Indulge your taste buds with a delightful Italian classic: Chicken with Basil Sauce! This mouthwatering dish is not only a feast for the senses but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Picture tender, juicy chicken breasts drizzled with a vibrant, aromatic basil sauce that bursts with fresh flavor. In just 40 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a gourmet meal that will impress family and friends alike. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients by thoroughly washing the fresh basil leaves and patting them dry. Peel and mince the garlic cloves finely.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides, ensuring even coverage.
- In a food processor or blender, combine fresh basil leaves, minced garlic, and olive oil. Blend until a smooth, vibrant green sauce is formed.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet and cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove from the skillet and let it rest for 3-4 minutes to retain moisture.
- Drizzle the fresh basil sauce over the chicken breasts just before serving, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
- Optionally, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.
Tips
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use the freshest basil leaves you can find for a more vibrant flavor. If possible, pick them right before cooking for maximum freshness.
- Perfectly Seasoned Chicken: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper when seasoning your chicken. This step is crucial for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Monitor Cooking Temperature: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures juiciness and safety.
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain moisture, resulting in a more succulent dish.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to experiment with the basil sauce by adding ingredients like pine nuts or Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve your Chicken with Basil Sauce alongside a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of pasta to create a well-rounded meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 488kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 180mg
