Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe
If you’re craving a meal that feels both restaurant-worthy and perfectly comfortable for a weeknight, Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce is exactly what you need. Juicy chicken, loads of fresh basil, a little kick of garlic, and a buttery tomato sauce all come together in just 30 minutes. This dish is full of bright color and summery flavor, yet it warms your belly just right—whether you’re eating solo or entertaining friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how such a simple ingredient list can create something so mouthwatering! Each component in Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce brings its own magic to the table—freshness, richness, a pop of color, and irresistible savoriness.
- Chicken breasts: Go for boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces for speedy cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- Olive oil: The essential base for searing and flavor, plus it keeps the chicken tender.
- Garlic: Minced fresh for bold aroma—don’t skimp!
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, but perfect for a subtle, peppery heat that livens up the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate every layer of the dish.
- Tomato paste: Delivers concentrated, deep tomato flavor that thickens and sweetens the sauce.
- Cherry tomatoes: Their sweetness and color burst through as they soften and meld into the sauce.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and richness, while keeping the sauce silky smooth.
- Unsalted butter: The secret to luscious, glossy sauce (don’t skip it!).
- Fresh basil leaves: Chopped and stirred in at the end for the brightest, most fragrant finish.
- Parmesan cheese: Totally optional, but a sprinkle right before serving adds salty, nutty luxury.
How to Make Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
First, grab your chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized pieces—this not only speeds up the cooking but ensures every morsel is coated in sauce later. Sprinkle the chicken generously with salt and black pepper. Don’t be shy here: this initial seasoning is what builds foundational flavor for your Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Set a large skillet over medium-high heat and swirl in the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes so you get those golden, delicious seared bits, then stir occasionally until they’re browned and cooked through—about 5–6 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate so it doesn’t overcook, but keep those flavorful juices lingering in the pan.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Tomato Base
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and, if you like things spicy, the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir them around for about 30 seconds until the air smells incredible—just be sure to keep the heat in check to avoid burning the garlic. Next, stir in the tomato paste; give it a solid minute over the heat. This bloom deepens its flavor and underpins the whole Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce with irresistible richness.
Step 4: Burst the Tomatoes and Simmer the Sauce
Toss in the cherry tomatoes and watch as they gently soften, releasing sweet juices as they burst. After 3–4 minutes, pour in the chicken broth. Now, bring everything to a gentle simmer. As the sauce comes together, stir in the unsalted butter until it’s completely melted and the sauce looks glossy and inviting. This is where the dish transforms from simple to absolutely luxurious.
Step 5: Return Chicken and Add Basil
Slide the seared chicken and any juices back into the skillet. Toss thoroughly so every piece soaks up that velvety tomato butter sauce. Lower the heat and let everything meld for 2–3 more minutes, then stir in the chopped fresh basil. You’ll notice the fragrance lifting off the pan—fresh, green, and the perfect counterpoint to the savory sauce of your Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Spoon the chicken and plenty of sauce over your base of choice—rice, pasta, or slices of crusty bread are all dreamy options. If you’re in the mood, finish with a snowfall of Parmesan cheese right before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Serve Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce
Garnishes
A final flourish of Parmesan cheese or extra chopped basil really elevates this dish to something special. A light dusting adds a hint of salty, creamy goodness, while a few basil leaves offer a burst of fresh green color that pops on the plate—both are fantastic for Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish loves company! Pair it with buttery noodles, fluffy garlic mashed potatoes, or even tender steamed rice to soak up that luscious tomato butter sauce. A crisp green salad with a zippy vinaigrette also adds a nice contrast and keeps your meal balanced and light.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style experience, bring the skillet right to the table and let everyone help themselves. Or, for a dinner party spin, spoon Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce over individual bowls of creamy polenta and top with microgreens or lemon zest. You can even spoon leftovers onto toasted baguette slices for a savory bruschetta twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, lucky you—this meal keeps beautifully! Transfer cooled Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce to an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors only get deeper and cozier as they mingle overnight.
Freezing
For longer storage, let everything cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture—the sauce might separate a bit, but a gentle reheat brings it right back together.
Reheating
To reheat, pour everything into a skillet or saucepan and gently warm over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce seems thick. For a quick microwave fix, cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between so the sauce stays silky.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are deliciously juicy and hold up well in Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce. Just trim excess fat and cook them the same way as the breasts.
How spicy is this recipe?
The kick from crushed red pepper flakes is totally customizable. Add a little for gentle warmth, or leave it out if you prefer a milder sauce. You’re always in control of the heat!
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes?
Yes! While cherry tomatoes give a fresh, bright pop of sweetness, you can substitute with one cup of well-drained canned diced tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand—your Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce will still be delightful.
What pasta shapes work best with this sauce?
Angel hair, spaghetti, or penne all work perfectly. The silky tomato butter sauce clings beautifully to noodles, so feel free to use your favorite shape or whatever’s hanging out in the pantry.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Definitely. Simply swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative or olive oil, and skip the Parmesan cheese. The sauce will still be flavorful and luxurious!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that brings together comfort, vibrant flavor, and easy elegance, Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce is truly a must-try. It’s the kind of meal that wins hearts at the table and becomes a staple in your kitchen, so roll up your sleeves and experience just how rewarding homemade Italian-inspired chicken can be!
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Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Tender chicken pieces are cooked in a rich tomato butter sauce with aromatic garlic, fresh basil, and cherry tomatoes. Serve this dish with your favorite pasta or rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cook for 30 seconds. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened. Pour in chicken broth, stir in butter until melted.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return chicken to skillet, toss to coat in sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in fresh basil.
- Serve: Serve hot with rice, pasta, or crusty bread. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of cream or more butter at the end.
- This dish pairs well with angel hair pasta or garlic mashed potatoes.
- Use sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
