This Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet Dinner is a one-pan wonder! Juicy chicken pairs with colorful tomatoes and fragrant herbs for a tasty meal that’s quick to make and good for you.
What I love most is how simple it is—just toss everything in a skillet and let it simmer. Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and ideal for this dish. If you’re looking for a substitute, consider boneless turkey breasts or chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Tomatoes: I love using cherry or grape tomatoes for their sweetness and burst of flavor. If these aren’t available, you can use regular tomatoes—just chop them up! Canned tomatoes are a great shortcut too.
Herbs: Dried Italian herbs bring warmth and flavor to the dish. If you’re fresh out of these, use individual herbs like basil or oregano instead. Fresh herbs also work wonderfully if you have them!
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps your dish healthy and flavorful. You can swap it with vegetable broth for a lighter touch or even water in a pinch.
How Do I Sauté Onions and Garlic Correctly?
Sautéing onions and garlic sets the stage for great flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the skillet over medium heat before adding oil—this helps prevent sticking.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion. Stir frequently until soft and translucent, taking about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic next, cooking for just a minute until fragrant. Watch closely so garlic doesn’t burn!
This simple technique builds a flavor base that enhances your dish’s overall taste.
Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet Dinner takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a quick weekday dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Make sure they’re well coated for the best flavor!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they turn a lovely golden brown and are nearly cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
4. Adding the Tomatoes:
Now, it’s time to add the halved cherry tomatoes, canned tomatoes (whether crushed or diced), dried Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to combine the flavors nicely.
5. Simmering the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step helps to meld all the delicious flavors together.
6. Cooking the Chicken in Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato sauce. Reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
7. Garnishing:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the dish with fresh sliced basil for a pop of color and flavor. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch!
8. Serving:
Serve this delicious chicken pomodoro warm, spooning some of the sauce over the chicken. It pairs perfectly with whole grain pasta, quinoa, or a crisp side salad for a well-rounded meal.
Enjoy your Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet Dinner—it’s not just a meal; it’s a flavorful experience!
FAQ for Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet Dinner
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables! Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can be great additions. Just sauté them with the onions before adding tomatoes for a nutritious boost!
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth works just fine for a lighter option. You can also use water, but broth enhances the flavor significantly!
