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Baked Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe

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3.8 from 46 reviews

A deliciously creamy baked tomato basil chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breasts baked in a savory tomato cream sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and fresh basil, topped with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that combines rich flavors with wholesome ingredients.

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
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste (double concentrated)
  • 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Toppings

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and position the oven rack in the top third to ensure even baking and proper browning of the chicken.
  2. Prepare chicken: Arrange the chicken breasts side-by-side in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Season them evenly with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to build a flavorful base.
  3. Mix sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, dry white wine, tomato paste, cornstarch, dried oregano, and minced garlic until the sauce is smooth and consistent.
  4. Add sauce to chicken: Pour the creamy sauce mixture evenly around the chicken breasts in the baking dish without covering the chicken on top; this helps the sauce infuse into the meat as it bakes.
  5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Begin checking early as cooking time can vary based on oven and chicken thickness.
  6. Add cheese and basil: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil over and around the chicken, adding most directly on top to enhance flavor and presentation. Stir the sauce gently and spoon it over the chicken breasts.
  7. Rest and serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes to let juices redistribute. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through to 165°F for food safety.
  • Double concentrated tomato paste adds intense tomato flavor; plain tomato paste can be used but may yield a milder taste.
  • Wine can be omitted or replaced with extra chicken broth if preferred.
  • Resting the chicken after baking ensures juicier meat.
  • This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or a side of steamed vegetables.