Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe
There is nothing quite like the combination of fresh herbs, luscious tomato flavors, and tender chicken to make dinner feel special. The Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe delivers all of this in a beautifully simple skillet dish that bursts with vibrant colors and rich tastes. It’s the kind of meal that looks like you spent hours creating, but the truth is, it comes together quickly and easily. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or impressing friends, this recipe will surely become one of your favorites to return to time and time again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe plays an important role, and each one is easy to find. From the savory garlic to the fresh basil, these essentials work harmoniously to create a sauce that’s deeply flavorful and silky smooth.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose breasts for a leaner option or thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and balances the sauce.
- Black pepper: Adds a mild bite without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic powder: Provides a subtle background garlic flavor that complements the fresh garlic used later.
- Olive oil: Key for searing the chicken to a golden, crispy finish.
- Fresh garlic cloves (minced): Brings a wonderful aromatic punch to the sauce.
- Cherry tomatoes (halved): Provide sweetness and a fresh burst that softens beautifully when cooked.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce to a luscious consistency.
- Chicken broth or water: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce without overpowering it.
- Unsalted butter (cubed): Melts in for a glossy, rich finish that rounds out the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Fresh basil leaves (chopped): Brightens the dish and adds a fresh, herbal note that’s truly irresistible.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For topping, adds salty, nutty complexity that complements the sauce perfectly.
How to Make Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken generously on both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, and add the chicken. Sear it until it’s golden brown on each side, about 5–6 minutes per side. This step not only locks in juicy tenderness but also creates a beautiful crust that contrasts with the silky sauce. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Build the Tomato Butter Sauce
Use the same skillet to your advantage. Add the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—never let garlic burn because it can turn bitter. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them gently for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the tomatoes begin to soften and break down, releasing their juices. This forms the base of the sauce, packed with freshness and sweetness.
Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Simmer
Next, stir in the tomato paste and pour in the chicken broth or water. This step thickens the sauce while adding a depth of flavor, turning the fresh tomato base into something much richer. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly and intensify the taste.
Step 4: Finish with Butter and Basil
Lower the heat and stir in the cubed unsalted butter bit by bit. The butter melts gently into the sauce, making it rich and glossy, with a smooth texture that coats every bite. Fold in the chopped fresh basil for a punch of bright, herbal fragrance that elevates the entire dish. Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the beautiful tomato butter sauce generously over each piece.
How to Serve Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To take this dish to the next level, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the top right before serving. The nutty, salty flavor of the cheese melds perfectly with the buttery tomato sauce and fresh basil, adding a delightful finishing touch that looks as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up the saucy goodness. Try it over a bed of al dente pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or fluffy steamed rice. Even crusty artisan bread is fantastic for mopping up every last bit of sauce. Consider lightly steamed or roasted vegetables to add a touch of freshness and crunch on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to make this dish shine for a dinner party, try plating the chicken on individual serving dishes with a swirl of sauce artistically draped over the top. Add whole basil leaves and a small cluster of cherry tomatoes for an elegant pop of color. A drizzle of balsamic glaze around the plate elevates the visual appeal and enhances the flavor experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover garlic basil chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing to preserve freshness and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to save portions for later. Transfer cooled chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, then freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating
When reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, to preserve the sauce’s creamy texture and avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of broth during reheating can help refresh the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully in this Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe and offer a bit more juicy richness compared to breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed to ensure they are cooked through.
What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil, but add it earlier in the cooking process to allow its flavor to infuse. Another option is fresh parsley for a different herbal note, though the classic basil taste is unique here.
Is this recipe appropriate for gluten-free diets?
Yes! All the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve with gluten-free sides if needed to keep the entire meal safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
For a plant-based twist, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or seitan and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Use vegan butter to maintain the creamy sauce texture. The flavor will be lovely and herbaceous but with a different protein profile.
How can I adjust the garlic level in the sauce?
This Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe balances garlic perfectly for most tastes, but if you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the garlic amount to suit your palate.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With its inviting aroma, vibrant colors, and layers of flavor, it’s a welcome addition to any dinner rotation. I encourage you to try it soon—you’ll likely find it becoming a cherished favorite that’s as fun to make as it is delicious to eat.
Print
Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce is a flavorful Italian-inspired main course featuring juicy chicken breasts cooked to perfection in a savory tomato butter sauce infused with garlic and fresh basil. This easy skillet recipe delivers tender, golden-brown chicken paired with a rich, glossy sauce made from cherry tomatoes, tomato paste, and butter, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Grated Parmesan for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance their flavor before cooking.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes soften and begin to break down.
- Add Tomato Paste and Broth: Stir in the tomato paste and chicken broth (or water). Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish Sauce and Combine: Reduce the heat to low and add cubed butter, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes glossy and smooth. Stir in fresh chopped basil, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the chicken to coat it well.
- Serve: Serve the garlic basil chicken hot, optionally topped with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Notes
- Great served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best natural sweetness and flavor in the sauce.
- Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference for a milder or stronger garlic flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
