There’s something incredibly satisfying about a one-pot meal that not only saves time but whisks you away with its rich and aromatic flavors. As the sun begins to set, I often find myself craving a warming dish that embodies both comfort and nourishment. Enter my Creamy Skillet Chicken with Garlic & Basil – a delightful blend where succulent chicken thighs bathe in a luscious garlic and basil sauce.
This recipe is my go-to for busy weeknights; it’s ready in just 30 minutes and fits seamlessly into any dietary preference with its Whole30, Keto, and Dairy-Free options. Imagine the vibrant aroma of fresh basil merging with a hint of zesty lemon, wrapping around tender chicken that practically melts away.
No more lifeless fast food for me! This glorious skillet meal brings joy to the table, providing not just flavor but also an elegant touch that leaves everyone feeling satisfied. Let’s dive into this creamy delight and make your weeknight dinners something to look forward to.
Why is Creamy Skillet Chicken with Garlic & Basil a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Best: You can whip up this dish in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of garlic, basil, and a hint of lemon creates a symphony of tastes you’ll crave.
Diet-Friendly: Fits seamlessly into Whole30, Keto, and Dairy-Free lifestyles without sacrificing richness.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimize cleanup while savoring a hearty meal with minimal fuss.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for family or guests, this dish guarantees a satisfied table.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with veggies or different herbs for a unique twist; check out my variation ideas for inspiration!
Creamy Skillet Chicken Ingredients
For the Sauce
• Ghee (2 tbsp) – Cooking fat that adds richness; substitute with coconut oil for AIP.
• Garlic (6 cloves, minced) – Brings aromatic warmth and enhances the creamy flavor profile.
• Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Crushed Red Pepper (¼ tsp, or to taste) – Provides a hint of heat; omit for AIP diets.
• Coconut Milk (1 cup) – Delivers the creamy consistency essential for this skillet chicken; heavy cream can be used for Keto.
• Bone Broth (½ cup) – Acts as the liquid base for the sauce; substitute with chicken broth if preferred.
• Lemon Juice (from 1 lemon) – Brightens the dish and balances the flavors.
• Fresh Basil Leaves (1 cup, packed) – Adds a fresh herbal flavor, vital for this creamy skillet chicken.
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs (1½ lb, boneless, skinless) – The main protein that provides tenderness; you can substitute with chicken breasts if preferred.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; feel free to omit pepper for AIP diets.
How to Make Creamy Skillet Chicken with Garlic & Basil
- Heat the Ghee: Begin by heating 1 tbsp of ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to melt and shimmer, ensuring the skillet is hot enough for a beautiful sear.
- Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Sear for about 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining ghee along with the diced onion, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper. Cook for approximately 5 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk, bone broth, and lemon juice, stirring well. Bring this mixture to a boil while scrapping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to deglaze, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 4-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Incorporate the Basil: Stir in the fresh basil leaves until they wilt beautifully. Then, return the seared chicken to the skillet and let it simmer for an additional minute so that everything heats through and melds together.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your creamy skillet chicken immediately with your choice of sides, be it steamed veggies, cauliflower rice, or zucchini noodles for a delightful low-carb option.
Optional: Garnish with extra basil leaves for a touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Skillet Chicken with Garlic & Basil are perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence! You can prepare the sauce (minus the basil) up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you could season and sear the chicken thighs ahead of time, storing them separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet while adding the basil; then return the chicken to the pan to warm through for about a minute. This prep method ensures that your dish retains its creamy texture and rich flavor, allowing you to enjoy a delightful meal without fuss.
What to Serve with Creamy Skillet Chicken with Garlic & Basil?
Creating a full meal around this creamy, aromatic dish heightens your dining experience and satisfies your cravings.
- Steamed Broccoli: Freshly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant crunch and balances the creamy sauce nicely, making every bite well-rounded.
- Garlic Cauliflower Rice: This light and flavorful side mimics traditional rice but complements the creamy skillet chicken perfectly, adding a nutritious touch.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a fun and low-carb twist, serve your chicken atop zoodles. Their subtle flavor lets the rich sauce shine through.
- Cauliflower Mash: Soft and fluffy, this creamy mash pairs beautifully with the garlic and basil flavors, creating an indulgent yet healthy option.
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette provides freshness to counterbalance the rich dish, inviting those first delightful bites.
- Dry White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the dish’s flavors, offering a crisp finish that lingers in the mouth.
- Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate after the rich chicken, bringing a sweet and tangy end to the meal.
- Roasted Asparagus: The earthy depth of roasted asparagus pairs exceptionally well, elevating your creamy dish into a gourmet experience.
Creamy Skillet Chicken Variations
Feel free to switch things up and customize this recipe to cater to your family’s tastebuds and dietary needs!
- Herb Twist: Swap fresh basil for oregano or thyme to create a different flavor profile that brings a whole new character to the dish.
- Veggie Boost: Add spinach or mushrooms into the sauce for an extra dose of nutrition and a satisfying texture that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper or toss in some fresh chilies for a fiery, exciting twist that your spice-loving friends will adore!
- Nutty Creaminess: Replace coconut milk with cashew cream for a richer, nutty flavor that deepens the creaminess and pairs perfectly with the garlic and basil.
- Lemon Zest: Enhance the citrus zing by adding zest from the lemon. It brightens up the dish and elevates the overall experience with bursts of freshness.
- Protein Options: Swap out chicken thighs for shrimp or tofu to create a delightful, protein-packed dish that introduces unique textures and flavors.
- Coconut-Free: If you’re avoiding coconut, utilize heavy cream or almond milk as a substitute to maintain that creamy deliciousness without the coconut flavor.
- Instant Pot Method: Prepare this dish quickly using an Instant Pot: sauté the aromatics, add all ingredients, seal, and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes for a speedy weeknight meal with tender chicken!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Skillet Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover creamy skillet chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain its creamy consistency.
Freezer: You can freeze portions of the chicken for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container or wrapped well to avoid freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of bone broth or coconut milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Serving: Serve the reheated chicken with fresh sides to make it feel like a freshly made meal, perfect for busy nights.
Expert Tips for Creamy Skillet Chicken
• Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for chicken thighs instead of breasts; they’re more forgiving and remain juicy, ensuring your creamy skillet chicken is tender.
• Hot Skillet Searing: Always heat your skillet sufficiently before adding the chicken. A hot pan creates a beautiful sear, enhancing flavor and texture.
• Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning your chicken well. A little extra salt can elevate the overall taste and is crucial for balancing the creamy sauce.
• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on your chicken during the cooking process. Once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, remove it to prevent dryness.
• Fresh Basil Focus: Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor. Dried herbs won’t provide the aromatic freshness your creamy skillet chicken deserves.
Creamy Skillet Chicken with Garlic & Basil Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Creamy Skillet Chicken?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this dish. They are more forgiving and tend to stay juicier than chicken breasts, ensuring your meal is tender and flavorful. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute chicken breasts, but be mindful to not overcook them.
How long can I store leftovers of Creamy Skillet Chicken?
Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep that creamy consistency intact.
Can I freeze Creamy Skillet Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of your creamy skillet chicken for up to 2 months. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container or wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
How do I thaw and reheat frozen chicken?
For best results, thaw the frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to reheat, warm it on low heat in a skillet. Adding a splash of bone broth or coconut milk while reheating revives the sauce’s creaminess, making it just as delightful as when freshly made.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This creamy skillet chicken is designed to fit seamlessly into several dietary patterns, including Whole30, Keto, and is dairy-free and egg-free. If you’re following an autoimmune protocol (AIP), just be sure to omit the crushed red pepper and use coconut oil instead of ghee. Always double-check ingredients for individual allergies as well!
What can I serve with Creamy Skillet Chicken?
I often enjoy pairing mine with steamed vegetables, cauliflower rice, or zucchini noodles. These options complement the low-carb aspect of the dish while providing a satisfying meal presentation. Feel free to get creative with your sides to make it a feast!
Creamy Skillet Chicken with Garlic & Basil in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating 1 tbsp of ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to melt and shimmer, ensuring the skillet is hot enough for a beautiful sear.
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Sear for about 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining ghee along with the diced onion, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper. Cook for approximately 5 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant.
- Pour in the coconut milk, bone broth, and lemon juice, stirring well. Bring this mixture to a boil while scrapping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to deglaze, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 4-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in the fresh basil leaves until they wilt beautifully. Then, return the seared chicken to the skillet and let it simmer for an additional minute so that everything heats through and melds together.
- Serve your creamy skillet chicken immediately with your choice of sides, be it steamed veggies, cauliflower rice, or zucchini noodles for a delightful low-carb option.
