There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that combines creamy, tangy tomatoes with fragrant basil and tender chicken. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, making your neighbors wonder if you’re hosting a Michelin-star dinner party. Trust me, this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a meal so good it might just make you question whether you should ever order takeout again.
Picture this: It’s a rainy Tuesday evening, and you’re standing in your kitchen, feeling like a culinary rockstar as you whip up this luscious dish. The vibrant colors of fresh basil and sun-kissed tomatoes create an irresistible allure that promises to elevate any weeknight dinner. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or an impromptu romantic dinner for two, this dish has got you covered!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort
- Its vibrant colors and aromas will impress anyone at your table
- Enjoy it over pasta or rice for an extra treat!
- Plus, this recipe is versatile enough to customize based on what ingredients you have on hand
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor that packs a punch in every bite.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes for added depth of flavor; they bring a delightful smokiness to the sauce.
Heavy Cream: Use heavy cream for that luxurious, velvety texture that makes everything taste gourmet.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Don’t skimp on the fresh basil; its aromatic quality elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
For the Sauce:
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps sauté those fragrant garlic cloves beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by seasoning the boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the chicken in the skillet and cook until golden brown on one side (about 5-7 minutes). Flip it over and cook until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or about 75°C).
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not burnt—nobody likes burnt garlic!
Step 3: Add Tomatoes
Pour in your canned diced tomatoes (don’t forget all that juicy goodness!) along with their juices. Stir everything together while scraping up those tasty bits stuck to the pan. Let it simmer for about five minutes.
Step 4: Create Your Creamy Sauce
Now comes the best part! Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in heavy cream, allowing it to meld beautifully with all those flavorful ingredients. Let it simmer gently while stirring occasionally until your sauce thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return those beautiful chicken breasts back into the skillet soaking them up in all that creamy tomato goodness. Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the top for a burst of color and flavor.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer to plates or serve directly from the skillet if you’re feeling fancy! Drizzle any remaining sauce over each portion ensuring everyone gets a taste of that creamy tomato magic.
Now enjoy your meal knowing you’ve created something special without too much fuss! This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken will surely become a beloved staple in your home cooking repertoire!
You Must Know
- This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to create that golden crust, then cook the pasta while you prepare the sauce. This sequence ensures everything comes together smoothly, saving you time and preventing any kitchen chaos. Your taste buds will thank you!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or even tofu if you’re feeling adventurous. Add in extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for color and nutrition, or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick to your creamy tomato basil chicken.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep that creamy consistency intact. Nobody wants a clumpy mess!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh basil for a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t compete with
- Make sure not to overcook your chicken; juicy is key!
- Lastly, don’t rush the sauce—allow it to simmer and deepen those delicious flavors
Sometimes I whip up this creamy dish when I need a quick dinner fix, and my family always devours it! Their smiles are worth every minute spent in the kitchen—just don’t forget the garlic bread!
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?
To make Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, you will need boneless chicken breasts, fresh basil, garlic, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Additional ingredients include olive oil, salt, and pepper. These ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful dish that is easy to prepare. Make sure to use fresh basil for the best flavor. You can also customize the recipe by adding vegetables or spices according to your preference.
How long does it take to prepare Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?
Preparation time for Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is approximately 10 minutes, while cooking takes about 20 to 25 minutes. This means you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour. It’s a great option for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. The combination of creamy sauce and tender chicken makes it a favorite among families.
Can I make Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken ahead of time. Cook the dish as directed and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This makes it perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests.
What can I serve with Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken?
Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it over pasta or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Alternatively, steamed vegetables or a fresh salad complement this dish well. Garlic bread is another great option if you want something extra to enjoy with the creamy sauce. These sides enhance your dining experience and round out the meal beautifully.
Conclusion for Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken:
In summary, Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and a rich tomato-basil sauce. With simple ingredients and quick preparation time, it’s perfect for any night of the week. You can easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Whether served over pasta or alongside fresh vegetables, this meal is sure to impress your family and friends alike. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this easy-to-make recipe!
Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a comforting dish that blends tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy tomato sauce infused with fresh basil. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this easy-to-make recipe takes less than an hour to prepare. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas promise a delightful dining experience that will leave you questioning takeout.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add diced tomatoes with juices; stir and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low; stir in heavy cream, allowing sauce to thicken slightly while stirring occasionally.
- Return chicken to the skillet; coat in the creamy sauce. Garnish with chopped basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 426
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
