oils when chopped or bruised, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Ways to Use Fresh Basil
- Cut the fresh basil leaves into thin strips or chiffonade them to release their flavor oils and add them on top of the dish.
- Use a microplane or fine grater to grate the basil leaves over the chicken and cream sauce, adding a delicate texture and aroma.
- Mix chopped fresh basil into the cream sauce before serving for an intense herb flavor.
Additional Serving Suggestions
Another way to enhance this dish is by serving it with some crusty bread or over egg noodles. This will help to soak up the flavorful cream sauce and add texture to each bite.
- Serve the chicken in basil cream with toasted baguette slices, garlic breadsticks, or croutons for added crunch.
- Pair the dish with cooked egg noodles, rice, or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.
Consider adding some acidity to balance out the richness of the cream sauce. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of white wine can enhance the flavors and add depth to the dish.
Chopped fresh basil adds a bright and refreshing flavor to the dish
- This Chicken In Basil Cream Recipe is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a truly exceptional dish.
- The key to this recipe’s success lies in its ability to balance rich and creamy flavors with the bright, refreshing taste of fresh basil.
- Chopped fresh basil adds a depth and complexity to the dish that is hard to replicate with dried or frozen herbs.
- The leaves are delicate and tender, with a slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory taste of chicken and cream.
- To get the most out of your fresh basil, be sure to use only the leaves and not the stems, as they can be a bit tough and bitter.
- You can chop the basil just before using it, or you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- One of the best ways to showcase the flavor of fresh basil is to serve this Chicken In Basil Cream Recipe as a main course, garnished with additional chopped basil leaves and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
- You could also serve it as part of a more elaborate meal, such as a dinner party or special occasion, where you can pair it with other dishes that complement its rich and creamy flavors.
- For example, you might serve the Chicken In Basil Cream Recipe alongside a simple green salad, some crusty bread, or roasted vegetables to provide a contrasting texture and flavor.
- Alternatively, you could also serve this dish as part of a more casual meal, such as a weeknight dinner with family or friends.
- In this case, you might pair the Chicken In Basil Cream Recipe with some simple sides, such as steamed rice or roasted potatoes, to create a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Use as much or as little basil as desired, according to personal taste
- Serving suggestions for Chicken in Basil Cream are numerous and versatile, allowing individuals to tailor their meal experience to suit various tastes and preferences.
- For a classic presentation, serve the chicken breasts with a generous helping of the basil cream sauce spooned over the top, garnished with additional fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired.
- An elegant option is to serve the chicken in a bed of steamed asparagus or zucchini, drizzled with the basil cream sauce and finished with a sprinkle of microgreens for added color and nutrition.
- For a heartier serving suggestion, consider pairing the chicken with roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and served alongside a side of garlic mashed potatoes or quinoa.
- Basil cream sauce is also a wonderful accompaniment to pasta dishes, so serve the chicken with cooked fettuccine or linguine tossed in the basil cream sauce and topped with toasted pine nuts for added crunch.
- For a vegetarian twist on this recipe, substitute the chicken with roasted eggplant or portobello mushrooms, served with a side of sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes to round out the meal.
- No matter how you choose to serve Chicken in Basil Cream, be sure to garnish with fresh basil leaves and parmesan cheese for added flavor and visual appeal.
Basil Cream Sauce Variations
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an spicy kick
- Substitute half the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version
- Add a handful of chopped fresh parsley or dill for added depth of flavor
- Use lemon juice instead of vinegar for a brighter, more citrusy taste
Additional Tips
- Let the basil cream sauce sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Don’t overcook the chicken breasts, as they will continue to cook slightly after removing from heat.
- Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh basil and real parmesan cheese, for the best flavor results.
Pair the chicken with steamed vegetables and crusty bread for a well rounded meal
Serving Suggestions for your delicious Chicken In Basil Cream Recipe can elevate a simple dish into a truly satisfying and enjoyable meal.
To create a well-rounded meal, pair your chicken with some steamed vegetables that complement the flavors of the basil cream sauce. Here are some options:
- Broccoli – A classic combination that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce and tender chicken.
- Asparagus – The natural sweetness of asparagus balances out the savory flavors of the dish.
- Cauliflower – Steamed cauliflower florets soak up the flavorful cream sauce nicely.
A crusty bread is also a great accompaniment to mop up the remaining basil cream sauce. Try pairing it with:
- Garlic Bread – A classic combination that will have you coming back for more.
- Focaccia Bread – The soft and pillowy texture of focaccia pairs nicely with the rich sauce.
For a complete meal, consider adding some additional sides or garnishes to enhance the flavors:
- Lemon Wedges – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the dish and balance out the flavors.
- Parsley Garnish – Add a sprinkle of parsley on top for added color and freshness.
These serving suggestions will not only complement your Chicken In Basil Cream Recipe but also create a memorable dining experience for you and your guests to enjoy!
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