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To achieve a flavor-packed Baked Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, the first step is properly seasoning the chicken. Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels; this ensures better adherence of the seasoning and promotes a nice sear later on. Use a combination of salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs to season the chicken evenly. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper per pound of chicken. For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to the mix. Rub the seasoning thoroughly over the entire surface of the chicken to ensure every bite is delicious.

Baked Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

Discover the delightful flavors of Baked Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken, a recipe that combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich and creamy sauce made from fresh tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and vibrant basil. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is both comforting and elegant, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With simple preparation and minimal cooking techniques, you'll impress your family and friends with a meal that’s easy to make yet bursting with flavor. Enjoy serving it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for a truly satisfying dining experience.
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon dried basil (or 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

1 cup spinach leaves (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's hot enough for baking the chicken perfectly.

    Prepare Chicken: Take the chicken breasts and season them liberally on both sides with salt and black pepper. This enhances the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.

      Sear Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

        Cook Tomatoes and Garlic: In the same skillet, without cleaning it, add the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Cook these ingredients for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their flavorful juices into the pan.

          Make Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, dried basil, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the mixture well to combine, allowing it to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes. This will let the sauce thicken slightly and absorb the flavors from the tomatoes and garlic.

            Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. If you choose to include spinach, sprinkle the leaves over the top. Use a spoon to drizzle some of the creamy tomato sauce over the chicken.

              Bake: Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

                Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the skillet from the oven. Sprinkle the baked dish with fresh chopped basil for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot with your choice of pasta, rice, or crusty bread to make the most of that heavenly creamy sauce!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: For an elegant serving, place the chicken breasts on a plate, generously ladle the creamy sauce and tomatoes around them, and add a handful of fresh spinach for a pop of color. A light sprinkle of Parmesan on top before serving can elevate the dish’s appeal.