This Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines juicy chicken with rich creamy tomato sauce and fresh basil. It’s a cozy dish that’s sure to impress!
Who doesn’t love a meal that cooks in one pan? Less mess means more time for dessert! I like to serve it over pasta or rice for a yummy, filling dinner.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor. If you prefer chicken breasts, they work too but may need less cooking time. You can also use tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based option.
Crushed Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes give the sauce a nice texture. If you don’t have them, tomato sauce is a fine substitute. Fresh tomatoes can also be used, just ensure they are ripe and juicy; you might need to puree them a bit.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, swap out heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like coconut cream. It still gives that creamy texture while being a bit healthier or dairy-free.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is the best for flavor. If you don’t have it, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative that adds a cheesy taste.
Fresh Basil: If fresh basil isn’t available, dried basil can work. Use about a teaspoon but add it earlier so it becomes aromatic. Other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can also be a nice touch.
How Can I Perfectly Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic seems simple but can easily go wrong! Burning it turns the flavor bitter. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a preheated skillet at medium heat. Oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- Add garlic to the oil and stir frequently, keeping a close eye on it.
- Cook for only about 30 seconds until it gets fragrant. If it starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat immediately.
- As soon as it’s fragrant, move on to the next step in your recipe quickly!
This will keep your dish flavorful and delicious! Enjoy cooking your creamy tomato basil chicken skillet!
Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or 1 tablespoon fresh Italian herbs)
For the Spinach:
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Optional:
- Extra Parmesan cheese for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. With 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Season your chicken thighs (or breasts) generously on both sides with salt and pepper. This adds flavor to the meat!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic, as it can taste bitter!
4. Make the Sauce:
Add the crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce) and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir well and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes so all those lovely flavors can meld together.
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Now, lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
6. Cook the Spinach:
Add in the fresh spinach, letting it wilt in the sauce, which should take around 2 minutes. The greenery not only adds flavor but is also nutritious!
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, nesting them in that creamy tomato spinach sauce. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through.
8. Finish with Basil:
Right before serving, stir in the freshly chopped basil. This will give your dish a fresh burst of flavor!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon some of the creamy sauce over the chicken when serving, and if you like, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top. This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a slice of that crusty bread.
Enjoy your delicious and creamy tomato basil chicken skillet!
FAQ About the Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs or breasts! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method to speed things up. After thawing, pat the chicken dry before cooking to ensure a nice sear.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of milk for creaminess. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or cashew cream works well too!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, and keep everything else the same. The creamy tomato sauce and spinach will be just as delicious!
