This creamy tomato basil chicken skillet is a quick and tasty meal! Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich sauce made of tomatoes, basil, and cream. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
I love how easy this dish is to whip up on busy nights. Just cook the chicken, add the sauce, and enjoy! Plus, my family can’t get enough of those rich flavors. 🍅🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. If you prefer chicken breasts, they work too but may be a bit drier. You can also use turkey cutlets for a lighter option!
Tomato Sauce: Feel free to use canned crushed tomatoes if that’s what you have. For a more robust flavor, fire-roasted tomatoes are a great choice. If fresh tomatoes are in season, you can chop them up and use those instead!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, try half-and-half or coconut cream if you’re avoiding dairy. I find that the cream creates a wonderfully rich sauce, so choose what fits your diet best!
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil elevates the dish, but in a pinch, dried basil could work. Just use about a teaspoon, remembering it won’t have the same vibrant flavor. You can also try parsley or oregano for a different twist.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
The key to juicy chicken in this recipe is to not overcook it. Searing on medium-high heat creates a nice golden crust while keeping the inside tender.
- Start with room temperature chicken for even cooking.
- Sear for about 5-6 minutes each side; you’ll know it’s ready when it’s golden brown and juices run clear.
- Using a meat thermometer, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing also helps retain juices, making every bite moist and delicious!
Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy tomato basil chicken skillet takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously on both sides with salt and pepper. This step adds a great flavor base for the dish!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan. This means you’ll get all those lovely browned bits mixed into your sauce—yummy!
5. Add Cream and Seasoning:
Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning (if you’re using it), and optional red pepper flakes for a little kick. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Add Spinach and Basil:
Add the fresh spinach and chopped basil into the sauce, stirring until the spinach wilts. It’s so nice and vibrant!
7. Return the Chicken:
Now, return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top—this gives it that cheesy goodness!
8. Final Simmer:
Let everything simmer together for another 3-5 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken to meld those flavors beautifully.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish with extra fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. This creamy tomato basil chicken skillet is delicious served over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread for easy dipping. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure the chicken is completely thawed before cooking. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker method. Pat it dry before seasoning!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half for a lighter option or coconut cream if you want a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the sauce might be a bit less thick with these substitutions, but still tasty!
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 or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy skillet chicken is fantastic over pasta or rice to soak up the sauce. For a lighter meal, you could serve it alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables.
