This Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet is a bright and tasty dish packed with juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, and basil. It’s colorful and full of flavor, perfect for a quick dinner!
Who knew healthy could taste this good? I love making it on busy nights since it comes together in just one pan—less mess for me to clean up! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly, making them ideal for this dish. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too! They can add more moisture and flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: These tomatoes are sweet and juicy, perfect for this dish. If they’re out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes for a similar flavor. Just skip adding the additional canned tomatoes.
Onion and Garlic: Sweet onions or yellow onions enhance the flavor. If you’re not a fan, shallots make a nice alternative. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder will do in a pinch if you’re short on fresh garlic.
Spices: Dried basil and oregano bring great flavor, but fresh herbs are always better if you have them. Just use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried. If you want some heat, the red pepper flakes are great but can be omitted for a milder taste.
How Do I Get Juicy Chicken in My Skillet?
The key to juicy chicken is not to overcook it. Here’s how to ensure perfectly cooked chicken:
- Start by seasoning your chicken well—it adds flavor throughout.
- Heat the oil in the skillet before adding the chicken to get a good sear. Aim for a golden brown color on both sides.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 165°F (74°C) is your target.
- If you notice the chicken is getting too dark, lower the heat and cover the skillet to keep moisture in while it cooks through.
By following these tips, you’ll have a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture! Happy cooking!
Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced (about 1/4 cup) for garnish
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 30 minutes for cooking, so you’ll spend roughly 40 minutes in total. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner that’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple step ensures that your chicken is flavorful all the way through!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook until they are golden brown on both sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step adds a wonderful base flavor to your dish.
4. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
5. Prepare the Sauce:
Now stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, the can of diced tomatoes (including the juices), oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato sauce. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer together for another 10-12 minutes. This is when the chicken will cook through completely—make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve with Garnish:
Once done, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the dish with fresh sliced basil and grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. This adds a lovely freshness to your meal!
Enjoy your colorful and tasty Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet, a wholesome dish that’s sure to impress!
FAQ for Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add even more flavor and remain juicy during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to reach the proper internal temperature.
What If I Don’t Have Cherry Tomatoes?
No problem! You can use regular diced tomatoes instead. Just skip the additional canned diced tomatoes, or use two cans of diced tomatoes for a chunkier consistency.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or use hearty vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms. Sauté them in the same way as the chicken to develop some excellent flavor.
How Do 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 or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. You can add a splash of water or broth if it looks dry!
