Description: This comforting Tomato Basil Chicken Breast recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy balsamic tomato sauce and fresh basil for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
How This Dish Became a Weeknight Favorite
Every home cook has that one recipe they can count on—the kind that turns an ordinary Tuesday night into something special without adding extra stress. For me, that’s the Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet with Creamy Balsamic Sauce. I discovered it on a night when I was low on time but craving something comforting and full of flavor. The moment garlic hit the hot skillet and blended with the sweetness of tomatoes and the earthy scent of fresh basil, the kitchen transformed into something out of a rustic Italian evening.
What makes this Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet with Creamy Balsamic Sauce so special is how effortlessly it delivers warmth and satisfaction. The juicy chicken breasts simmering gently in a creamy balsamic tomato sauce create layers of aroma that fill the room before you even plate the dish. It’s cozy, homestyle cooking with a touch of restaurant flair—perfect for busy weeknights when you still want a meal that feels made with love.
Over time, this recipe became a staple in my weekly rotation. I could prep it in under 30 minutes, and it never failed to impress family and friends. The Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken always finds a way to bring everyone to the table faster than anything else I make. Whether you’re new to cooking or just need something quick and satisfying, this Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet with Creamy Balsamic Sauce promises to be your new favorite go-to dinner.
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Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet with Creamy Balsamic Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This comforting skillet recipe features tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy balsamic tomato sauce with fresh basil for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and set aside
2. Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium high and sear chicken 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden
3. Remove chicken and add garlic to the skillet, cook until fragrant
4. Add balsamic vinegar and scrape browned bits from the pan
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth and simmer until slightly thickened
6. Reduce heat and whisk in heavy cream and optional Parmesan until smooth
7. Return chicken to the sauce, spoon sauce over top, cover and simmer until chicken is cooked through
8. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: dinner
- Method: skillet
- Cuisine: italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 700
- Fat: 25
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 100
Keywords: tomato, basil, chicken, balsamic, creamy, skillet, easy, weeknight
Why It’s More Than Just Another Chicken Recipe
At first glance, this dish might seem like another simple chicken recipe—but the balance of flavors in the Creamy Balsamic Tomato Sauce sets it apart. The combination of tangy balsamic vinegar, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil gives a unique depth that transforms basic chicken breasts into something truly memorable. The sauce is creamy without being heavy, with just the right amount of sweetness to offset the tang.
Using high-quality ingredients makes a world of difference here. A good balsamic vinegar adds richness, while the burst of juicy tomatoes and a handful of fresh basil make the dish feel fresh and vibrant. Even better, everything in this Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet with Creamy Balsamic Sauce can come right from your pantry or fridge—olive oil, garlic, cream, and a few spices are all you need.
That’s what makes it special: simplicity that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. It’s hearty enough for a family dinner yet elegant enough to serve guests. Every bite of this Chicken with Balsamic Tomato Sauce tells a story of comfort, flavor, and versatility—proof that good food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Gathering Fresh Ingredients for Success
Before you start cooking, gather everything you need to make your Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet with Creamy Balsamic Sauce come together effortlessly. Having ingredients prepped and ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (around 1 ½ pounds total)
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes (or fresh ripe tomatoes, diced)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (use good-quality aged balsamic)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or substitute half-and-half)
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped basil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions:
- If you don’t have fresh basil, use half the amount of dried basil since it’s more concentrated.
- For a dairy-free Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream.
- Don’t skip the balsamic vinegar—it’s key to the Chicken with Balsamic Tomato Sauce flavor.
- Slowly sauté garlic in olive oil to infuse flavor before adding tomatoes.
Ripe tomatoes add sweetness, while premium balsamic vinegar deepens the sauce’s profile. Combined with fresh basil, these ingredients produce the distinctive aroma that defines Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for This Skillet Recipe
Cooking the perfect Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet with Creamy Balsamic Sauce also depends on using the right tools.
- Heavy-bottomed skillet (10–12 inches): For even browning and consistent heat.
- Tongs: To flip chicken without piercing it.
- Whisk: To blend cream, balsamic vinegar, and tomato sauce smoothly.
- Sharp knife: For prep accuracy.
- Cutting board: Keeps workspace organized.
- Measuring cups/spoons: Maintain ingredient ratios.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring sauces.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Heavy-Bottomed Skillet | Even searing and consistent heat for sauce reduction |
| Tongs | Turn and move chicken easily without losing juiciness |
| Whisk | Blend creamy balsamic sauce until smooth |
| Sharp Knife | Prep ingredients finely for balanced flavor |
| Cutting Board | Provides a safe, organized prep area |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Maintain proper ingredient ratios |
| Wooden Spoon | Gently stir sauce, ensuring even cooking |
With all your tools organized and ingredients prepped, you’re ready to create Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet with Creamy Balsamic Sauce perfection in one pan.
Preparing and Searing the Chicken Breast
Season the chicken breasts well with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Let them rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature for even cooking. Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. When it shimmers, lay the chicken flat and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside; the meat will finish cooking in the sauce.
Don’t clean out the skillet—those browned bits left behind are full of flavor and will form the base of your Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken sauce. The goal is tender meat with caramelized edges that hold up beautifully once coated.
Creating the Creamy Balsamic Tomato Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and drizzle a little more olive oil if needed. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and scrape up the flavorful bits using a wooden spoon. As the vinegar reduces, stir in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth and simmer for 5–7 minutes. This deepens the richness of your Chicken with Balsamic Tomato Sauce.
Turn heat to low, then whisk in heavy cream. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Add grated Parmesan, if using, for an extra creamy texture. Return the chicken to the skillet and cover; simmer gently for 6–8 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over pasta or rice.
- Enjoy with crusty bread for dipping.
- Pair with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
This Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken gives you a satisfying, restaurant-style dinner using one skillet—all in under an hour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes. Boneless thighs remain juicy and flavorful, needing just a few extra minutes of simmering to reach 165°F.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Try half-and-half for a lighter version, or use coconut or cashew cream for a dairy-free approach.
How long can this Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet be stored in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute coconut milk for cream and skip Parmesan. The balsamic and tomato flavors stay perfectly balanced.
What side dishes pair best with this meal?
This dish shines with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a crisp salad, plus bread for soaking up the sauce.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes. Make the sauce up to two days ahead; when ready, reheat and add freshly seared chicken to finish.
Final Thoughts on the Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
The Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet with Creamy Balsamic Sauce captures what home cooking is all about—simple ingredients elevated through balance and care. Its tangy-sweet sauce, creamy texture, and fragrant basil make an unforgettable combination that feels indulgent yet easy.
Because it comes together quickly with pantry staples, this recipe is perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining. Each forkful embodies warmth and comfort, proving that the best meals don’t require complicated steps—just good ingredients, one skillet, and a little love. Once you try it, the Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken will become a cherished addition to your dinner rotation.
