Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Meals

I love making Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken for dinner because it brings together bright flavors and comforting creaminess in every bite. The sweet and tangy tomatoes pair beautifully with fresh basil, while the chicken remains tender and juicy. It’s a simple yet luxurious dish that I can whip up on a weeknight or serve to guests. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, allowing me to spend more time with loved ones at the table rather than in the kitchen.

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:41:40.058Z

When I first crafted this recipe, I aimed to create a dish that was both quick and satisfying. The combination of sautéed garlic, sun-ripened tomatoes, and fresh basil was born from my love for Mediterranean cuisine. I discovered that finishing the dish with cream elevates the flavors and creates a sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.

I often serve this over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. The key is to let the sauce simmer just enough to allow the flavors to meld, giving that restaurant-quality taste right at home. Trust me, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep handy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich tomato flavor complemented by fragrant basil
Creamy texture that blends seamlessly with chicken
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
A versatile dish that pairs well with pasta or rice

Perfecting the Chicken

To achieve juicy chicken breasts, it's essential to sear them properly. Start by letting the chicken come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking. When seasoning, don't be afraid to be generous with salt and pepper; they enhance the overall flavor. As you sear the chicken, look for a golden-brown color indicating a flavorful crust has formed—this usually takes about 6-7 minutes per side over medium-high heat.

Using a meat thermometer can take the guesswork out of cooking chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. If the chicken begins to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to prevent burning while allowing the insides to cook through. For a more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

Crafting the Creamy Sauce

The sauce is the heart of this dish, and its erratic balance of acidity and creaminess is what makes it so enticing. Start by sautéing the minced garlic in the skillet until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn, as this can impart a bitter taste. Adding the crushed tomatoes will release their sweetness during the simmer, so don’t rush this step; let them cook for at least 5 minutes to concentrate the flavors before adding the heavy cream.

Incorporating the heavy cream should transform your sauce into a luxuriously smooth consistency. Stir in the chopped basil after removing it from heat to preserve its vibrant color and flavor. For those looking for a lighter version, you could substitute half of the cream with low-fat Greek yogurt, ensuring it's added off the heat to prevent curdling.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Then, add the heavy cream, basil, and oregano, stirring until the sauce is well combined.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it in the creamy tomato sauce. Allow it to cook together for another 3-4 minutes to heat through. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and more fresh basil if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian herbs for an hour before cooking. You can also add spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for additional texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken pairs exceptionally well with a variety of sides. For a heartier meal, serve it over al dente pasta or a fluffy bed of rice. If you prefer something lighter, steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad can provide a refreshing contrast. Consider spooning some extra sauce over the sides to tie the meal together with its rich flavors.

For an added touch of elegance, garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also intensifies the dish's flavor. If serving to guests, consider creating a wholesome garlic bread on the side, perfect for savoring every drop of that delicious creamy sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or additional cream if the sauce has thickened too much. This approach keeps the chicken moist while ensuring the sauce remains creamy without becoming oily.

For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to two months. Make sure to cool the chicken and sauce completely before packing them into a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully and add even more flavor to the dish.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative for a lighter version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid separating the sauce.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.