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- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained These main ingredients are key to making a delicious dish. The chicken gives protein and heartiness. Olive oil adds flavor and helps cook the chicken. Salt and pepper enhance the taste. Onions and garlic bring aroma and depth to the dish. Finally, canned tomatoes add a juicy, tangy base. - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped - 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese - ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) The creamy sauce is where the magic happens. Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and smooth. Fresh basil leaves give a bright flavor. Dried Italian seasoning adds warmth and spice. Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce, adding a salty note. Red pepper flakes can bring a little heat if you like. This sauce is the star of the show, coating the chicken in creamy goodness. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Use salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step boosts the flavor. Next, sear the chicken to perfection. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Now, it's time to sauté the aromatics. In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Cook it for 2-3 minutes. You want the onion to soften but not brown. Then, add minced garlic. Cook for one more minute until you smell that wonderful aroma. Next, add the tomatoes. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and let them cook for about 2 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend. Now, make it creamy. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Mix well and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens! Return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken. Let everything simmer together for another 3-4 minutes. This step heats the chicken through. Finally, check the seasoning. Adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. Taste is key! To sear chicken well, use a hot skillet. Heat olive oil until it shimmers. Add the chicken breasts without crowding the pan. This helps them brown nicely. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side. The chicken should be golden and cooked through. To avoid a watery sauce, drain the canned tomatoes well. Excess liquid can make the sauce runny. Also, simmer the cream over low heat. This helps it thicken and blend with the flavors. For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs. Oregano and thyme work well with the sauce. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika. This gives a nice depth to the dish. A splash of balsamic vinegar can brighten the sauce too. Garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves. This adds color and a fresh taste. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese is also great. Serve the dish with warm garlic bread or a crisp side salad. This makes the meal feel complete and inviting. Pro Tips Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil provides a vibrant flavor that dried basil cannot match. Add it at the end of cooking to maintain its bright color and aroma. Check Chicken Temperature: Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for food safety. Drain Tomatoes Well: Draining the canned tomatoes helps prevent the sauce from becoming too watery, resulting in a creamier consistency. Customize the Heat: If you enjoy a bit of spice, feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste, or even add some chopped fresh chili. {{image_2}} You can make this dish your own by swapping ingredients. Here are some ideas: - Alternative proteins: Try shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. Both options work well with the creamy sauce. - Different types of cheese: You can use mozzarella or feta instead of Parmesan. Each cheese adds its own flavor twist. If you have specific dietary needs, this dish can adapt: - Gluten-free: The recipe is already gluten-free! Just check any added sides for gluten. - Dairy-free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace cheese for flavor. This creamy tomato basil chicken pairs well with many sides: - Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up the sauce. - Side salad: A fresh salad with greens and a light dressing adds balance. - Pasta or rice: Serve over pasta or rice to make it more filling. Feel free to mix and match these ideas. Enjoy creating your own version! To keep your creamy tomato basil chicken fresh, follow these steps: - Cool Down: Let the dish cool to room temperature. - Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last up to 3 days. - Freezing: You can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Use a freezer-safe container. Leave some space for expansion. Make sure to label the container with the date. This helps you track freshness. To enjoy your leftovers, reheating is key. Here are my recommended methods: - Microwave: Place the chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot. Stir in between to ensure even heating. - Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Warm the chicken and sauce, stirring often. This method helps keep the dish creamy and flavorful. Both methods work well. Choose whichever fits your schedule! How can I make this dish spicier? To add some heat, include more red pepper flakes. Start with a half teaspoon. You can also add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice. Mix these into the creamy sauce as it simmers. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You will need about 4-5 medium tomatoes. Dice them and remove the seeds. Cook them down for a few minutes in the skillet to release their juices before adding the cream. What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option. If you want a dairy-free choice, try coconut cream or a cashew cream. These will change the flavor slightly but still keep it creamy. How to modify for meal prep To modify for meal prep, cook the chicken and sauce as directed. Then, store them in separate containers. This helps keep the chicken juicy and the sauce fresh. You can reheat them together when ready to eat. Can I double the recipe for a larger group? Yes, you can double the recipe easily. Just ensure your skillet is large enough. Cook the chicken in batches if needed. This way, each piece gets that nice golden color and stays juicy. Adjust seasonings as needed to keep the flavor balanced. This recipe is simple and tasty. You learned about main ingredients like chicken, olive oil, and tomatoes. I shared steps for a creamy sauce and tips for cooking. You can swap ingredients for variety and make it fit your diet. Don't forget the storage tips for your leftovers. With this guide, you can cook a delicious meal that impresses. Enjoy your cooking and create new flavors for everyone!

Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet

A delicious and creamy chicken dish with tomatoes and fresh basil, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
  • Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute or until fragrant.
  • Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and let them cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
  • Make it Creamy: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Season the Sauce: Add the chopped basil, dried Italian seasoning, grated Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined.
  • Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for another 3-4 minutes to heat through.
  • Final Touch: Check for seasoning and adjust with more salt and pepper if necessary.

Notes

Serve garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Pair with garlic bread or a side salad.
Keyword basil, chicken, creamy, skillet, tomato