Savory Baked Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe for Ultimate Flavor

Ah, baked chicken—the epitome of comfort food! I remember cozy evenings at my grandma’s table, where the heavenly aroma of baked chicken mingled with the scents of fresh basil and ripe tomatoes wafting through the air. Those were nights filled with hearty laughs and storytelling. Now, every time I whip up this BAKED TOMATO BASIL CHICKEN, I’m instantly transported back to that love-filled kitchen of my childhood.

This dish is a perfect blend of juicy chicken, vibrant tomatoes, and fresh basil, bringing the sun-drenched flavors of summer right to your dinner table. Whether it’s a weeknight gathering or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to impress without stressing you out!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Weeknight Dinner: Simple steps for busy afternoons.
• Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients, it won’t break the bank.
• Comforting Flavors: Savory, herby goodness that feels like a warm hug.
• Healthier Option: Packed with lean protein and vibrant vegetables.

Ingredients

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe will serve about four people, but feel free to scale it up if you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers for lunch!

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or any tomatoes you have on hand)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (stems removed for a cleaner taste)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds a delightful punch!)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (if fresh isn’t available)

Tip: Always choose the ripest tomatoes you can find for a burst of flavor!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to make some magic? Let’s get cooking!

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, by the time you’re ready, the oven is all set to work its magic.
2. Prep the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of oregano on both sides. This crucial step adds flavor right from the start!
3. Sear the Chicken: Over medium-high heat, place the chicken in the skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Don’t rush this step; it helps seal in the juices. Use tongs so you don’t poke holes in the chicken!
4. Add the Garlic: Once the chicken is beautifully seared, add the minced garlic and sauté it quickly (about 30 seconds) until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn—burnt garlic is the worst!
5. Mix ‘Em Up: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped basil to the skillet. Stir gently to mix everything up, letting those flavors mingle.
6. Top It Off: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. It’s okay to be generous here because who doesn’t love an ooey-gooey cheese pull?
7. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The cheese should be bubbly and golden brown.
8. Let It Rest: Once done, allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute into the chicken, making it even juicier!

Pro Tip: While it’s tempting to dive straight into the dish, that little resting period makes all the difference. Trust me!

Pro Tips & Variations

This recipe is ridiculously versatile! Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a pinch of smoked paprika for depth.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for additional color and nutrition.
• Cheese Swap: If you’re not a mozzarella fan, try feta for a tangy twist!
• Low-Carb Option: Serve it over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

Have fun with it! Your kitchen is your canvas.

Serving Suggestions

Picture this: a comforting plate of baked tomato basil chicken served alongside a fluffy bed of rice or a fresh garden salad. It’s perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce. I love having some crusty bread on hand to mop up those delicious juices—don’t waste a drop!

And why not enjoy it with a glass of white wine? The crispy chicken and vibrant sauce pair beautifully with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc. You could also enjoy it for breakfast with a side of scrambled eggs for a delicious twist!

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. If you want to freeze it, you can do so in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just remember to label your containers with the date!

When you’re ready to reheat, the best way is to warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but I like to add a splash of water to keep the moisture intact.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Absolutely, but fresh basil has a vibrancy that dried simply can’t replicate. If using dried, about 1 tablespoon should suffice, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

What can I serve with baked tomato basil chicken?

This dish is versatile! You can go with pasta, rice, or a simple green salad. My favorite side is some roasted veggies—they add a good crunch and extra nutrients!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking step and then store it in the fridge. Just make sure to cover it well. When you’re ready, pop it in the oven and bake as directed!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure your cheese and any additional ingredients are gluten-free certified if you have strict dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited to try this BAKED TOMATO BASIL CHICKEN as I am to share it! It’s a hug in a dish that brings the charm of home-cooked meals to your kitchen. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Feel free to drop a comment below or share your own twist on this comforting classic. Happy cooking, my friend!

Savory Baked Tomato Basil Chicken Recipe for Ultimate Flavor

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• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Delicious baked chicken with tomato & basil, perfect for flavor lovers. Try this easy recipe for a savory meal that delights every time! (153 chars)

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

3 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon dried oregano

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large oven-safe skillet, drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of oregano on both sides.

Over medium-high heat, sear the chicken in the skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped basil to the skillet. Stir gently to mix.

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

A delicious and comforting baked chicken recipe with juicy chicken, vibrant tomatoes, and fresh basil, perfect for any occasion.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 35g

Keywords: chicken recipe, baked chicken, tomato basil chicken, dinner ideas, easy chicken recipes