Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While fresh basil is highly recommended for its vibrant flavor and aroma, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil called for in the recipe. However, the overall flavor profile will be less intense and less aromatic. For truly authentic basil recipes, fresh is always best.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To make this creamy chicken dish lighter, you can substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of butter used for searing the chicken, opt for leaner chicken breasts instead of thighs, or increase the vegetable content.

What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian. Replace the chicken with pan-seared halloumi, cannellini beans, or a hearty blend of sautu00e9ed mushrooms. The creamy sun-dried tomato and basil sauce pairs wonderfully with many plant-based proteins.

basil recipes: 10 Vibrant Ways to Transform Your Kitchen Tonight

Name: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 tsp salt, divided; 1/2 tsp black pepper, divided; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 2 tbsp olive oil, divided; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small shallot, finely chopped (or 1/4 small onion); 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed), drained and chopped; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, to taste); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish)

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 tsp salt, divided
1/2 tsp black pepper, divided
1/2 tsp garlic powder
2 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small shallot, finely chopped (or 1/4 small onion)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed), drained and chopped
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Pat chicken dry and season with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper, and garlic powder. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet. Add minced garlic and chopped shallot; sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with remaining 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper to taste.
Step 5: Return seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, spooning sauce over chicken. Just before serving, stir in the fresh basil.
Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired. Excellent with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Notes

For best flavor, use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference. Fresh basil is key for this recipe's vibrant taste.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1.5 cups)
Calories: 520 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 165mg

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition

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