This Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet is a one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor! Juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil make it delicious and satisfying without the carbs.
Cooking everything in one skillet means less cleanup, which is a win in my book! I love serving it with a salad on the side for a fresh touch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish. They cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a rich flavor to the dish. You can use marinated ones for extra taste, or if you’re in a pinch, fresh tomatoes chopped small can substitute, although they won’t have the same intensity.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy and delicious. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half but expect a thinner sauce. Coconut cream is a dairy-free option that works well, too!
Parmesan Cheese: It melts beautifully and adds great flavor. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative can stand in.
Fresh Basil: Fresh herbs elevate the dish! You could substitute dried basil in a pinch, but use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
How Can I Perfectly Cook Chicken in a Skillet?
Getting the chicken perfectly cooked is key to this recipe. Here are some helpful steps:
- Start with a preheated skillet. This helps the chicken sear nicely for flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan as that can lower the temperature. Cook in batches if needed.
- Cooking each side for 5-6 minutes should yield a golden crust. Use a meat thermometer to check for a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking keeps it juicy!
Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. 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 your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if you choose to use it. This will give it a lovely flavor as it cooks.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Let them cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium, and in the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and continue to cook for another minute.
4. Combine Cream and Broth:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth while stirring well to combine. This is going to create a rich and creamy sauce!
5. Add Cheese and Basil:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Then, sprinkle in the fresh basil, giving it a mix.
6. Return Chicken to Skillet:
Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over each piece. Let everything cook together for another 2 minutes to warm through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley for some fresh color and flavor. Serve the chicken warm with the creamy tomato basil sauce drizzled over it. For a complete meal, pair it with cauliflower rice or some steamed vegetables to keep it keto-friendly! Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! However, they won’t have the same concentrated flavor. You can dice about 1-2 medium tomatoes and add them to the sauce, but be sure to cook them a bit longer so they soften up nicely.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half is a good substitute, though the sauce will be thinner. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well and provides a rich texture.
How Long Can 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 or broth to revive the sauce’s consistency.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat and combine them in a skillet for a quick meal!
