– **Title**: Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
– **Instructions**:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and dried oregano, cooking for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
7. Stir in the chopped basil and balsamic vinegar (if using) before serving.
8. Serve the creamy tomato basil chicken over pasta or alongside rice, and garnish with extra basil if desired. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a richer flavor, just adjust the cooking time a bit since thighs take longer to cook.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds wonderful aroma and taste. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute with about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. But fresh is always best for that punchy flavor!
Heavy Cream: This is key for a creamy sauce, but you can swap it for half-and-half or a dairy-free cream for a lighter option. Just keep in mind the sauce may be less thick and rich.
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes in a can are super convenient. You can also use fresh tomatoes, just chop them up and add a little broth to give you the same saucy texture.
Basil: Fresh basil is my favorite because it brightens the dish. If you don’t have it, dried basil works fine, though I recommend using a bit more since dried herbs can be less potent.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken to perfection can be tricky, so here are some tips. Start with a well-heated skillet. This helps create a nice sear and locks in moisture. Make sure not to overcrowd your pan; if necessary, cook in batches.
- Season the chicken well with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. It should shimmer when ready.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicier! Remember to reduce the heat when adding the garlic to avoid burning.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breasts?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough for special occasions!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice golden brown crust. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant (but be careful not to burn it!). Next, add the drained diced tomatoes, heavy cream, dried basil, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together well and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is warmed through again and all the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your creamy tomato basil chicken with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy it warm with your favorite side dishes, whether it’s pasta, rice, or a fresh salad!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce might be thinner. If you need a non-dairy option, consider using coconut cream or a cashew cream for a rich texture without dairy. Just be aware that these substitutions may change the flavor profile slightly.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Properly?
The best way to confirm the chicken is cooked through is by using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the chicken—its juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink.
Can I Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance! Just follow the recipe up to the point of adding the chicken, allow the sauce to cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently before adding the chicken back in.
What are the Best Sides to Serve with This Dish?
This creamy tomato basil chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides! Consider serving it with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. For a lighter option, a crisp salad or steamed vegetables would also be delightful.
