Imagine tender, pan-seared chicken bathed in a bright, zesty sauce bursting with sweet tomatoes and aromatic fresh basil. This Tomato Basil Chicken is a truly effortless and incredibly flavorful dish that captures the essence of fresh, simple ingredients. It’s a healthy, quick, and satisfying meal that feels gourmet but comes together in just one pan, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner or a light, elegant meal.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m a huge fan of dishes that celebrate fresh, seasonal ingredients with minimal fuss, and this Tomato Basil Chicken absolutely nails it! What I absolutely adore is the way the tender, juicy chicken perfectly complements the vibrant, tangy sweetness of the tomatoes and the irresistible aroma of fresh basil. The sauce is light yet incredibly flavorful, making every bite feel like a burst of Mediterranean sunshine. It’s incredibly easy to make, and its “one-pan” nature means less cleanup and more time to savor this delicious, healthy meal. It’s truly a go-to for effortless flavor!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 large), pounded to ½-inch thickness
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (about 2 cups)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- Optional: 1 tbsp balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- Optional: Cooked pasta or rice for serving
Swaps and Notes
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for quick, even cooking. Pounding them to a ½-inch thickness is crucial for tender results. You can also use thin-sliced chicken cutlets directly. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs could be used, but cooking time may increase slightly.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are perfect for their sweet burst of flavor and quick cooking time. Grape tomatoes or even a larger ripe tomato (diced) can be used.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for aromatic depth.
- Chicken Broth: Use a good quality low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness. White wine can be used for half of the broth for added complexity.
- Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is non-negotiable for this recipe’s vibrant flavor and aroma. Do not substitute with dried basil for the main quantity.
- Dried Oregano (Optional): A pinch of dried oregano complements the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
- Balsamic Glaze (Optional): A drizzle of balsamic glaze at the end adds a lovely sweet and tangy finish.
- Serving: This dish is versatile and can be served with various sides like pasta, rice, or even just crusty bread.
Instructions:
1. Prepare Chicken: Pat the boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they are very thick, place them between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to a uniform ½-inch thickness. This ensures quick and even cooking. Season the chicken generously on both sides with salt, black pepper, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder (if using).
2. Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Keep warm (you can tent it loosely with foil).
3. Make the Tomato Basil Sauce: In the same skillet (no need to clean it; the browned bits add flavor!), add the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and burst, and the garlic is fragrant. Pour in the ½ cup chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan; these “fonds” are packed with flavor! Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Stir in the ¼ cup fresh chopped basil and 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional). Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Combine & Serve: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the warm tomato-basil sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to coat. Let it warm through for about 1 minute. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze (if using). Serve immediately with your choice of cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Enjoy your delicious Tomato Basil Chicken!
Tips for Success
- Pound Chicken Evenly: This is crucial for tender, quick-cooking chicken.
- Don’t Overcook Chicken: Chicken breasts cook quickly. Cook just until done to keep them juicy.
- Fresh Ingredients Shine: Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes and plenty of fresh basil for the best flavor.
- Deglaze the Pan: Those browned bits from searing the chicken add immense flavor to the sauce.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh when the chicken is tender and the sauce is hot and bright.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Tomato Basil Chicken is a fantastic, complete meal on its own, perfect for any casual occasion.
- Pasta or Rice: Serve over a bed of al dente pasta (like linguine or penne) or fluffy white rice to soak up the sauce.
- Side Vegetables: Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple side salad would complement it well.
- Crusty Bread: Essential for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp, dry Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or a light-bodied Chianti would complement the zesty flavors perfectly.
- For other easy and flavorful chicken-based meals, explore these Chefmaniac.com favorites:
Storage and Leftover Tips
While Tomato Basil Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored.
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Tomato Basil Chicken (chicken and sauce) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce and bring it back to the desired consistency. Be careful not to overcook the chicken when reheating, as it can dry out.
- Freezing: Freezing is generally not recommended for this dish, as the fresh tomatoes may become mushy, and the chicken’s texture may suffer upon thawing and reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Tomato Basil Chicken is a truly delightful and incredibly easy dish that brings the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. Its tender chicken and bright tomato-basil sauce make for a satisfying and surprisingly quick meal that feels gourmet. Get ready to add this fantastic one-pan wonder to your regular dinner rotation!
What are your go-to quick and healthy chicken recipes, or do you have a secret ingredient that makes your tomato sauces extra special? Share your ideas and tips in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow Chefmaniac for more exciting and delicious recipes!
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