This Creamy Tomato Parmesan Chicken Bake is a rich and comforting oven-baked dish featuring juicy chicken breasts in a velvety tomato cream sauce. Infused with garlic, herbs, and finished with Parmesan cheese, it delivers bold Italian-inspired flavors with minimal effort.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
ุฅุถุงูุงุช / Additional Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How To Make Creamy Tomato Parmesan Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 3โ4 minutes per side until lightly golden. This adds extra flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, sautรฉ garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add crushed tomatoes, cream, basil, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Stir well and let it simmer for 3โ5 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble
Place the chicken in the baking dish and pour the sauce evenly over it.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25โ30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is bubbling.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Who Is This Recipe For?
- Busy families looking for a quick oven meal
- Fans of creamy, savory dishes
- Anyone who loves Italian-style flavors
- Home cooks wanting an easy but impressive dinner
Why Itโs Great
- โ Creamy, rich, and flavorful
- โ Easy one-dish recipe
- โ High in protein and satisfying
- โ Perfect with many side dishes
- โ Great for leftovers
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking dish
- Skillet (optional for searing)
- Mixing spoon
Storage
- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
- Freezer: Up to 2 months
- Reheating: Warm in oven or microwave with a splash of cream or water
FAQ
Can I skip searing the chicken?
Yes, but searing adds extra flavor and better texture.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutelyโtheyโre juicier and work very well.
What can I serve with this dish?
Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread are all great options.
Can I make it lighter?
You can substitute half-and-half or milk for the cream.
Conclusion
This Creamy Tomato Parmesan Chicken Bake is the perfect mix of comfort and simplicity. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, itโs a reliable go-to recipe for any night of the week.
