30-Minute Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Thighs
Tender chicken thighs are seared to perfection and simmered in a creamy tomato basil sauce enriched with heavy cream and fresh herbs. The fresh tomatoes are blended smooth for a silky base while garlic adds aromatic depth. Finished with grated parmesan cheese, this comforting dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors in under 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something special but don't have hours to cook. The combination of fresh basil and rich cream transforms simple ingredients into an elegant meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Remove seeds and liquid from tomatoes then blend until smooth
- 2
Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper
- 3
Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat and cook chicken until no longer pink, 5 to 7 minutes per side, then remove to plate
- 4
Add tomatoes and garlic to pan, season with salt and pepper, and simmer 5 minutes to thicken
- 5
Stir in cream and basil
- 6
Return chicken to pan to heat through, about 2 minutes
- 7
Top with grated parmesan
Tips
Remove as much tomato seeds and liquid as possible for a smoother sauce texture
Let chicken rest after searing to retain juices when added back to the sauce
Use freshly grated parmesan for better melting and flavor than pre-shredded
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in airtight container
Can prep tomato mixture up to 1 day ahead and refrigerate
Serve hot over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread
Common Mistakes
Don't skip removing tomato seeds or sauce will be watery
Don't overcook chicken after returning to pan to avoid drying out
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, use 2 1/2 cups of good quality canned diced tomatoes, drained. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
What if I don't have heavy cream?
Half and half works but the sauce will be thinner. You can also use milk with a tablespoon of flour whisked in to help thicken.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.