If you have been on the lookout for a vibrant, flavorful, and quick weeknight meal, this Simple Italian Basil Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. It takes just 20 minutes to whip up, yet delivers a delightful blend of fresh basil, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tender chicken breasts infused with classic Italian seasonings. Each bite feels like a cozy hug from an Italian kitchen, offering balanced flavors and textures that make it a perfect go-to dish when you want something delicious without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this dish right hinges on using simple, fresh, and quality ingredients. Every component here plays a vital role—whether it’s the olive oil providing richness, basil contributing freshness, or garlic bringing that unmistakable Italian aroma.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These cook quickly and soak up the flavors beautifully without being greasy.
- Olive oil: A staple in Italian cooking, it adds smoothness and helps create that golden sear on the chicken.
- Garlic, minced: Adds depth and a fragrant punch to the sauce.
- Cherry tomatoes, halved: Their sweetness and juiciness balance out the savory notes perfectly.
- Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
- Dried oregano: Introduces that classic herbaceous note that screams Italian kitchen.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Give the dish a hint of gentle spiciness if you like a little kick.
- Fresh basil, chopped: The star herb that lifts the entire recipe with bright, aromatic freshness.
- Balsamic vinegar: Offers tangy sweetness that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- Shredded Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a creamy, salty finish whenever you want to make the dish feel extra special.
How to Make Simple Italian Basil Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season Your Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry to ensure a nice golden crust. Then generously season them with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. This simple seasoning creates the perfect base that brings out the savory flavor of the chicken without masking the fresh ingredients you’ll add later.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown color and are cooked through. The searing locks in juiciness and adds a wonderful texture you’ll love. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside for the tomato basil magic.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Tomato Basil Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds until it releases that mouthwatering fragrance. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes along with red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Let everything cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and start bubbling, turning the skillet into a vibrant, colorful sauce base bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Finish the Dish with Fresh Basil and Balsamic Vinegar
Now stir in the balsamic vinegar and the freshly chopped basil, letting the sauce simmer for another minute. This step brightens the dish with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes while infusing it with the herbaceous aroma of basil—the heart of this Simple Italian Basil Chicken Recipe.
Step 5: Combine and Melt
Return your seared chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the luscious tomato basil mixture over the top. If you’re in the mood for something extra indulgent, sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese on each breast and let it gently melt into the warm sauce, creating a beautiful cheesy finish that’s so irresistible you might just want seconds.
How to Serve Simple Italian Basil Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are the perfect finishing touch—scatter a few on top for an added burst of color and freshness. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper also amps up both look and taste.
Side Dishes
You really can’t go wrong here. This chicken pairs wonderfully with simple pasta tossed in olive oil or butter to soak up all those gorgeous juices. Or, for a lighter option, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. Even creamy mashed potatoes or steamed rice make excellent companions, soaking up every bit of that flavorful sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner that wows, present the chicken on a rustic wooden board scattered with extra cherry tomatoes and basil sprigs. You could also stuff the chicken into a sandwich with fresh mozzarella and roasted peppers or turn this recipe into a vibrant pasta topping for a colorful twirl on an Italian classic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover chicken and sauce into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making lunchtime or next-day dinner a breeze with minimal effort.
Freezing
This Simple Italian Basil Chicken Recipe freezes well if you’re planning meals ahead. Wrap the chicken and sauce tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags. For best flavor and texture, use within 2 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or broth can help maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible, so you truly preserve the fresh flavors and tender texture that make this dish a favorite.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will offer a more tender, juicy option and carry the flavors beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is the red pepper flakes requirement mandatory?
Not at all! Red pepper flakes are optional and primarily add a subtle spicy kick. If you prefer a milder dish or are serving kids, feel free to leave them out.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken with thick slices of grilled tofu or eggplant. The tomato basil sauce pairs wonderfully with vegetarian proteins, though the cooking times may vary.
What’s the best way to chop basil for this recipe?
To retain basil’s vibrant flavor and prevent bruising, gently roll the leaves into a loose cigar shape and finely slice, a technique known as chiffonade. This releases the herb’s oils without turning it bitter.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
For this recipe, fresh basil really shines and makes a huge difference in taste and aroma. If you must use dried, add it earlier in the cooking process and increase quantity slightly, but fresh is highly recommended whenever possible.
Final Thoughts
Trying out this Simple Italian Basil Chicken Recipe is like inviting a slice of Italy into your kitchen without any complicated steps. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward prep, you get a dish that feels both special and satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend meal, this recipe promises comfort, flavor, and plenty of smiles around the table. Go ahead—give it a whirl, and you might find it becoming one of your new favorite go-to meals!
Print
Simple Italian Basil Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and flavorful Italian-inspired basil chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breasts sautéed with garlic, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil, finished with a splash of balsamic vinegar and optional Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a light and satisfying dinner in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Tomato Basil Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Season chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano on both sides.
- Cook chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Cook tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.
- Add vinegar and basil: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and fresh chopped basil, cooking for an additional minute to meld the flavors.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the tomato and basil mixture on top.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the chicken and allow it to melt slightly from the residual heat.
- Serve: Serve the chicken warm alongside pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor; garlic powder will change the taste.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a rich, savory touch.
- Make sure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Can be paired nicely with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
