If you’re searching for a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet incredibly comforting, this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. It brings together tender chicken breasts enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce infused with fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and just the right hint of garlic and Dijon mustard. The result is a harmony of savory, creamy, and herbaceous notes that will have you savoring every bite. Whether you want something special for dinner or an impressive yet easy dish for guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients make this recipe shine, each playing a vital role in building layers of flavor, color, and texture. From the fresh basil to the silky cream, every element is essential to crafting the perfect balance in this dish.
- 2 large chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing tender and juicy protein when cooked correctly.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the chicken before cooking.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.
- Flour (for dredging): Creates a delicate crust on the chicken and helps thicken the sauce later on.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for a golden sear, contributing a fruity richness.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds creamy richness and aids in browning for extra flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic amps up the aromatic profile of the sauce.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Provides savory complexity and deglazes the pan beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Brings a gentle tang that balances the richness of the cream.
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream: The key to that irresistibly luscious texture in the sauce.
- 1 medium tomato (chopped): Adds vibrant color and a subtle fresh acidity.
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A touch of herbal warmth that ties the flavors together.
- 1 small handful fresh basil (chopped/torn): Bright, fragrant, and essential for that fresh, summery finish.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally to make four thinner juicy cutlets. This step ensures quicker and even cooking. Sprinkle each piece with garlic powder plus salt and pepper for a base of flavor. Then, lightly dredge the chicken in flour—this simple coating helps create a beautiful golden crust while also thickening the sauce later on.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Perfection
Heat olive oil and butter together in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot. Carefully add your chicken cutlets and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown exterior. Remove the chicken from the pan and transfer to a plate—don’t worry, they’ll finish cooking later in the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Base
Into the same skillet, add the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and chicken broth. Turn the heat back on and let the mixture bubble gently for around 30 seconds. Use your spoon to scrape up all those tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom. This step forms the backbone of the sauce, blending savory, tangy, and garlicky notes.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce
Now stir in the heavy cream, chopped tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and fresh basil. Let everything come to a gentle bubble. Then nestle the chicken back into the skillet and cook for about 5 more minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken up and the chicken to cook through while soaking in those vibrant flavors. If the sauce starts bubbling too vigorously, turn the heat down to keep it silky smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To really elevate your presentation and flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top just before serving. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can also add a luxurious touch that complements the sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up the sauce. Think fluffy mashed potatoes, silky risotto, or even buttered pasta. A crisp green salad or roasted veggies make perfect companions to balance the richness and add a bit of crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your dinner companions, serve the chicken over a bed of creamy polenta or stuffed inside a toasted ciabatta sandwich for a fun twist. You could also scoop the sauce and chicken onto crispy toasted baguette slices for a casual appetizer-style approach.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, they keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld more deeply after resting, making for even tastier meals the next day!
Freezing
This dish freezes well too. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve the sauce’s creamy texture.
Reheating
Warm leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, so the sauce stays smooth and doesn’t split. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can help refresh the sauce if it thickens up too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Absolutely! While chicken breasts work best for their tenderness, you can try boneless, skinless thighs for a more flavorful and juicy option. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can work, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich or thick. Adding a bit of cream cheese or Greek yogurt can boost creaminess as an alternative.
Is fresh basil necessary or can I use dried?
Fresh basil really lifts the dish with its bright herbaceous notes. If you only have dried, use about a teaspoon but add it earlier in the cooking process so the flavors develop.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter for olive oil and use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute to keep the sauce luscious and creamy without dairy.
How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?
Cook the sauce over gentle heat once you add the cream, and avoid boiling vigorously. Also, reheat leftovers slowly over low heat rather than high to keep the sauce smooth.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate – easy to make but packed with layers of deliciousness that impress every time. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a fantastic way to bring a bit of fresh, hearty comfort to any meal. Give it a try and watch it quickly become your go-to recipe when you want to delight your family and friends.
Print
Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring tender chicken cutlets simmered in a rich, creamy sauce with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a luxurious meal bursting with Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Flour (for dredging)
Cooking Fat:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 small handful fresh basil, chopped or torn
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner cutlets. Sprinkle the cutlets evenly with garlic powder, and season generously with salt and pepper. Lightly dredge each piece in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the floured chicken cutlets and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.
- Make the sauce base: Lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well and let the mixture bubble for about 30 seconds while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This step enhances the sauce’s flavor by incorporating those caramelized bits.
- Create the creamy tomato basil sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, chopped tomato, Italian seasoning, and fresh basil. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle bubble. Return the chicken cutlets to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Simmer for about 5 more minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid boiling aggressively. Taste and season with extra salt and pepper if necessary.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor, but dried basil can be used if fresh is unavailable, adding about 1 teaspoon instead of a small handful.
- Serve this dish over cooked pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer uncovered before adding the chicken back in.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to maintain a nice sear.
