Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts Recipe

If you are searching for the perfect weeknight dinner that feels both indulgent and fresh, the Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts simmered in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce infused with fragrant basil and a hint of spice. The balance of tangy tomatoes and rich cream delivers a comforting yet bright flavor that will quickly make this recipe a beloved staple at your dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to making this dish truly shine lies in using simple, quality ingredients that each bring something special to the party. From the garlic’s aromatic warmth to the fresh basil’s bright herbaceous notes, every component works together to create a deeply satisfying meal.

• Canola oil: A neutral oil perfect for browning chicken without overpowering flavors.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Sliced thin for even cooking and a tender bite.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the ingredients.
• Minced garlic: Adds a fragrant, savory base to the sauce.
• Dried basil: Infuses herbal depth that complements the fresh basil later.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, but they add a perfect touch of heat and complexity.
• Canned diced tomatoes with Italian herbs: A flavorful foundation for the sauce packed with spices.
• Tomato pasta sauce: Provides richness and smooth tomato flavor to the creamy base.
• Whipping cream: Creates that luxe, silky sauce texture that clings beautifully to the chicken.
• Corn starch: Helps thicken the sauce just right without heaviness.
• Freshly chopped basil: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes; basil pesto can be an easy substitute.
• Freshly grated Parmesan: Adds umami and a savory finish as a garnish.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Chicken

Start by halving the chicken breasts lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. This simple trick helps them cook evenly and stay juicy without drying out. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then season the chicken with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken on each side for about 2 to 4 minutes until a golden crust forms—this step locks in flavor and texture, setting the stage for your sauce to shine.

Step 2: Create the Flavorful Sauce Base

With the chicken removed from the pan, add minced garlic along with salt, dried basil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little kick. Cook everything together for just one minute to release those wonderful aromas, careful not to let the garlic burn. Then, stir in the canned diced tomatoes and tomato pasta sauce, scraping up those tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan—the foundation of flavor in this dish.

Step 3: Add Cream and Thicken the Sauce

Whisk together the whipping cream and corn starch in a small bowl until smooth, then pour it into the skillet with the tomatoes. This mixture thickens the sauce beautifully and gives it a velvety texture that clings perfectly to the chicken. Stir everything to combine, making sure the sauce is smooth and starting to thicken gently.

Step 4: Simmer with the Chicken

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy tomato sauce. Bring the pan to a low simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover. Let the chicken cook gently in the sauce until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, which usually takes just a few minutes. By the end, the sauce will have thickened slightly and soaked into the chicken, marrying all the flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the dish further, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving. The salty, nutty notes in the Parmesan create an irresistible finish that ties all the flavors together. A few extra basil leaves add vibrant color and a fresh punch to every bite.

Side Dishes

This chicken recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad add balance and freshness, making the meal both nourishing and hearty.

Creative Ways to Present

For a gorgeous presentation, serve the chicken on a bed of creamy polenta or buttered pasta. You could also spoon the sauce generously over grilled bread to create a rustic, satisfying plate. Adding a drizzle of basil pesto on top adds a beautiful contrast in both color and flavor that your guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to thicken as it cools, so give it a gentle stir before reheating to bring back its creamy consistency.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, making it perfect for meal planning. Let the chicken cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and prevent the chicken from drying out. You can also warm it in the microwave, but use short bursts of heat and stir in between to avoid curdling the cream.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs have more fat and flavor, which can add richness to the dish, but adjust cooking times as thighs often take a bit longer to cook through.

What can I substitute for whipping cream?

You can use whole milk or half-and-half if you want a lighter version, though the sauce will be less thick and creamy. For dairy-free options, coconut milk can work but will lend a different flavor.

Is fresh basil necessary or can I use dried basil?

Fresh basil really brightens this recipe and adds freshness that dried basil can’t fully replicate. However, dried basil works in a pinch—just add it earlier in the cooking process so its flavor can develop.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Make sure to use a gluten-free tomato sauce and verify that the corn starch you use is gluten-free, which most are. This dish is naturally gluten-free aside from those considerations.

How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?

The pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds just a subtle heat that enhances flavor without overwhelming the dish. You can omit them entirely if you prefer no spice, or add more if you like a kick.

Final Thoughts

Making the Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts Recipe is like wrapping yourself in pure comfort food with a fresh, vibrant twist. It’s simple enough for a busy night but special enough to serve any time you want to impress without stress. I promise this recipe will become one of those go-to meals you reach for again and again—give it a try and watch everyone at the table ask for seconds!

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