Tomato Basil Chicken Cream: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Tomato Basil Chicken Cream – just the name conjures up images of a comforting, flavorful, and utterly satisfying meal, doesn’t it? I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, because it’s one of those dishes that’s both incredibly easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Forget complicated weeknight dinners; this is about to become your new go-to!

While the exact origins of this particular combination are a bit hazy, the marriage of tomatoes, basil, and cream is a culinary love story that spans continents. Think of the classic Italian tomato sauce, brightened with fresh basil, or the creamy tomato soups that have warmed hearts for generations. This recipe takes those familiar flavors and elevates them with tender chicken, creating a complete and balanced meal.

What’s not to love? The juicy chicken, simmered in a rich and creamy tomato sauce infused with the aromatic freshness of basil, is simply irresistible. People adore this dish because it’s a symphony of flavors and textures. The slight acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the cream, while the basil adds a bright, herbaceous note. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Serve it over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes for a truly comforting experience. So, are you ready to dive into this delectable Tomato Basil Chicken Cream recipe? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Tomato Basil Cream Sauce:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional Add-ins:
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained
• 1/2 cup spinach, fresh
• Serving Suggestions:
• Cooked pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or penne work well)
• Mashed potatoes
• Rice
• Crusty bread

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them to brown nicely. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking and tenderizes the chicken.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the flattened chicken breasts. Make sure to coat them thoroughly for maximum flavor.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook them in batches. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
4. Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate. Cover it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Making the Tomato Basil Cream Sauce:

1. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken (no need to clean it!), add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Heat over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
2. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (undrained) and the chicken broth. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
3. Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Add Basil and Season: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be sure to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Combining Chicken and Sauce:

1. Slice the Chicken: After the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
2. Combine: Add the sliced chicken to the tomato basil cream sauce in the skillet. Gently stir to coat the chicken with the sauce.
3. Heat Through: Return the skillet to low heat and heat the chicken and sauce through for another 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry.

Optional Add-ins (Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach):

1. Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If using sun-dried tomatoes, add them to the sauce along with the chicken. Their chewy texture and intense flavor add a wonderful dimension to the dish.
2. Spinach: If using spinach, add it to the sauce during the last minute of cooking. Stir until the spinach is wilted. Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and a boost of nutrients.

Serving:

1. Serve Over Pasta: Cook your favorite pasta according to package directions. Drain well and toss with the tomato basil chicken cream sauce. Linguine, fettuccine, and penne are all excellent choices.
2. Serve Over Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the tomato basil chicken cream over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. This is a comforting and satisfying meal.
3. Serve Over Rice: Serve the tomato basil chicken cream over cooked rice. White rice, brown rice, or even wild rice would be delicious.
4. With Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
5. Garnish: Garnish with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic flavor to the sauce. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but use about half the amount (1/8 cup).
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
• Make it Ahead: The tomato basil cream sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before adding the chicken.
• Spice it Up: For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a vegetarian option.
• Wine Pairing: A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc would pair well with this dish.

Variations:

• Mushroom Tomato Basil Chicken Cream: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the onions and garlic. Sauté until softened before adding the tomatoes and broth.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Chicken Cream: Stir in a tablespoon or two of sun-dried tomato pesto to the sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
• Creamy Pesto Chicken: Omit the diced tomatoes and add 1/4 cup of pesto to the cream sauce.
• Lemon Herb Chicken Cream: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce.

Conclusion:

This Tomato Basil Chicken Cream recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! From the juicy, perfectly seared chicken to the rich and creamy tomato basil sauce, every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes. I truly believe this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their home cooking game. It’s surprisingly simple to make, yet delivers restaurant-quality results that will impress your family and friends.

But what truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. While I’ve outlined my favorite way to prepare it, feel free to experiment and make it your own!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Pasta Perfection: Serve it over your favorite pasta! I personally love it with fettuccine or linguine, as the creamy sauce clings beautifully to the noodles. But penne, rigatoni, or even a gluten-free option would work wonderfully.
* Creamy Polenta: For a comforting and rustic meal, try serving the Tomato Basil Chicken Cream over a bed of creamy polenta. The soft polenta provides a delightful contrast to the richness of the sauce and the tenderness of the chicken.
* Garlic Bread Bliss: Don’t forget the garlic bread! A crusty loaf of garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce.
* Vegetable Boost: Add some extra vegetables to the sauce for a healthier and more colorful meal. Sautéed spinach, zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms would all be fantastic additions.
* Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
* Cheese Please: Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese or mozzarella cheese over the top before serving for an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
* Wine Pairing: A crisp Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied Chianti would be the perfect wine pairing for this dish.

I’m confident that you’ll love this Tomato Basil Chicken Cream as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The vibrant flavors and creamy texture are simply irresistible.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on the recipe. Cooking should be fun and enjoyable, so let your imagination run wild!

Once you’ve tried this recipe, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! I’m always eager to learn from my readers and see how they’re making my recipes their own. Happy cooking! I hope this Tomato Basil Chicken Cream becomes a staple in your recipe collection.

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