This Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet is a tasty dish packed with juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and vibrant basil. It’s both healthy and quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights!
Honestly, one pan means less cleanup, and who doesn’t love that? I like to serve it over zucchini noodles for a fun twist. You won’t believe how good this meal is!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, but thighs can be a great alternative if you prefer dark meat. They stay juicy and add more flavor.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Their rich flavor is fantastic here. If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, diced fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes can work, though the flavor won’t be as concentrated.
Heavy Cream: This adds a luxurious creaminess to the sauce. If you want a lower-fat option, you can substitute with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice flavor, but you could use pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast if you’re dairy-free.
How Do I Get Juicy Chicken in This Skillet?
One key to juicy chicken is not to overcook it. Here’s how to ensure tender results:
- Use a meat thermometer. Chicken is done at 165°F. Cooking to this temperature means it will remain juicy.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices inside when you slice into it.
Another tip: Preheat your skillet properly before adding oil, so you get that perfect golden crust without drying out the chicken.
Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Sauce:
- 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 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- For Garnish:
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 20 minutes to cook. In just around 30 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful, keto-friendly chicken dish ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will give the chicken a nice flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side. You want them golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and stir them around for about 1 minute. This helps to release their flavor into the oil.
5. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of kick. Allow the sauce to cook for 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet. Spoon the delicious sauce over the top, and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes so the chicken warms through and absorbs the wonderful flavors.
8. Finishing Touches:
Finally, stir in the fresh chopped basil. This will give your dish a burst of freshness. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet while hot. It’s fantastic with a side of steamed vegetables or over cauliflower rice for a wholesome, keto-friendly meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add more flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may need a few extra minutes to cook through, depending on their thickness.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter option or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that using alternatives may change the overall flavor and texture of the sauce slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying it out.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the skillet when making the sauce. Just sauté them with the garlic at the beginning for a delicious, veggie-packed dish!
