Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Hearty House Dishes

When I first tried making Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, I was amazed at how easy and delicious it turned out. The combination of juicy chicken and a rich, creamy tomato sauce brought together with fresh basil is simply irresistible. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or to impress guests. The secret ingredient? A splash of balsamic vinegar that elevates the taste and complements the flavors beautifully. I'm excited to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:25:35.804Z

Making Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken became a cherished tradition in my kitchen. The vibrant colors of fresh tomatoes and basil made every dish visually appealing, but it was the taste that truly won me over. I recall the first time I added a hint of garlic to the sauce, and it added a beautiful depth of flavor I hadn’t anticipated.

I also experimented with different types of cheese—find what works for you! A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan over the top right before serving adds an extra layer of creaminess that makes this dish irresistible. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that clings to the chicken perfectly
Fresh basil adds an aromatic touch that elevates the dish
Quick and easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough to serve guests

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor in this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken. Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes; their sweetness will shine through when cooked and beautifully balance the richness of the cream. Look for vibrant, fragrant basil that is deep green. It not only elevates the visual appeal but also infuses the dish with that classic Italian aroma that will make your taste buds sing.

Additionally, high-quality Parmesan cheese is key. Grated or shredded freshly from a block, it will melt more seamlessly into the sauce compared to pre-grated options, which may contain anti-caking agents. This will ensure a smooth, luxurious texture in your creamy sauce, enhancing the overall impact of the dish.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Chicken

Searing the chicken properly is essential to lock in moisture and create a golden-brown crust. The skillet should be hot enough that when you place the chicken in, it sizzles immediately. If you find the chicken is sticking, give it a little more time before trying to flip it; it should naturally release when it’s properly seared. This technique not only enhances flavor but also helps create a beautiful caramelization that adds depth to the dish.

While simmering the chicken in the sauce, avoid overcooking. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's safely cooked through while still remaining juicy. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy; this method will help avoid dry chicken, which can detract from the overall experience of this dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil

These ingredients will come together to create a creamy, flavorful chicken dish that you'll love!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken:

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and sear them in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the balsamic vinegar.

Add Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat and add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine. Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper, to taste.

Combine and Simmer

Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir in the fresh basil just before serving.

Serve this dish over pasta or with crusty bread for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For extra freshness, try garnishing with a basil leaf or additional Parmesan before serving. You can also substitute the cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re looking to prepare this meal in advance, you can cook the chicken and sauce separately. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply heat the sauce and add the cooked chicken back in to warm through. This approach ensures that the chicken remains juicy and prevents it from overcooking during reheating.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing the sauce without the chicken. Pour it into a freezer-safe container and it will last up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating, and reintroduce freshly cooked chicken to keep the dish from becoming rubbery.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over al dente pasta or creamy risotto to soak up the delicious sauce. Alternatively, a simple side salad with a citrus vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

For a more casual approach, serve the chicken as a filling in warm tortillas topped with some additional fresh basil. This variation is fantastic for a quick lunch or dinner that feels gourmet yet approachable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use thighs or any cut of chicken you prefer, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with vegetables like zucchini or eggplant.

→ Can the creamy sauce be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance, just reheat gently before adding the chicken.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

It pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.