This easy chicken dish is topped with a rich and creamy tomato basil sauce that is full of flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Honestly, the creamy sauce makes me feel like a chef! I love serving it with pasta or crusty bread to soak up every last drop. Simple and delicious—what’s not to like?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay tender. You can substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat, or use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a great depth of flavor. If you don’t have them, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just dice them and add them earlier in the cooking process to soften them up. Canned diced tomatoes can also work, but drain them first.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less creamy. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, coconut cream is a great alternative that adds a lovely richness.
Basil: Fresh basil is what gives this dish its bright flavor. If you can’t find it, consider using dried basil, but use a smaller amount as it’s more concentrated.
How Do You Make a Creamy Sauce Without It Separating?
The key to a smooth and creamy sauce is to manage the heat. Start with medium-high heat for browning the chicken, but once you add the cream, switch to medium-low. This way, the cream doesn’t boil vigorously, which can cause it to break apart.
- Always stir frequently when adding cream and other dairy products to your sauce.
- If you notice the sauce thickening too quickly, lower the heat and add a splash of broth to adjust the consistency.
- Adding cheese like Parmesan at the end helps to thicken the sauce without making it grainy.
- Be sure to incorporate any cooked ingredients, like garlic, fully before adding the cream to avoid uneven flavor.
Easy Chicken with Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced (preferably oil-packed, drained)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or torn)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious meal in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken strips with salt and black pepper. Make sure both sides are coated well for great flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips, cooking them until they are golden brown and cooked all the way through—this should take about 4-5 minutes on each side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet with the leftover oil, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until you begin to smell its amazing aroma. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add Broth and Deglaze:
Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty browned bits clinging to the bottom with a wooden spoon. This adds wonderful flavor to your sauce!
5. Make the Sauce:
Now, stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often until the sauce thickens slightly. This usually takes about 4-6 minutes.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet, making sure they’re well coated with that delicious creamy sauce. Let them warm up in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes.
7. Finish with Fresh Herbs:
Stir in the fresh basil leaves. Give the sauce a taste, and if you’d like, adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for a kick!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken immediately, swimming in the creamy tomato basil sauce. It’s perfect over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up every delicious bite!
Enjoy this simple yet luxurious dish that combines tender chicken with a velvety tomato basil cream sauce!
FAQ for Easy Chicken with Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is in the fridge overnight or using the cold water method (place it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water). Once thawed, pat the chicken dry to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can work, but the sauce won’t be as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamy texture without the dairy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a little chicken broth to loosen it up.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté them with the garlic before adding the broth. This not only adds nutrition but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish!
