If you are searching for a comforting yet elegant dish, this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together tender chicken breasts simmered in a luscious, rich tomato sauce infused with fresh basil and creamy goodness. It is perfect for easy weeknight meals but impressive enough for guests, combining bright, fresh flavors with a smooth, velvety texture that will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple ingredients: Made with common pantry staples and fresh herbs, it’s easy to pull together without complicated shopping.
Quick cooking: Ready in less than 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings when time is limited but flavor matters.
Creamy and comforting: The sauce balances tangy tomatoes with smooth creaminess, making every bite satisfying and cozy.
Flexible meal option: Works beautifully with pastas, rice, or even as a filling for wraps, providing versatile serving options.
Fresh herb highlight: The basil adds a bright, aromatic touch that elevates the entire dish into something special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Preparing this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is straightforward thanks to a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the dish’s irresistible flavor and texture.

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for tenderness and quick cooking.
Fresh basil leaves: Adds vibrant, herbal brightness and a fragrant aroma.
Diced tomatoes: Provide rich, tangy tomato flavor and beautiful color.
Heavy cream or coconut cream: Creates the silky, creamy base of the sauce.
Minced garlic: Adds a savory depth and punch of flavor to the sauce.
Olive oil: Used for sautéeing chicken and garlic, it imparts a light fruity note.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal): Offers a mild, melty topping that enriches the dish.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together perfectly.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds subtle acidity to balance the cream and tomatoes.

Variations for Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

One of the best parts about this dish is how easy it is to tweak based on your preferences or dietary needs. These variations help you keep things exciting or tailor the recipe to what you have on hand.

Spicy twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño for a kick of heat.
Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or grilled portobello mushrooms for a plant-based version.
Cheese swap: Use shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) mixed with a touch of shredded cheddar for extra richness.
Herb mix: Combine fresh thyme or oregano with basil for an herby blend that adds complexity.
Light cream version: Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream to reduce calories while keeping creaminess.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Season your chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside to rest.

Step 2: Sauté garlic and tomatoes

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the mixture to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.

Step 3: Add cream and basil

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream along with chopped fresh basil leaves and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens to a smooth consistency.

Step 4: Return chicken and melt cheese

Place the chicken breasts back into the sauce and spoon some over the tops. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) over the chicken, cover the skillet, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

Once the cheese has melted, garnish with extra basil leaves if desired and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Room temperature chicken: Allow chicken to sit out for 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Use fresh basil: Fresh herbs make a significant difference in flavor intensity and aroma.
Don’t overcook the sauce: Simmer gently to keep the cream from separating and to maintain a silky texture.
Cheese timing: Add shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) at the very end to avoid it becoming rubbery.
Adjust acidity: Use apple cider vinegar sparingly and taste as you go for balanced brightness.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), and a dash of cracked black pepper make beautiful garnishes that enhance the dish’s fresh and creamy flavors.

Side Dishes

This creamy, flavorful chicken pairs wonderfully with garlic mashed potatoes, buttered pasta, or a simple side of steamed vegetables to keep the meal balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken over a bed of creamy polenta, stuffed inside warm flatbreads, or spooned atop roasted cauliflower steaks for an elegant twist on presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy tomato basil chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen after sitting overnight.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power to prevent curdling of the creamy sauce. Add a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor; just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream and use plant-based shredded cheese alternatives that melt well.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is naturally gluten-free as long as you check the ingredients for any additives or thickeners.

What can I substitute for fresh basil if I don’t have any?

Dried basil can be used in a pinch, but add it earlier in the cooking to allow the flavors to develop. Fresh basil is best for garnish and finishing.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, the creamy tomato basil chicken freezes beautifully and reheats well, making it a convenient option for meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken combines simple ingredients into a truly satisfying meal that feels both comforting and special. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to impress friends, this recipe is sure to win hearts and empty plates. Give it a try and discover how easy it is to bring a touch of magic to your dinner table.

Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Author: Christopher
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a comforting and elegant dish featuring tender boneless chicken breasts simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with fresh basil and creamy goodness. Perfect for quick weeknight meals or to impress guests, this recipe combines bright, fresh flavors with a smooth, velvety texture that will quickly become a family favorite.

Instructions

Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside to rest.
Sauté garlic and tomatoes: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the mixture to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
Add cream and basil: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream along with the chopped fresh basil leaves and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens to a smooth consistency.
Return chicken and melt cheese: Place the chicken breasts back into the sauce and spoon some sauce over the tops. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) over the chicken, cover the skillet, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and enjoy: Once the cheese has melted, garnish with extra basil leaves if desired and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

Allow chicken to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Use fresh basil for the best flavor and aroma.
Simmer sauce gently to prevent the cream from separating and to maintain a silky texture.
Add shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) at the end of cooking to avoid it becoming rubbery.
Use apple cider vinegar sparingly and adjust to taste for balanced acidity.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet Cooking
Cuisine: American