Hello, welcome to my beautiful world! My name is Prisca Bush. I am a food lover; I enjoy writing about my favorite recipes.
Introduction
If there’s one dish that never fails to bring comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance to the dinner table, it’s this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe. I remember the first time I made it—I was juggling a busy week, trying to make something quick but impressive for dinner. I wanted something that would feel like a restaurant-quality dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of juicy chicken, a rich and creamy tomato sauce, and the fresh aroma of basil exceeded all my expectations. The flavors were vibrant, comforting, and just the right balance of creamy and tangy. Since then, this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe has become a go-to for weeknight dinners, casual date nights, or even when I want to impress guests with minimal effort.
What I love most about this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. Pair it with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables, and you have a meal that satisfies everyone at the table. Plus, it’s simple enough for beginners, yet sophisticated enough to feel special.
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Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this flavorful Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe. Most ingredients are pantry staples, with fresh basil elevating the flavors.
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For the Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional for Serving:
- Cooked pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- Rice or cauliflower rice
- Crusty bread for dipping
Pro Tip: Using fresh basil makes a noticeable difference in flavor. If you only have dried, use about 1 teaspoon, but add fresh basil at the end if possible.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Optional: pasta pot if serving over noodles
How to Prepare Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe
Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving the perfect creamy, flavorful Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe.
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Let it rest for a few minutes while you prepare the sauce ingredients.
Tip: Drying the chicken helps achieve a nice golden sear and locks in juices.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage; it will finish cooking in the sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter (or add a bit more olive oil if needed).
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced or crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
Pro Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before adding the chicken back to the pan.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy tomato sauce.
- Cover and simmer on low for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
- Stir in chopped fresh basil just before serving.
Step 5: Serve Your Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
- Serve the chicken with your choice of pasta, rice, or vegetables.
- Spoon extra sauce over the top for maximum flavor.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.
This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, though leftovers can be reheated gently over low heat.
Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe
- Don’t skip searing: Searing the chicken adds flavor and texture to the dish.
- Use fresh basil: Adds a vibrant, aromatic flavor that dried basil can’t replicate.
- Adjust creaminess: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut milk.
- Add a splash of wine: A tablespoon of white wine during the sauce step adds depth.
- Simmer gently: Avoid boiling once cream is added to prevent curdling.
- Cut chicken thinly for pasta: Slice chicken before adding it back if you’re serving over pasta for easier mixing.
Variations
This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe is flexible and can be adapted based on preferences:
1. Spicy Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
2. Garlic Lovers Version
Increase garlic to 5 cloves for a bolder flavor.
3. Low-Carb Version
Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
4. Cheesy Delight
Stir in mozzarella or provolone for a melty, cheesy variation.
5. Sun-Dried Tomato Addition
Add ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a tangy twist.
6. Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts
Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and absorb sauce beautifully. Adjust cooking time slightly.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To Store:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To Reheat:
- Warm gently in a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen sauce if needed.
To Freeze:
- Freeze cooked chicken and sauce separately from pasta for up to 2 months. Reheat gently, then serve with freshly cooked pasta.
FAQs
1. Can I make this in the oven?
Yes! Sear the chicken, then transfer to a baking dish. Pour sauce over and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
2. Can I use canned tomato sauce instead of diced tomatoes?
Absolutely! Use 1 cup of tomato sauce and adjust cream for desired consistency.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use dairy-free Parmesan.
4. Can I use chicken tenders instead of breasts?
Yes, reduce cooking time to avoid overcooking since tenders cook faster.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad all pair beautifully with this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe.
6. How long does the sauce last?
The creamy tomato basil sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)
(Serves 4)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
Nutrition varies depending on exact ingredients and serving size.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe is one of those magical dishes that tastes like it took hours to prepare but comes together in under an hour. The combination of tender chicken, rich tomato cream sauce, and aromatic basil hits all the right notes—comforting, flavorful, and satisfying.
The Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe is versatile enough to serve over pasta, rice, or vegetables, and the leftovers are just as delicious as the first serving. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a special date night, or simply want a delicious, comforting dinner, this recipe delivers every time.
With a few simple ingredients and a little love, you can create a dish that feels elegant, indulgent, and hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your skillet, fresh basil, and a few pantry staples—this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe is ready to become a new family favorite.