I remember the first time my family asked for Tomato Basil Baked Chicken. It was a hectic weeknight, and I was scrambling to get dinner on the table. I knew I wanted something comforting but fresh, and this recipe came to mind. When I pulled out the oven roasted tomato basil chicken, everyone’s faces lit up. The combination of juicy chicken breast with tomato basil sauce filled the kitchen with warmth. It quickly became the meal my kids requested again and again.
This Tomato Basil Baked Chicken isn’t just about the flavor; it’s about the way it brings people together. Sitting around our table, sharing a meal that’s simple but feels special, is what cooking for family is all about. I love how this Italian herb chicken bake hits the balance between delicious and easy. Over time, I’ve perfected the recipe so it’s reliably moist baked chicken with fresh herbs every time. It’s the kind of dish that works for busy weeknights, but also shines when I want to treat my family.
If you’re looking for a recipe that turns ordinary chicken into a full-flavored Italian dinner without extra stress, this Tomato Basil Baked Chicken is for you. You’ll find it quickly becomes a favorite, just like in my home. Plus, it pairs beautifully with so many sides, from a green salad to creamy pasta.
You can also check out this delicious oven roasted tomato basil chicken for a fresh twist on tomato and herbs. For another chicken soup idea to round out your week, I highly recommend the Chicken Alfredo Soup.
Ready to welcome a new family favorite to your table? Let’s dive in, and soon you’ll see why Tomato Basil Baked Chicken is stealing hearts and appetites in kitchens everywhere.
What You’ll Need
Here’s the ingredient list for your Tomato Basil Baked Chicken, designed to keep things straightforward but full of flavor. Trust me, this Tomato Basil Baked Chicken ingredient list keeps things simple without sacrificing taste!

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (fresh and ripe work best)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for that signature Italian herb chicken bake flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, but recommended)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
For the best Tomato Basil Baked Chicken, I recommend using the freshest basil and tomatoes you can find. Fresh herbs make a big difference in flavor, especially in an Italian herb chicken bake. If you’re short on fresh basil, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried basil, but fresh brightens the dish. My family prefers when I use cherry tomatoes because they roast nicely and provide a sweet tang that complements the sauce.
You’ll find everything for this Tomato Basil Baked Chicken at your regular grocery store. Look for firm, plump chicken breasts and fragrant basil. If you want a twist, you can try substituting mozzarella with provolone or leaving the cheese out for a lighter dish. For dairy-free versions, skip the cheeses altogether.
Prepping ahead makes this dish easier to throw together. Mince garlic and chop basil in advance. I also like to halve my tomatoes the night before and keep them refrigerated. This little bit of prep makes your oven roasted tomato basil chicken come together quickly—perfect for busy nights when you want a wholesome meal without fuss.
How to Make It
Making Tomato Basil Baked Chicken is easier than it looks, and once you get the hang of it, you’ll have it down as one of your go-to family meals. This recipe typically takes me about 40 minutes to make from start to finish.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key for getting the perfect oven roasted tomato basil chicken texture.
- Prepare the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels to help lock in moisture. Season both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
- Sear the chicken. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat half the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Don’t worry if your Tomato Basil Baked Chicken looks a little raw now; it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Add the tomato basil sauce. Toss the cherry tomatoes and garlic in the remaining olive oil with a pinch of salt and pepper, then spoon onto and around the chicken breasts. Scatter fresh basil over everything.
- Bake uncovered. Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing while this Tomato Basil Baked Chicken cooks.
- Add cheeses for the last 5 minutes. Remove skillet, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top, then return to oven until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest before serving. Let your Tomato Basil Baked Chicken rest 5 minutes to keep it moist.
Here’s where I used to mess up my Tomato Basil Baked Chicken—trying to skip the searing step. Now I always remember it adds a great crust and helps seal in juices for moist baked chicken with fresh herbs. While your tomato basil baked chicken is cooking, you’ll have time to prepare a quick side like garlic bread or a green salad.
If your chicken takes a few minutes longer, that’s normal depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to check it’s 165°F inside. Don’t rush—well-cooked moist baked chicken with tomato and basil is worth the extra moment.
If you want to shake things up, try making this with bone-in chicken thighs. Just increase the baking time to 30 minutes or until cooked through. For more inspiration, this baked mozzarella stuffed chicken with tomato basil from Lemons & Zest is fantastic too.
