Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken: A Cozy One-Pan Dinner Bursting with Flavor

When you’re craving something comforting yet fresh, look no further than Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken. Juicy golden-seared chicken breasts simmer in a velvety tomato cream sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and fresh basil. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet light enough to enjoy any night of the week.

The inspiration for this recipe comes from classic Italian flavors—ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese—transformed into a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to tender chicken. I first had a version of this dish in Rome, where it was served with crusty bread for dipping. The balance of rich cream and tangy tomatoes was unforgettable. This recipe brings those same flavors into your kitchen with a simple one-pan method that’s ready in under 40 minutes.

Whether it’s for a family dinner, a romantic night in, or even meal prep, this Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken will become a regular in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

• One-pan recipe: Easy prep and cleanup.

• Balanced flavors: Creamy, garlicky, tomato-rich, and herby.

• Quick & easy: Ready in under 40 minutes.

• Restaurant-quality: Feels gourmet but is simple to make.

• Versatile: Perfect with pasta, rice, or bread.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier meat)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

For the Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes (or tomato puree)

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• ¾ cup chicken broth (low sodium)

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for gentle heat)

• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or sliced

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil

• Extra Parmesan cheese

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How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken

1. Pat chicken dry with paper towels.

2. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

3. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F/74°C).

5. Transfer chicken to a plate and tent with foil.

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Step 2: Make the Tomato Basil Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.

3. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

4. Simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.

5. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.

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Step 3: Add Chicken Back to the Sauce

1. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top.

2. Stir in fresh basil and simmer on low heat for 5 minutes to meld flavors.

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Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh basil before serving.

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What to Serve with Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with:

Pasta & Grains

• Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne

• White or brown rice

• Quinoa or couscous

Potatoes

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Crispy roasted baby potatoes

• Creamy polenta

Vegetables

• Steamed broccoli or asparagus

• Roasted zucchini or eggplant

• Sautéed spinach with garlic

Bread

• Garlic breadsticks

• Crusty baguette

• Focaccia (for dipping into the sauce)

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Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

• Use fresh basil: It elevates the flavor and aroma.

• Simmer gently: High heat can curdle cream; keep the sauce low and slow.

• Add sugar if needed: Balances acidity from tomatoes.

• Don’t overcook chicken: Use a thermometer to avoid dryness.

• Double the sauce if serving with pasta—it’s too delicious not to.

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Recipe Variations

Creamy Tomato Basil Spinach Chicken

Add 2 cups fresh spinach in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Chicken

Replace tomato paste with 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.

Spicy Tomato Basil Chicken

Add extra red pepper flakes or fresh chili for a fiery version.

Cheesy Tomato Basil Chicken

Stir in mozzarella cheese for an even creamier sauce.

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Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating

Make-Ahead

• Chicken can be seared a day ahead. Sauce can be made separately and reheated.

Storage

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheating

• Skillet: Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of cream or broth.

• Microwave: Use 50% power in short bursts, stirring sauce often.

Freezing

• Cream sauces don’t always freeze well, but this recipe can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently after thawing.

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Healthier Options

• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

• Reduce cheese or use a smaller amount of a strong cheese like Pecorino Romano.

• Add more vegetables (zucchini, spinach, mushrooms) to lighten it up.

• Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use thighs instead of breasts?

Yes—chicken thighs are juicier and work wonderfully.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes—use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

What wine pairs with this dish?

A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creamy tomato flavors.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes—after searing chicken, transfer everything to an oven-safe skillet and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.

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Conclusion: A Cozy, Flavorful Classic

This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is the ultimate combination of comfort and freshness. With tender chicken simmered in a luscious tomato-basil cream sauce, it’s a recipe that feels elegant but is incredibly easy to make.

Pair it with pasta, rice, or warm bread, and you’ll have a meal that feels like a hug in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining friends, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a keeper you’ll return to again and again.

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Loved this recipe? Save it for your next weeknight dinner or share it with friends who adore comforting, flavorful meals. For more creamy chicken dishes, check out our Creamy Tuscan Chicken, Creamy Lemon Chicken, or Creamy Mushroom Chicken next!

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