Rich, comforting, and full of fresh flavor, this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken brings together tender seared chicken breasts with a luscious tomato-cream sauce infused with garlic, basil, and a touch of Parmesan. The sauce clings to the chicken beautifully, making it perfect to serve over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but comes together quickly—and tastes even better the next day. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a family weeknight staple, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Creamy, tangy, and herbaceous all in one bite.
Simple ingredients with restaurant-quality results.
Ready in 35 minutes with one pan to clean.
Pairs beautifully with pasta, crusty bread, or salad.
Comforting and elegant—great for guests or date night.
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Great recipes begin with great prep—start by gathering these:
Olive oil: A must-have for sautéing, it adds richness and depth.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show, tender and juicy.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
Onion: Diced for a sweet, aromatic base that complements the sauce.
Garlic: Minced for that irresistible aroma and a punch of flavor.
Diced tomatoes: Canned and undrained, they provide a juicy, tangy foundation.
Dried basil and oregano: These herbs bring an Italian flair, adding warmth and earthiness.
Heavy cream: The secret to that luscious, creamy sauce that coats the chicken.
Fresh basil leaves: Chopped for a burst of freshness and vibrant color.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that elevates the dish.
Feel free to get creative!
For a lighter version, consider substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.
You can also toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Exact measurements are available at the bottom of the article for your convenience.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Cooking should be a joyful experience, and this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken recipe makes it easy to enjoy every moment.
Let’s break it down step by step, ensuring you have all the tips you need for a delicious outcome.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
While the oil warms, season 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken to the skillet.
Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
This step is crucial; you want that beautiful sear for flavor!
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion.
Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent.
Then, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!
Step 3: Create the Tomato Sauce
Now, stir in a can of diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces, undrained), along with 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
This is where the flavors start to meld together, creating a rich base for your sauce.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Lower the heat and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Add in 1 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
This is the moment when your dish transforms into something truly special!
Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top.
Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 5 minutes.
This step ensures the chicken absorbs all those delicious flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, serve your Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Don’t forget to drizzle some extra sauce on top!
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Tips for Success
Always season your chicken well; it makes a world of difference in flavor.
Don’t rush the sautéing process; let the onions and garlic develop their sweetness.
Use fresh basil for the best flavor; it brightens up the dish beautifully.
For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer after adding the cream.
Pair with a side salad for a complete meal that feels gourmet!
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken and sauce. A non-stick pan works well too.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping up those delicious bits from the skillet.
Meat thermometer: Handy for ensuring your chicken is cooked to perfection.
Cutting board: A must for chopping your ingredients safely.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist that elevates the flavor profile.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to create a unique flavor combination.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb meal.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in some mozzarella cheese for an extra cheesy version that’s sure to please!
Serving Suggestions
Pasta: Serve over al dente spaghetti or fettuccine for a classic Italian touch.
Crusty Bread: Pair with a warm baguette or garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
Wine: Enjoy with a glass of Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir for a delightful pairing.
FAQs about Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden-brown sear.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative works well. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly less rich.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just combine them before serving, and heat through for a quick meal.
What sides pair well with Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?
This dish is versatile! It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. Crusty bread is also a great choice to soak up that delicious sauce.
Final Thoughts
Cooking should be a joyful experience, and this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken embodies that spirit.
With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it transforms an ordinary weeknight into something special.
Every bite is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life—good food, shared moments, and the satisfaction of creating something delicious.
Whether you’re impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to bring smiles to the table.
So, gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and let the magic of cooking fill your kitchen with warmth and love!
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), dried basil, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes.
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Allow to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
Serve the creamy tomato basil chicken over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative.
Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