Serving Ideas
Everyone reaches for seconds when Tomato Basil Baked Chicken comes out with all its fresh tomato and basil flavors. My family loves serving this dish with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a light pasta tossed with olive oil to soak up the juices.

This Tomato Basil Baked Chicken is perfect for those nights when you want something really satisfying but not too heavy. It’s also a great choice for weekend dinners or small celebrations where homemade Italian food feels festive.
For presentation, I like to garnish with a few whole basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. It makes the dish pop on the plate. If you have leftovers (which is rare!), this baked chicken with tomato and basil reheats wonderfully for lunches or quick dinners the next day.
You can also mix it up by adding olives or capers before baking for a tangy twist. Or try pairing the chicken breast with tomato basil sauce with a side of roasted vegetables or a crunchy salad for contrast.
If your family enjoys this dish, they might also love other tomato basil recipes like the Tomato Basil Noodle Soup or the savory Chili’s Chicken Enchilada Soup. These meals highlight fresh ingredients and are equally crowd-pleasers at my dinner table.
Your Questions Answered
Can I make this Tomato Basil Baked Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it up to a day in advance, keeping the chicken and the tomato basil sauce separate until baking. This helps keep it fresh. On busy days, prepping ingredients in advance makes dinner quicker.
What if I don’t have fresh basil for my Tomato Basil Baked Chicken?
Dried basil works in a pinch. Use about one-third the amount since it’s more concentrated. Adding dried basil to the tomato sauce before baking helps bring out the flavor.
How do I store leftover Tomato Basil Baked Chicken?
Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Is this recipe suitable for picky eaters?
Absolutely! My kids love it because it’s not spicy, and the fresh tomato and mozzarella make it familiar and tasty. You can always adjust herbs to suit your family’s tastes.
Can I swap chicken breasts for thighs?
Yes! Bone-in thighs make this even juicier but will need longer baking—about 30 minutes until internal temp is safe. I love the flavor boost thigh meat brings.
Can I add other herbs to my Tomato Basil Baked Chicken?
Definitely. Rosemary or parsley can add a nice touch. Dried Italian seasoning blends work well too.
Do I have to use cheese in this recipe?
No, skipping the mozzarella and Parmesan is fine if you want a dairy-free or lighter version. The chicken still tastes great with the tomato basil sauce.
If you want more tips on making the perfect chicken with fresh herbs, you can also check out this helpful post in a Facebook group where garlic tomato basil chicken recipes with balsamic glaze are shared by home cooks.
The Final Word
Tomato Basil Baked Chicken has earned its place in my recipe collection because it’s reliable, delicious, and brings my family together around the table. The juicy chicken combined with fresh tomato basil flavors makes it one of my favorite “comfort made fresh” meals.
My Tomato Basil Baked Chicken Tips:
1. Always sear the chicken first for moisture and flavor.
2. Use fresh herbs when you can—it really brightens up the dish.
3. Let the chicken rest after baking to lock in juices for moist results.
I’ve tried several versions of this dish. My family loves the classic oven roasted tomato basil chicken with mozzarella. For a special occasion, I make a version stuffed with mozzarella and basil (similar to this baked mozzarella stuffed chicken). My husband enjoys it with extra Parmesan and black pepper, while the kids prefer it mild without extra herbs.
I hope you’ll make Tomato Basil Baked Chicken your own and create new family favorites. It’s a recipe that fits on busy nights but shines for dinner guests. When the aromas fill your kitchen and your family asks for seconds, you’ll know this one is a keeper.
If you’re looking to try similar comforting meals, check out the Chicken Parmesan Recipe (with Video) for a classic Italian dish made simple. And don’t forget to save some Tomato Basil Baked Chicken for leftovers—they’re delicious through the week!
Cooking for your family doesn’t need to be complicated to be special. Warm, simple meals like Tomato Basil Baked Chicken remind us that good food brings everyone closer, plate by plate. I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try and love the meal memories you’ll make.
Tomato Basil Baked Chicken
A flavorful and easy-to-make baked chicken dish featuring fresh tomatoes and aromatic basil, perfect for a wholesome 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 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and season both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.
- In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.
- Spread the tomato and basil mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, serve this dish over a bed of cooked quinoa or whole-grain pasta and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves.

