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Basil Tomato Butter Chicken

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Tender chicken simmered in a velvety butter-tomato sauce with fragrant basil. Basil Tomato Butter Chicken is rich, creamy, and bursting with fresh flavors—perfect with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Ingredients

  • Chicken Thighs or Breasts: 2 pounds – Juicy and tender protein base.
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons – For searing the chicken to golden perfection.
  • Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons – Adds richness and silky texture.
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced – Aromatic base of the sauce.
  • Yellow Onion: 1 medium, finely diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
  • Crushed Tomatoes: 1 can (28 ounces) – Tangy, sweet sauce base.
  • Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons – Intensifies tomato flavor and thickens.
  • Fresh Basil Leaves: 1/2 cup, torn – Provides fresh, peppery brightness.
  • Heavy Cream (optional): 1/2 cup – For extra creamy texture.
  • Salt: 1 1/2 teaspoons – Enhances flavors throughout.
  • Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon – Adds depth and subtle heat.
  • Red Pepper Flakes (optional): 1/2 teaspoon – Adds a gentle spicy kick.
  • Parmesan Cheese (optional): For garnish – Adds nutty, salty finish.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Equipment: Warm a skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and sear chicken until golden, then set aside.
  3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In the same pan, melt butter. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft, then stir in tomato paste.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Add crushed tomatoes, seasonings, and bring to a simmer. Return chicken to the pan.
  5. Cook to Perfection: Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked through. Stir in cream if using.
  6. Finishing Touches: Tear basil leaves into the sauce just before serving.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Plate with rice, pasta, or bread and garnish with Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Note: Add basil at the end for the freshest flavor.
  • Note: Use chicken thighs for the juiciest result.
  • Note: This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.