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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and position the oven rack in the top third.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American