I still remember the exact afternoon when Tomato Basil Baked Chicken found its way into my kitchen rotation. It was one of those days when I wanted something nourishing, straightforward, and a little special—no fuss, no complicated steps, just honest food that hits the spot. I had just come back from a bustling farmers’ market with a bag full of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, and it felt like the perfect moment to embrace this cozy, oven-baked delight.
This dish quickly felt more than just a recipe; it became my go-to for those busy weeknights when I needed nourishing, home-cooked food without the stress. The beauty of Tomato Basil Baked Chicken is how it fits gently into real life—no complicated rules, just simple ingredients that come together to make a flavorful Italian chicken dish that the whole family loves.
One of my favorite things about this baked chicken with tomato and basil is how flexible it feels. I’ve tweaked the herbs, added a little mozzarella occasionally, or used boneless skinless breasts when I want something lighter. What stays consistent is that warmth and freshness the basil and tomato bring, making every bite feel like a light celebration.
If you’re a fellow home cook looking for recipes that nourish without overwhelm, this Tomato Basil Baked Chicken has you covered. It’s practical enough for weeknight dinners but special enough for guests. As you read on, I’ll share all my favorite tips and tricks so you can make this one your own in the simplest, most satisfying way.
What You’ll Need:
Here’s a straightforward ingredient list for your Tomato Basil Baked Chicken. I keep it simple because good food doesn’t have to be complicated.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds) No stress if you don’t have breasts—you can swap in chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved You’ll find these in the regular produce section. I love using fresh red tomatoes, but out of season, canned diced tomatoes work too.
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped If fresh basil isn’t around, dried basil works in a pinch—just use about one tablespoon.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Garlic powder can substitute, especially for a quicker prep.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil This keeps the herb roasted chicken with tomato beautifully moist.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional) Adds a subtle Italian vibe but totally okay to skip!
- Salt and pepper to taste Keep it balanced—you can always add a little more after baking.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan (optional) I love adding extra cheese for a golden finish, but it’s just as delicious without.
Budget-friendly notes: This Tomato Basil Baked Chicken stays wallet-friendly by focusing on seasonal produce and pantry basics. You might already have garlic, olive oil, and oregano on hand, which makes this a no-fuss option.
Prep shortcut: Halving tomatoes and chopping basil ahead of time can save precious minutes on busy days.
Storage tip: Leftovers keep well covered in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently to keep the chicken tender and juicy.
Let’s Make It Together!
Ready to dive into making your own Tomato Basil Baked Chicken? I’ll walk you through each step like we’re cooking side-by-side.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature gives your oven baked chicken breast a lovely golden crust without drying it out.
- Lightly oil a baking dish—this keeps everything cozy without sticking. I usually use whatever size holds the chicken in a single layer comfortably.
- Place your chicken breasts in the dish and season them generously with salt, pepper, and the minced garlic.
- Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes over and around the chicken. Toss the tomatoes with olive oil, dried oregano if you’re using it, and a pinch more salt.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil on top. Don’t be shy—this basil chicken recipe depends on generous herbs for brightness.
- If you want to add cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the chicken and tomatoes now.
- Slide your baking dish into the oven. In my kitchen, this Tomato Basil Baked Chicken usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes. It’s a great time to set the table or prep a simple side like a greens salad or roasted broccoli.
- About halfway in, I like to spoon some of the tomato juices over the chicken. It helps keep everything juicy and flavorful.
- When your chicken is done, it should register 165°F in the thickest part (if you use a thermometer). The tomatoes should be softened and fragrant. Your kitchen will smell wonderful by this point—I swear that smell is half the joy.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. It helps keep the juices locked in.
Don’t worry if your Tomato Basil Baked Chicken looks rustic—that’s part of the charm. I used to overcomplicate my baked chicken with tomato dishes, thinking I needed to do more, but simpler truly is better.
How I Love to Serve This!
This Tomato Basil Baked Chicken becomes a complete meal when I add a side that complements its fresh, vibrant flavors.
I often serve it with:
- Lightly dressed mixed greens or arugula salad for a crisp counterbalance.
- Simple roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus, which roast easily while the chicken cooks.
- A side of whole-grain couscous or quinoa to soak up those lovely tomato juices.
You might also enjoy pairing this herb roasted chicken with tomato with some crusty bread to soak up all those delicious flavors.
For easy weeknights, this basil chicken recipe works beautifully. I’ve also brought it over to friends’ homes, and it’s always a hit—such an approachable Italian chicken dish that feels special but not fussy.
When I have leftovers? I chop the chicken up and toss it into salads or make a quick sandwich. Leftover tomatoes get stirred into scrambled eggs or soups the next day.
I’ve even tried seasonal variations by adding roasted peppers in the summer or swapping basil for fresh oregano in the fall. Every version feels like a fresh twist.
Common Questions Answered
I get tons of questions from fellow home cooks about this Tomato Basil Baked Chicken, so here’s a little FAQ from my kitchen to yours.
Can I make this Tomato Basil Baked Chicken ahead for meal prep?
Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge and reheats nicely. Just cover it tightly and reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the chicken juicy.What if I don’t have fresh basil?
No worries—dried basil works, though fresh has that bright finish. You can also swap with fresh oregano or parsley if you have those.Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs add more richness and stay moist a little better in the oven.How can I adjust the flavor if I like it spicier?
Try adding crushed red pepper flakes before baking or a dash of smoked paprika for warmth.Is this a gluten-free dish?
Yes, naturally! Just be mindful of any sides or additions.What’s the best way to store leftovers?
An airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days works great. Separate any sides to keep textures fresh.Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Just use a larger baking dish or two and keep an eye on cook time as it may vary slightly.
If you want more flavor inspiration after trying this dish, check out the Chicken Parmesan Recipe (with Video) or my take on Slow Cooker Greek Chicken Recipe for a change of pace.
Final Thoughts
This Tomato Basil Baked Chicken has earned a special place in my kitchen routine. It’s that dependable dish I turn to when I want comfort without complication. I love how it’s flexible, approachable, and genuinely nourishing.
My Favorite Tomato Basil Baked Chicken Tips:
- Always use fresh basil if you can; it makes a huge difference.
- Don’t skip basting the tomatoes—those juices are pure magic.
- Let the chicken rest after baking for juicy results.
Some of my favorite variations include adding mozzarella for a melty finish, swapping chicken breasts for thighs for extra richness, or stirring in a little balsamic glaze after baking for a tangy twist. I usually come back to the classic version though—it just feels right every time.
I hope this Tomato Basil Baked Chicken finds a cozy spot in your kitchen too. Remember, cooking doesn’t have to be a stress-filled task; it’s about nourishing yourself and enjoying the process. Give it a try, tweak it to your tastes, and make it your own. You’ve got this!
For more simple, nourishing meals that fit into your real life, you might enjoy my Tomato Basil Noodle Soup or the cozy Chicken and Dumplings Hearty Comfort.
Happy cooking, friend!
Tomato Basil Baked Chicken
A flavorful and healthy baked chicken dish topped with fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, perfect for a simple weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic, and dried oregano.
- Top each chicken breast with sliced tomatoes and sprinkle chopped basil over the top.
- If using, sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and tomatoes.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, serve with a side of garlic roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.