This Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet is a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy days. Juicy chicken is cooked with fresh tomatoes and basil for a burst of flavor!
Making this dish is a breeze! I love how everything cooks in one skillet. Less mess means more time to enjoy this deliciousness. Don’t forget to serve it with a big smile! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they cook quickly and absorb flavors well. If you prefer dark meat, feel free to use boneless, skinless thighs!
Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst when cooked. In their absence, regular tomatoes chopped into small pieces work fine, too. Use what you can find, especially during off-seasons!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add depth to the dish. If you don’t have them on hand, consider using roasted red peppers or olives for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: For a low-carb option, heavy cream is perfect for a creamy sauce. If you’re watching your fat intake, try half-and-half or a blend of Greek yogurt and chicken broth, but it may alter the texture slightly.
Basil: Fresh basil brings vibrant flavor, but dried basil is a good alternative. I prefer using fresh when it’s available to really enhance the dish’s aroma.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
To achieve juicy chicken, paying attention to the cooking time is essential. Here’s how to make sure your chicken turns out great:
- Always pre-season the chicken with salt and pepper for added flavor.
- Use medium-high heat for a nice golden crust. If the heat is too high, you risk burning the outside while the inside remains raw.
- Cook each chicken breast for about 6-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender.
With these tips, your chicken will be perfectly cooked every time!
Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for thinning sauce)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal comes together in just about 30 minutes! You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking. Quick, easy, and so satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, add both the cherry tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften.
5. Incorporate the Basil:
Now, stir in your basil—whether it’s dried or freshly chopped. This will infuse the dish with lots of delicious aroma!
6. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together well and let the cheese melt, thickening the sauce slightly. If it gets too thick, just add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
7. Combine and Simmer:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of that creamy sauce and tomatoes over them. Let everything simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld those wonderful flavors.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your chicken dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for an uplifting finish. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful keto tomato basil chicken skillet!
This dish is perfect on its own but pairs wonderfully with steamed veggies or cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking! Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave. Pat it dry before seasoning to help achieve a nice sear.
How to Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you want to make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor will still be delicious with the tomatoes and spices!
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This keto skillet dish goes great with steamed vegetables like zucchini or broccoli. For a heartier option, serve it over cauliflower rice, which adds texture without the carbs!
How to 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 medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
