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 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken for dinner. It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. The combination of juicy chicken, rich cream, and aromatic basil creates a flavor explosion that I can’t resist. Every bite is comforting and delightful, making it perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. I’m always thrilled to see my family’s faces light up when they take the first bite. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in our household!

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:48:36.861Z

When I first experimented with Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, I knew I wanted to combine classic Italian flavors with a rich and creamy sauce. I started by sautéing garlic and onions, which filled the kitchen with an incredible aroma. The key is to simmer the tomatoes until they burst, releasing all their natural sweetness, while the heavy cream adds a luxurious texture that takes the dish to another level.

Over the years, I’ve refined this recipe by using fresh basil from my garden. Not only does it enhance the flavor, but cooking it lightly in the sauce releases its oils, making every bite fragrant and delicious. I recommend serving this dish with a side of garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Luscious creaminess that pairs perfectly with tangy tomatoes
Fresh basil elevates the flavor to new heights
A satisfying comfort meal that’s ready in just 40 minutes

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken plays a critical role in achieving its delicious outcome. The heavy cream not only adds a rich texture but also balances the acidity of the cherry tomatoes, making the dish feel luxurious. When selecting tomatoes, opt for vibrant, firm cherry varieties; they add a natural sweetness and delightful burst of flavor that enhances the overall meal. You can also substitute them with grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes in a pinch, though fresh is best for taste.

Fresh basil is another star ingredient in this recipe. Its peppery, aromatic flavor complements the creamy sauce beautifully. If you're unable to find fresh basil, consider using 1 teaspoon of dried basil as a substitute, although the fresh variety offers a much brighter flavor. Always remember that herbs can lose their potency when cooked, so add them towards the end of cooking to maximize their impact.

Cooking Technique Insights

Achieving perfectly cooked chicken breasts hinges on technique. Using medium-high heat ensures that you get a nice golden brown crust in about 6-7 minutes per side. To ensure uniform cooking, it’s helpful to let the chicken rest at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes before cooking; this can help prevent the chicken from being tough. Look for a golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F for well-cooked chicken. If your chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to prevent it from burning before it cooks through.

When making the sauce, it's crucial to let the tomatoes soften and release their juices; this usually takes about 5 minutes of simmering. This step infuses the cream with the inherent flavor of the tomatoes, leading to a cohesive and aromatic sauce. Keep an eye on the heat; too high and your sauce may evaporate too quickly, while too low might not allow it to thicken properly. If the sauce appears too thin, you can simmer it a bit longer or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken it up.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prep the Chicken

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

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add diced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and let them simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their juices.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the heavy cream and reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the chopped basil and red pepper flakes, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken.

Finish the Dish

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over each breast. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil if desired.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of pasta or rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce while it simmers. You can also substitute the cherry tomatoes with diced canned tomatoes if fresh ones are unavailable.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights. Prepare the entire dish, except for the final step of reheating, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, taking care not to simmer for too long to maintain the creaminess.

This dish is not suitable for freezing due to its cream-based sauce, which can separate when thawed. However, you can certainly freeze the chicken alone before adding the sauce. When storing, portion it out for easier reheating, ensuring it is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, serve it over a bed of pasta, rice, or even quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan enhances the savory qualities, providing an extra touch of flavor. Alternatively, you can serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balance of flavors and textures.

Feel free to customize the recipe by incorporating additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini, which can be added when cooking the sauce. Not only will they add nutritional value, but they also contribute delightful colors and flavors to the dish. For a twist, consider substituting the chicken with shrimp or using tofu for a plant-based version; just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe, adding extra juiciness.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

→ What can I serve with this chicken dish?

This dish is fantastic with garlic bread, pasta, or a fresh green salad.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.