Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts

If you’re in the mood for a simple yet flavourful weeknight meal, this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken recipe is a must-try. Juicy chicken breasts are simmered in a rich tomato sauce with a hint of cream and a fragrant blend of basil and garlic. This dish is packed with flavour and can be on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick but satisfying dinner.

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes (optional, but highly recommended)
400ml canned diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
50ml cream
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan (optional, for garnish)

METHOD

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Wash the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

2. Brown the Chicken:

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken breasts for about 2-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and keep it covered to stay warm.

3. Build the Sauce:

In the same skillet, add minced garlic, dried basil, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Add the Tomatoes and Cream:

Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavour. Slowly whisk in the cream, allowing the sauce to come together.

5. Simmer the Chicken:

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Bring the mixture to a low simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let the chicken cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

6. Serve and Garnish:

Once done, remove the chicken from heat and garnish with freshly chopped basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve the chicken hot with the creamy tomato sauce spooned over the top.

Pairing Suggestions:

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. It’s also excellent with a side of crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce.

This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is a comforting and quick recipe that will easily become a weeknight staple. Enjoy the mix of fresh basil, savoury tomatoes, and tender chicken for a dish that feels gourmet but is easy to make!