There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a homemade meal, especially after a chaotic day. Just the other evening, with dinner creeping up and the fridge nearly bare, I found myself longing for something flavorful yet simple. That’s when I decided to whip up this delightful Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce—a dish that turned my kitchen into a fragrant oasis and filled my home with warmth. With only seven fresh ingredients, it captures the essence of summer and is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Picture tender chicken enveloped in a glossy, buttery tomato sauce, aromatic garlic adding depth, and fresh basil brightening every bite. This meal is not just quick to prepare; it’s a crowd-pleaser that makes you feel like you’re dining at a fancy restaurant without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this recipe that promises delightful flavors and leaves you wanting more!
Why is Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce a Must-Try?
Simple, yet delectable: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned chefs.
Bursting with flavor: The combination of fresh basil and garlic ensures each bite is aromatic and satisfying.
Quick cooking time: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
Versatile base: Pair it with pasta, zucchini noodles, or even rice for a unique twist.
Family-friendly appeal: This dish is sure to please everyone at the table, making dinner a delightful experience!
Looking for more easy meal ideas? Check out our easy weeknight dinners for inspiration!
Garlic Basil Chicken Ingredients
• Simple and fresh ingredients for a delightful meal.
For the Chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star of the dish, tender and easy to cook.
For the Sauce
- Fresh tomatoes – These provide sweetness and balance the dish; Roma tomatoes are ideal.
- Garlic – Essential for aromatic depth; fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
- Butter – Adds richness and creaminess; opt for high-quality, European-style butter for the best taste.
- Olive oil – Used for cooking the chicken; avocado oil can be a great substitute.
- Fresh basil – Brightens the dish with its vibrant flavor; if not available, dried herbs can work, although with less intensity.
Serving Base
- Pasta – Provides heartiness; zucchini noodles make for a delicious low-carb alternative.
This Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home!
How to Make Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce
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Prepare Ingredients: Chop your garlic, basil, and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Don’t forget to season the chicken with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor before cooking.
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Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
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Make Sauce: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet. In the same skillet, add the chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Then, add the chopped tomatoes and butter, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and combines well.
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Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the fresh basil. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated in that luscious sauce.
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Serve: Serve your delicious garlic basil chicken over cooked pasta or your preferred side. Feel free to garnish with extra basil for that lovely fresh touch!
Optional: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese enhances the flavors beautifully.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the sauce cools slightly before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. This will maintain the dish’s creamy texture.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve reheated Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce over freshly cooked pasta or your favorite veggies for a delicious meal!
Expert Tips for Garlic Basil Chicken
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Quality Matters: Use fresh ingredients whenever possible, especially garlic and tomatoes, to enhance the flavor of your Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure you cook chicken in batches if necessary; overcrowding the skillet can lead to uneven cooking and less browning.
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Adjust to Taste: Feel free to modify the amount of basil or garlic according to your personal preference; letting your palate guide you can create a truly personalized dish.
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Pasta Perfection: Cook your pasta al dente to add the right texture and hold up against the rich sauce; it should be firm yet tender.
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Storage Savvy: Store leftover Garlic Basil Chicken in an airtight container; this dish reheats well, so don’t hesitate to enjoy it for lunch the next day!
What to Serve with Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce?
Picture a delightful dinner that will enchant your friends and family, elevating the humble chicken to a luxurious feast.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture of mashed potatoes beautifully complements the creamy tomato sauce, soaking up every delightful drop.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy and warm, garlic bread adds a crispy contrast to the smooth sauce, making each bite an indulgent experience.
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Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette balances the dish’s richness, providing a refreshing crunch that brightens the meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: Sweet roasted bell peppers and zucchini bring colorful flavors and vibrant textures to the plate, enhancing the overall presentation.
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Zucchini Noodles: For a light twist, serve the chicken over zucchini noodles, offering a refreshing alternative that highlights the dish’s fresh ingredients.
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Cold White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal’s bright flavors, making it feel like a perfect night out at an Italian bistro.
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Tiramisu: End on a sweet note with a slice of creamy, coffee-flavored tiramisu—its lightness provides a lovely contrast to the savory chicken.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the chicken, garlic, and chopped tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The sauce can also be made ahead and enjoyed for up to 3 days; just refrigerate it in a sealed container. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the chicken as instructed and reheat the sauce gently on the stove until warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort after a busy day!
Garlic Basil Chicken Variations
Customize your Garlic Basil Chicken with endless possibilities that inspire delightful flavors and textures.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a rich, vegan-friendly sauce that maintains creaminess.
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Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a quick yet satisfying variation, offering unique flavors and textures.
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Leafy Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the sauce-making phase for an extra nutritional punch and vibrant color.
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Spicy Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a zesty kick that tantalizes your taste buds.
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Herb Mix: Experiment with oregano or thyme alongside basil for an herby twist that elevates the dish.
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Citrus Twist: Squeeze in fresh lemon juice just before serving for a bright, refreshing contrast to the rich sauce.
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Pasta Alternatives: Swap regular pasta for zucchini noodles or quinoa for a gluten-free twist that’s just as filling.
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Nutty Finish: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds before serving for an added crunch and nutty depth.
Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe tomatoes for this dish?
Absolutely! Look for tomatoes that feel slightly firm but yield to gentle pressure. They should have vibrant color without dark spots or blemishes. Roma tomatoes are recommended as they provide the perfect sweetness and acidity for the sauce.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
After enjoying your Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce, let leftovers cool slightly and then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. For optimal flavor, remember to ensure the sauce cools before sealing to avoid moisture buildup!
Can I freeze this recipe? How?
Very much so! To freeze the chicken and sauce, allow the dish to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. When reheating, do so in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the creamy texture.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
I often recommend allowing the sauce to simmer a bit longer to thicken. If it’s still too thin, you can create a slurry by mixing a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and adding it to the simmering sauce, stirring until it thickens. This will give your sauce a luscious consistency!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this dish?
Definitely! This Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce contains chicken and dairy from the butter, so it’s essential to consider dietary restrictions. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute butter with dairy-free margarine or olive oil. If you’re serving this to pets, avoid giving them any of the seasoned chicken, as garlic can be harmful to dogs in larger quantities. Always check with a vet if you’re unsure!
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh for this recipe?
Certainly! If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute it with dried basil. However, the flavor will be less intense, so use about one teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil required in the recipe. Add it during the sauce-making step to allow the flavors to meld.
Savory Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chop your garlic, basil, and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken from the skillet. In the same skillet, add chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Then, add chopped tomatoes and butter, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, add fresh basil, and toss everything together gently.
- Serve over cooked pasta or preferred side and garnish with extra basil.