If you have been searching for a comforting yet vibrant dinner option, this Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s a luscious combination of tender chicken breasts perfectly seared to golden perfection, bathed in a rich tomato butter sauce infused with garlicky goodness and the fresh zing of basil. Every bite bursts with layers of flavor that feel both indulgent and wholesome, making it a perfect meal to wow your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a dish full of flavor and satisfying textures. Each component plays a vital role, from the juicy cherry tomatoes adding freshness and color to the buttery sauce that brings everything together with silky richness.

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The hearty base, tender and perfect for soaking up the sauce.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the chicken and sauce.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the seasoning.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For a golden, crisp sear on the chicken.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with its signature aromatic punch.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Introduces juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
½ cup tomato sauce: Forms the flavorful base of the luscious butter sauce.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates the incredibly smooth, rich texture that coats every bite.
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Brings a fresh herbal brightness that lifts the dish.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A touch of heat to awaken the sauce without overpowering it.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a savory finishing touch for extra depth and umami.

How to Make Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt and pepper—that’s the foundation for amazing flavor. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the chicken in the hot oil and cook it for 6 to 7 minutes per side. The goal is a gorgeous golden crust that locks in all the juicy tenderness. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside to rest while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Build the Garlic Basil Tomato Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium, then add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Stir it around for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them until they soften and start to burst, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step infuses the sauce with fresh sweetness and a hint of acidity. Stir in the tomato sauce and the butter, letting the butter melt completely and the sauce thicken slightly to a luscious consistency.

Step 3: Finish with Fresh Basil and Pepper Flakes

Once the butter is melted into the sauce, fold in the chopped fresh basil leaves and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a subtle kick. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon the sauce generously over the top and let everything simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle and the chicken to heat through perfectly.

How to Serve Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

To really elevate your presentation and flavor profile, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken right before serving. It adds a nutty, salty depth that partners beautifully with the butter and tomato elements. A few extra basil leaves scattered on top provide a fresh, inviting look and a fragrant herbal note.

Side Dishes

This dish shines with simple but delicious sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy bed of polenta make excellent companions, offering a neutral canvas for the buttery tomato sauce. For a lighter contrast, serve with steamed green beans or a crisp mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to brighten the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, serve the chicken atop a nest of freshly cooked pasta tossed lightly in olive oil and Parmesan, turning the tomato butter sauce into a luscious pasta topping as well. Alternatively, plating the dish family-style with crusty bread nearby encourages everyone to scoop up every last bit of the heavenly sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The chicken and sauce will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal just as delightful.

Freezing

If you want to save this meal for longer, freeze the cooled chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container. It will maintain excellent quality for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat so the sauce doesn’t separate. You can add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much. Microwave reheating works fine too—just cover loosely and heat in short increments, stirring occasionally for even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Absolutely! Canned diced tomatoes make a great substitute if fresh cherry tomatoes aren’t available. Just drain them slightly to avoid too much liquid before adding to the skillet.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free tomato sauce and Parmesan cheese.

What can I do to make this recipe spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of smoked paprika for a different smoky heat. Fresh chopped chili peppers can also be sautéed with the garlic for an extra kick.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

You can make the tomato butter sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently, but it’s best to cook and sear the chicken fresh to retain its juicy texture and golden crust.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the chicken?

Slow and gentle reheating on the stovetop with a splash of liquid works best. Avoid high heat, which can toughen the meat and cause the sauce to separate.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser with its luscious sauce, fresh herbs, and tender chicken that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, it’s approachable yet impressive in every bite. I can’t wait for you to make it and enjoy every mouthwatering forkful!

Garlic Basil Chicken with Tomato Butter Sauce Recipe