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Baked Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe

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3.9 from 11 reviews

This Baked Tomato Basil Chicken recipe features tender boneless skinless chicken breasts baked in a creamy tomato basil sauce, topped with freshly grated parmesan and fragrant basil. It’s an easy, flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner that combines Italian-inspired seasonings with a rich, comforting sauce.

  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts, 8 oz each)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Sauce

  • 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste (double concentrated preferred)
  • 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Toppings

  • 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil (sliced or torn)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and position the oven rack in the top third.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Arrange the chicken breasts side-by-side in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Season evenly with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Make Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, tomato paste, cornstarch, dried oregano, and minced garlic until smooth and well combined.
  4. Add Sauce and Bake: Pour the prepared sauce evenly around the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, checking earlier if your chicken breasts are thinner.
  5. Add Cheese and Basil: Remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese and fresh basil on top of the chicken and stir the sauce a bit, spooning it over the chicken breasts to coat.
  6. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes in the baking dish before serving to allow flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Notes

  • Use fresh basil for the best flavor, but dried basil can be substituted in a pinch.
  • Double concentrated tomato paste provides a richer tomato flavor.
  • Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature; thicker breasts may need more time.
  • Resting the chicken allows juices and sauce to redistribute for better texture and taste.
  • You can substitute heavy cream with half and half for a lighter version, but the sauce will be less rich.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American