This easy chicken dish is a real winner! Juicy chicken breasts are kissed with a creamy tomato and basil sauce that makes every bite feel special.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Serve it over pasta or rice for a comforting meal. Honestly, it’s so good that I might just lick the plate! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish. If you’re in a pinch, you can use thighs for a juicier option. Or go for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian take!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add great flavor and texture. If you don’t have them, try fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers instead. Just cook them a little longer to soften in the sauce.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of Greek yogurt and milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less thick, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brings brightness to the dish. If you don’t have it, dried basil is a good alternative, but use less since dried herbs are more concentrated—about a tablespoon should do.
How Do I Make the Sauce Extra Creamy and Flavorful?
Creating a rich, creamy sauce is key in this recipe. The trick is to slowly combine and cook your ingredients together to build flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- After cooking the garlic, add the sun-dried tomatoes for a minute. This releases their oils and infuses the garlic flavor.
- When adding chicken broth and cream, stir well and scrape the bottom to get those tasty bits off the pan. That’s where the flavor hides!
- Don’t rush the sauce thickening process. Let it simmer so it reduces and becomes creamy.
- Before serving, always taste your sauce! Adjust with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to make it just right.
With these tips, you’re sure to make a creamy sauce that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Chicken With Tomato Basil Cream Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced thin or pounded flat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (preferably packed in oil, sliced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes to create a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will help enhance the flavor. Set it aside while you heat the pan.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. This step will add a lovely aroma to your dish!
4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute. This will enhance the flavors and help release the oils from the tomatoes.
5. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—they’re packed with flavor!
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Add in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir continuously until the sauce starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on it—smooth and creamy is the goal!
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Allow it to simmer together for another 2-3 minutes. This melds the flavors beautifully!
8. Add Fresh Basil:
Finally, stir in the chopped fresh basil. It’ll add a burst of freshness that balances the creamy sauce.
9. Season to Taste:
Give your sauce a taste. Adjust with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the chicken and drizzle the creamy tomato basil sauce over the top. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Chicken With Tomato Basil Cream Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure it’s completely thawed before cooking. The best way to thaw is by placing it in the fridge overnight or using the cold water method: seal the chicken in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed. Pat it dry before seasoning.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of Greek yogurt and milk. Just note that using yogurt may alter the texture slightly, so stir it in off the heat to prevent curdling.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, add a splash of cream or broth to loosen it up.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes during the cooking process or serve with a sprinkle on top when you plate your dish. Adjust the amount to your spice tolerance!
