This Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet is a win for dinner! Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich and creamy sauce with fresh tomatoes and basil. Yum!
It’s quick to make, and you can even serve it over pasta or rice for a full meal. I love how the flavors come together in just one pan—fewer dishes for me to wash! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best for tenderness and flavor. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but be sure not to overcook them, as they can dry out.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives this dish its luxurious thickness. For a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk could work, but the sauce may be thinner. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free substitute!
Canned Crushed Tomatoes: If you’re out of crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce works in a pinch, but you might want to reduce it slightly to thicken. Fresh diced tomatoes can also add a fresh flavor, just be sure to cook them longer.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty and nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan alternative) would be good substitutes.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for that aromatic flavor! Dried basil can be used in its place but use less, about 1 tsp, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right?
Cooking chicken to perfection can be tricky, but here are some tips to master the technique:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken; this helps to achieve a nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: chicken is cooked through at 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This keeps it juicy by allowing the juices to redistribute.
How Do I Make the Sauce Creamy and Flavorful?
The sauce is where the magic happens! Follow these steps for the best creamy texture and taste:
- After sautéing garlic, stir in the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream, and simmer to thicken. The simmering is crucial to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring to achieve a smooth sauce. Don’t rush it!
- Incorporate wild flavors like fresh spinach and basil for a burst of freshness toward the end of cooking.
These simple tips and ingredient choices will help you create a delicious and comforting Meal! Enjoy!
Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Chicken & Seasoning:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For The Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For The Greens:
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Optional Seasoning:
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Time Needed:
This dish will take you about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs all over with salt and pepper. This adds flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin-side down if they have skin. Cook until they’re golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per side. When they’re done, set the chicken aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until you can smell the rich garlic aroma—be careful not to burn it!
4. Combine Cream and Tomatoes:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
5. Add Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese slowly, mixing until it has melted smoothly into the sauce. Yum!
6. Add the Greens:
Mix in the fresh spinach leaves and chopped basil. Stir until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2 minutes.
7. Nestle in the Chicken:
Return the chicken thighs back to the skillet, nestling them in the creamy sauce. Make sure to spoon the sauce over the chicken to coat it!
8. Final Seasoning:
If you’re using Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, sprinkle them in now. Allow everything to simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to meld those delicious flavors.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your dish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves, if you like. Serve hot, over your favorite pasta, rice, or with a crusty piece of bread to soak up that yummy sauce!
Enjoy this creamy, flavorful chicken skillet recipe—it’s simple, quick, and oh-so-delicious!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting. Pat it dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure better browning.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with plant-based protein options such as tofu or tempeh. For a hearty vegetable version, consider using zucchini or mushrooms instead, adjusting the cooking time till they’re tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to refresh the sauce.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk or a cashew cream. Just keep in mind that using lighter options may result in a thinner sauce.
