Tomato‑Basil Chicken

Tomato‑Basil Chicken: A Simple Yet Elegant Recipe for Every Home Cook

Ever wondered how some of the simplest ingredients can create the most extraordinary flavors? That’s the magic behind a perfectly executed Tomato‑Basil Chicken dish – a symphony of tangy tomatoes, aromatic basil, and succulent chicken that dance together on your palate.

This Tomato‑Basil Chicken recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The beauty lies in its simplicity and the bold Mediterranean flavors that make each bite memorable.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, this dish delivers impressive results with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this culinary delight that has stood the test of time across kitchens worldwide.

Ingredients List

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your perfect Tomato-Basil Chicken masterpiece:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds total)
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes)
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn, plus extra for garnish
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Substitution options: Use chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture. Vegetarians can swap chicken for firm tofu or cauliflower steaks. If fresh basil isn’t available, use 2 tablespoons dried basil, though the fresh version delivers that signature aromatic punch.

Timing

Preparation Time: 15 minutes – just enough time to chop ingredients while enjoying your favorite cooking playlist.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes – 25% faster than traditional Italian chicken dishes that often require simmering for hours.

Total Time: 45 minutes – perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something impressive without spending the entire evening in the kitchen.

Active Time: 25 minutes – the remaining time allows you to set the table, prepare a side dish, or simply relax with a glass of wine.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This crucial step ensures proper browning and flavor development. For even cooking, consider pounding thicker parts of the breast to create uniform thickness.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering (but not smoking), add the chicken breasts. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage – we’ll finish it later in the sauce.

Step 3: Create the Aromatic Base

Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Build the Tomato-Basil Sauce

Add cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook for 5 minutes until they begin to burst and release their juices. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and use a wooden spoon to scrape up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This technique, called deglazing, incorporates all those concentrated flavors into your sauce.

Step 5: Simmer and Infuse

Add the chicken broth, dried oregano, and half of the fresh basil to the pan. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle the remaining fresh basil over the dish. If using, add the grated Parmesan cheese. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chicken to reabsorb some of the delicious sauce.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Tomato‑Basil Chicken provides a balanced nutritional profile that supports your dietary goals:

Calories: Approximately 320 per serving (without optional Parmesan)

Protein: 38g – delivering 76% of the average daily protein requirement

Carbohydrates: 9g – making this a suitable option for low-carb dietary plans

Fat: 16g (5g saturated) – primarily heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil

Fiber: 2g – from the vegetables in the sauce

Sodium: 380mg – 16% of recommended daily intake

Potassium: 820mg – supporting healthy blood pressure levels

Vitamin C: 45% of daily value – primarily from the fresh tomatoes

Calcium: 8% of daily value (25% if including Parmesan)

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Transform this already nutritious dish into versions that accommodate various dietary needs:

For lower sodium: Reduce salt and use low-sodium chicken broth. The abundant herbs and spices will still provide plenty of flavor without the extra sodium.

For lower fat: Use chicken breast tenders which cook faster and require less oil. Replace some of the olive oil with a splash of additional chicken broth when sautéing vegetables.

For keto dieters: This recipe is already keto-friendly! Add extra olive oil or top with additional cheese for more healthy fats.

For gluten-free needs: Good news – this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your chicken broth label to ensure it contains no gluten additives.

For vegetarians: Substitute the chicken with portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices. These vegetables absorb the flavors beautifully while providing a satisfying texture.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your Tomato‑Basil Chicken with these complementary sides and presentation ideas:

For a classic Italian meal: Serve over al dente pasta tossed with a touch of olive oil and fresh herbs. The sauce from the chicken acts as a perfect pasta dressing.

For a low-carb option: Pair with roasted spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a lighter alternative that still captures the essence of Italian comfort food.

For a rustic presentation: Serve directly from the skillet at the table, family-style, with a loaf of crusty bread for soaking up the irresistible sauce.

For an elegant dinner party: Plate individually with a swirl of sauce, a fresh basil sprig, and a light dusting of microplaned Parmesan. Add a side of steamed asparagus or broccolini for color contrast.

Wine pairing suggestion: A medium-bodied Sangiovese or Chianti complements the tomato acidity perfectly, while a Pinot Noir offers a lighter alternative that won’t overpower the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary. Crowded chicken steams rather than sears, preventing that golden crust from forming.
• Skipping the chicken drying step: Wet chicken won’t brown properly. Pat it dry for that perfect sear that seals in juices.
• Adding fresh basil too early: Heat destroys basil’s delicate flavor compounds. Add most of it at the end to preserve its aromatic essence.
• Rushing the tomato cooking process: Allow tomatoes sufficient time to break down and release their sweet-tart flavors into the sauce.
• Slicing the chicken immediately after cooking: Let it rest for 5 minutes before cutting to keep juices inside the meat rather than on your cutting board.
• Using cold chicken straight from the refrigerator: Let chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking for more even results.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Extend the enjoyment of your Tomato-Basil Chicken with these storage best practices:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually intensify overnight, making this dish even more delicious the next day.

Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Portion into individual servings before freezing for convenient single meals. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Warm gently in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth to revitalize the sauce. Microwave at 70% power with a damp paper towel covering the dish to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Meal prep tip: Prepare the tomato-basil sauce up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and add fresh chicken for a significantly faster cooking process.

Conclusion

This Tomato-Basil Chicken recipe proves that culinary excellence doesn’t require complicated techniques or exotic ingredients. The magic happens when quality ingredients meet proper technique, creating a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

The bright acidity of tomatoes, the aromatic punch of fresh basil, and the satisfying protein of perfectly cooked chicken come together in a harmonious blend that satisfies both the palate and the soul. This versatile recipe adapts to your dietary needs while maintaining its core Mediterranean flavor profile.

Have you tried this Tomato-Basil Chicken recipe? We’d love to hear your experience! Share your photos, modifications, or serving suggestions in the comments below. And if you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out our other Italian-inspired dishes that bring restaurant quality to your home kitchen!