Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Soft Recipes

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken because it combines my favorite flavors in one dish. The combination of juicy chicken, rich cream, and fresh basil creates a deliciously comforting meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. I usually serve it over pasta or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. It's incredibly satisfying and always leaves my family asking for seconds!

Created by

Aileen Prescott

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:49:36.601Z

When I first tried making Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, I was surprised at how simple yet flavorful it turned out to be. The secret is in using fresh basil and sun-dried tomatoes, which elevate the dish with vibrant flavors. I recommend sautéing the tomatoes for a few minutes to release their natural sweetness, making the sauce even more irresistible.

One tip that really makes a difference is to use heavy cream instead of regular cream. This gives the sauce a luxuriously thick texture, perfectly coating the chicken and pasta. It’s a dish I’m proud to share at dinner gatherings, and the aroma alone draws everyone to the table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and savory sauce bursting with fresh basil flavor
Creamy texture that enhances every bite
Quick to prepare yet impressive enough for guests

The Role of Fresh Basil

Fresh basil is a star ingredient in this recipe, adding a vibrant flavor that elevates the dish. The bright, peppery notes of basil contrast beautifully with the richness of the cream and tomatoes. To ensure the best taste, add the basil at the end of cooking. This preserves its fresh aroma and vibrant color, enhancing both the presentation and flavor of your dish.

If fresh basil is unavailable, you can substitute it with 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil, but be aware that the flavor will be less intense. Dried herbs should ideally be added during the sauce preparation phase, as they need time to rehydrate and release their flavor.

Tips for Cooking Chicken Perfectly

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken breasts, consider using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for doneness. Searing the chicken on medium heat not only ensures even cooking but also develops a golden-brown crust that adds depth of flavor. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to maintain optimal heat and ensure a good sear.

If you're preparing this dish for a larger crowd, you can scale the recipe by adding extra chicken breasts and adjusting the sauce components proportionally. Just ensure your skillet can accommodate all the chicken without overlapping, which helps in even cooking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld and improve overnight, making it a delightful meal for the next day. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish—just be aware that the cream may separate slightly upon thawing, but this can be fixed with a quick stir over low heat.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream from breaking. You can add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Stir occasionally until heated through, and adjust the seasoning before serving.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the drained diced tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to incorporate everything.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes. Stir in the chopped basil just before serving. Serve over pasta or rice, sprinkled with Parmesan cheese.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine when cooking the tomatoes and garlic.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this creamy chicken dish over al dente pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, which soaks up the sauce beautifully. Alternatively, fluffy white rice provides a neutral base that complements the bold flavors of the dish. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread, perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

For a complete meal, pair the Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken with a light green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing enhances the flavors of the chicken and provides a nice contrast to the rich cream.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe based on what you have on hand. For example, you can incorporate spinach or kale for added nutrition and color. Simply stir in the greens after adding the cream, allowing them to wilt slightly before serving.

If you prefer a different protein, shrimp or even turkey cutlets can be swapped in. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, cooking shrimp just until they turn opaque or turkey until it reaches 165°F (75°C). This flexibility keeps the dish exciting and allows for seasonal variations depending on available ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work great and provide even more flavor.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and add the chicken just before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It's delicious over pasta, rice, or even with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit cheese.