Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a luscious tomato and basil cream sauce. This recipe brings together the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine with a creamy twist that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is packed with flavor from the creamy tomato basil sauce that’s both comforting and elegant. It’s easy to prepare in one skillet and pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Plus, the ingredients are simple, making it a go-to recipe for when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic (minced)
• Cherry tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Fresh basil (chopped)
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

directions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add cherry tomatoes (or canned tomatoes), tomato paste, and a splash of chicken broth. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until tomatoes are softened and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Add fresh chopped basil and Parmesan cheese (if using), then return the chicken to the skillet.
7. Simmer for another 5 minutes, spooning sauce over chicken, until everything is heated through and flavors meld.
8. Serve hot with your choice of side.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
• Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Add spinach or kale for a veggie boost.
• Include mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.
• Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice for different textures.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Microwaving is also fine for individual portions, but stir halfway through to maintain even heating.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned diced tomatoes work great and save prep time.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s not unless you add red pepper flakes. You can adjust the heat to your liking.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and skip the cheese.

What herbs go well with this dish besides basil?

Oregano and thyme can also complement the tomato base nicely.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and the flavors deepen after resting.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or add a small amount of grated Parmesan.

Can I freeze this?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze the chicken and sauce together. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

What sides go well with this?

Pasta, garlic bread, rice, or roasted vegetables are all great choices.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Absolutely. Thighs are flavorful and stay moist—just adjust cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, if served without pasta or with a low-carb side like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is the kind of recipe that feels indulgent yet is simple enough for any night of the week. With its velvety sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining guests, this dish delivers both comfort and elegance.

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