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Homemade Creamy Basil Chicken with Burst Tomatoes photo

Creamy Basil Chicken with Burst Tomatoes

This Creamy Basil Chicken with Burst Tomatoes is a vibrant, easy weeknight dinner bursting with fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and a luscious creamy sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts fresh, high-quality
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup heavy cream good-quality
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin
  • 3 cloves garlic minced, fresh
  • 0.5 cup fresh basil chopped
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Serving plate or platter

Method
 

Prepare the Chicken
  1. Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season them generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
Sear the Chicken
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
  1. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium, add the minced garlic, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and burst.
Make the Creamy Sauce
  1. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine with the tomatoes and garlic. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add Basil and Seasoning
  1. Stir in the chopped fresh basil and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste the sauce and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
Return Chicken to the Pan
  1. Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spoon some of the creamy tomato basil sauce over the top, and allow everything to simmer together for 2-3 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors.
Serve and Enjoy
  1. Serve the Creamy Basil Chicken with Burst Tomatoes hot, spooning extra sauce over the chicken. It pairs well with rice, pasta, or a simple green salad.

Notes

  • Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best bursting effect and natural sweetness.
  • Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier alternative; adjust cooking time accordingly.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated up to 3 days and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat gently to maintain the creaminess of the sauce and avoid separation.
  • Try adding seasonal vegetables like peas, asparagus, or mushrooms for variety.