Welcome back to Cook n’ Share | Easy Country Cooking! Today, we are going to share a mouthwatering recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights: Creamy Smothered Chicken with Basil. This dish is a flavor-packed, one-skillet wonder that takes only 30 minutes to prepare. It’s creamy, rich, and infused with the fresh aroma of basil, making it a family favorite!
Description
This easy and delicious recipe is perfect for those nights when you want a quick and satisfying meal without the fuss. With just one skillet, you'll have less cleanup and more time to enjoy with your loved ones.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Place the thighs on a plate and cut two diagonal slices along the top. Season with salt and pepper.
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Pour the oil into a pan over medium high heat. Place the chicken in and fry until browned and cooked though. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
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In the same pan add in the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Stir and sauté until the onion and garlic are fragrant and the bell pepper begins to soften. Add in the tomato sauce and cream. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Stir until well combined. Add in the basil and gently stir.
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Add the chicken back in along with the sauce. Add in the mozzarella and allow to simmer for about 10 minutes. Flip the chicken over occasionally while simmering and spoon some sauce over the top.
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Plate, spoon sauce over the top, and garnish with parsley. Enjoy your Creamy Smothered Chicken with Basil!
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 670kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 14.5g23%
- Saturated Fat 5.1g26%
- Cholesterol 182mg61%
- Sodium 1013mg43%
- Total Carbohydrate 19g7%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 60g120%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutritional values are a within reason estimate and my vary depending on several factors.
Note
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Chicken Options: While this recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier result. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
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Fresh vs. Dried Basil: Fresh basil gives the best flavor, but if you only have dried basil, use 1 tablespoon of dried basil in place of the fresh basil leaves.
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Creamy Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a bit more chicken broth or a splash of milk.
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Cheese Variations: Parmesan cheese adds a nice depth of flavor to the sauce, but you can experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, Asiago, or Gruyere for a different twist.
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Add-Ins: Feel free to add vegetables to the dish for extra nutrition and flavor. Sliced mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes work particularly well in this recipe.
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Serving Suggestions: This creamy smothered chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad makes a complete meal.
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
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Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the chicken and the sauce separately in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and combine them when ready to serve. This can help save time on busy nights.
Enjoy this easy and flavorful Creamy Smothered Chicken with Basil, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal!
