Name: Creamy Tomato Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Why You’ll Love Creamy Tomato Chicken Recipe

This Creamy Tomato Chicken recipe is the perfect balance of rich and light. The combination of juicy seared chicken and a velvety tomato-cream sauce is comforting and flavorful. It’s made with simple pantry staples, ready in under an hour, and versatile enough to pair with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Whether you’re feeding the family or impressing guests, this dish will become a go-to favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 5–7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add diced onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Add the diced tomatoes (with juices) to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
Stir in the heavy cream and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper.
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the tomato cream sauce over them.
Cover and let simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Variations

Add vegetables: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Cheesy twist: Sprinkle in some grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Swap proteins: Use boneless thighs or even shrimp for a different flavor profile.
Dairy-free option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of cream or water to loosen it.

FAQs

How can I tell if the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes. Just make sure to simmer them long enough to soften and release their juices.

What can I serve with creamy tomato chicken?

It pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. A simple green salad also works well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and add even more flavor.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to reduce and thicken the sauce naturally. You can also stir in a bit of grated cheese or a cornstarch slurry if needed.

What herbs go well with this dish?

Basil is classic, but you can also try oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a different twist.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Whole milk or evaporated milk would be the best substitutes.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to pair it with gluten-free sides if needed.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for guests. With its rich tomato-cream sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Try it once, and you’ll be coming back to it again and again.

Creamy Tomato Chicken