This Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet is a one-pan wonder! Juicy chicken is cooked with sweet tomatoes and fresh basil, all basking in a creamy sauce. Yum!
You’ll love how fast it comes together. Perfect for busy nights when you crave something tasty without the fuss. Pair it with pasta or rice and enjoy a hearty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless and skinless thigh meat for its tenderness and flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken breasts, but they may need a little extra cooking time.
Crushed Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes are super convenient and perfect for this dish. However, fresh tomatoes can be used too—just chop and crush them. You can also try a jarred pasta sauce in a pinch!
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creamy texture. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that flavors may slightly change.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor! You can also use dried basil if fresh isn’t available, but use half the amount (1/4 cup) since dried is stronger.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great color and nutrition. If you don’t have it, kale or other leafy greens can work too! Just adjust cooking time as needed.
How Do You Cook Chicken Perfectly in a Skillet?
Cooking chicken in a skillet can be tricky, but with the right techniques, you’ll get juicy results every time. Start by seasoning the chicken well, then heat the skillet until it’s hot before adding the oil and chicken.
- Use medium-high heat for a nice sear; this locks in juices and adds flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! This prevents steaming. Cook in batches if needed.
- Cook until it’s golden brown on the first side (about 5-6 minutes), then flip and cook the other side thoroughly.
- Rest the chicken for a few minutes after cooking, allowing the juices to redistribute.
These simple tips can help you achieve tender, flavorful chicken every time!
How to Make Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (reserve a few for garnish)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook, making a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs generously on both sides with salt and pepper. This adds flavor to the meat and enhances the overall dish.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on one side until they are golden brown. Flip the thighs over and cook the other side for another 5-6 minutes, or until fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and the garlic becomes fragrant. Keep an eye on it to prevent the garlic from burning.
4. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes. This helps meld all the flavors together and creates a rich sauce.
5. Make It Creamy:
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream, mixing well until the sauce becomes creamy and a lovely pinkish color. This will bring a delightful richness to your dish!
6. Incorporate Spinach and Basil:
Add the chopped basil leaves and fresh spinach to the creamy sauce. Stir gently until the spinach wilts down and becomes tender, which should take just a couple of minutes.
7. Return Chicken to the Skillet:
Now, place the cooked chicken thighs back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, giving it extra flavor.
8. Simmer Together:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes. This allows the chicken to heat through while absorbing the delicious sauce flavors.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish the dish with any reserved fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese to give it a lovely presentation.
This creamy tomato basil chicken is perfect served over pasta, rice, or alongside some warm crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your delightful meal!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Thighs?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is overnight in the fridge or by sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for faster results.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with Something Lighter?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or even milk for a lighter option, but keep in mind that the sauce will be less creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream, though it will change the flavor slightly.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with This Meal?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce. A simple side salad or steamed vegetables also make for a great complement.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
