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Featured image of delicious Tomato Basil Chicken, a flavorful and healthy meal.

Easy Tomato Basil Chicken

This Easy Tomato Basil Chicken is a flavorful and versatile weeknight dinner that's ready in under an hour. Tender chicken breasts are simmered in a vibrant tomato sauce infused with fresh basil, garlic, and herbs, then topped with melted mozzarella for a satisfying and customizable meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Spatula or spoon
  • paper towels
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
  5. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
  6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  7. Nestle the seared chicken breasts into the tomato sauce. Make sure they're mostly submerged in the sauce.
  8. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
  9. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the chopped fresh basil.
  10. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese (if using) over the chicken. Cover the skillet and let it sit for a few minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  11. Serve over pasta, rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread. Garnish with extra fresh basil, if desired.

Notes

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Don't overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). Season generously. If the sauce is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar or a drizzle of honey. This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. For variations, try using chicken thighs instead of breasts, or add sliced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.