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Looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing dinner that tastes like it came from a cozy Italian bistro? This Creamy Tomato and Basil Chicken has your name on it. Juicy chicken breasts are pan-seared until golden, then simmered in a rich tomato cream sauce bursting with garlic, Parmesan, and fresh basil.
Be sure to check out our Marry Me Chicken or Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken next!
Ingredient Substitutions Table
| Ingredient | Substitute Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | Chicken thighs, tofu (for vegetarian) | Thighs are juicier; tofu for meat-free |
| Half & half | Heavy cream, coconut cream (dairy-free) | Coconut cream gives a slight sweetness |
| Kale | Spinach, Swiss chard | Spinach wilts faster |
| Parmesan cheese | Grana Padano, nutritional yeast (vegan) | Nutritional yeast adds umami |
How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts and season both sides.
Sear in a hot skillet until golden and cooked through.
Sauté garlic and chili flakes in the same pan.
Pour in tomato sauce and half & half, then simmer.
Stir in Parmesan and kale until wilted and creamy.
Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with sauce.
Meal Plan Pairing Table
| Day | Meal Idea Using This Chicken |
|---|---|
| Monday | Creamy Chicken over pasta |
| Tuesday | Leftovers in wraps with roasted veggies |
| Wednesday | Chicken grain bowls with quinoa and arugula |
| Thursday | Chicken-stuffed zucchini boats |
| Friday | Tomato basil chicken panini with mozzarella |
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly and stay extra juicy. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
You can use heavy cream for a richer sauce or a mix of milk and cream. For a lighter version, try evaporated milk.
Yes, it can be. Just skip the kale (if watching carbs) and make sure your tomato sauce has no added sugar.
Absolutely. Use coconut cream instead of half & half and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
Serving Suggestions
If you give this creamy tomato basil chicken a try, we’d love to hear what you think—don’t forget to leave a star rating and comment below, it really helps!
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Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken breasts, 2 large, cut in half lengthwise
- Salt, as needed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 cup half & half
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 4 cups kale, ribs removed, cut into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons basil leaves
Instructions
- Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to make thinner cutlets. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the hot skillet and sear for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red chili flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and half & half. Stir well, bring to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add the grated Parmesan and chopped kale. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kale is wilted and the sauce is creamy.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon some sauce over the top, and cook for another minute to heat through.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Video
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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I have made this recipe for Years and I also add Capers and White Wine , Try it Delicious. Fancy enough for Guest too .
Thank you, Sonia! Capers and white wine sound like a delicious addition—definitely elevates it for guests. I’ll have to try it your way next time! 😊
Easy to make, and was a hit in my household. Didn’t have fresh kale so used a frozen spinach/kale blend, thawed – worked well. Love the hint of heat from the red pepper flakes!
Hi Karen! That’s awesome to hear—love how you made it work with what you had on hand. The bit of spice really brings the flavors to life, doesn’t it? Thanks so much for sharing!