This Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet is a joy for any chicken lover. Juicy chicken cooked with fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil makes it super tasty and healthy!
Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, so clean-up is a breeze. I always add extra basil because, well, you can never have too much flavor! 🌱
In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready. I love serving it with a side of veggies for a complete keto dinner that’s easy and enjoyable!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you want, you can use thighs instead for a juicier bite. They might take a little longer to cook, but they add great flavor!
Sun-dried Tomatoes: Opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. If you run out, fresh tomatoes can be chopped and added for a fresher taste, but you might need to cook them longer to soften.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you’re looking for lighter options, substitute with coconut cream or a low-carb cream cheese, but the taste will differ slightly. I often mix in sour cream for a tangy twist!
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan gives a savory kick to the dish. Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are suitable substitutes. Just make sure they are finely grated for easy mixing into the sauce!
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but a few simple steps make it easier. First, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to get a good sear.
- Pat the chicken dry; moisture affects browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe and juicy.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for the juices to redistribute, so it remains tender and flavorful!
Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Time Needed:
This delicious keto-friendly dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll need a few minutes to season and sear the chicken, followed by some steps to make the creamy sauce. Once everything is combined and simmered, your meal will be ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear them for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium, and in the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir, cooking for another minute to combine the flavors.
4. Add Cream and Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits from the chicken. This adds wonderful flavor to your sauce!
5. Stir in the Cheese and Seasonings:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with the dried Italian seasoning (or fresh basil, if you prefer). Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until it slightly thickens up.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over each piece. Let everything cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes, so the flavors meld beautifully.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once plated, garnish with freshly chopped basil and, if you’d like, some parsley for an extra pop of color. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious keto-friendly chicken dish with sides like cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables!
Enjoy this creamy, flavorful chicken with its rich tomato-basil cream sauce—it’s not just low in carbs, but also packed with taste!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a juicier flavor to the dish. Just be sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). They may require a slightly longer cooking time than breasts.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore the sauce’s creaminess!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind this will alter the flavor slightly, adding a hint of coconut. You can also use a dairy-free cheese alternative for the Parmesan.
What Sides Pair Well with This Dish?
This dish is perfect with keto-friendly sides like cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or steamed vegetables. A fresh salad is also a great complement to balance the rich flavors of the chicken!
