This Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet is a bright and tasty dish with juicy chicken and fresh tomatoes. It’s quick to make and packed with flavors that everyone will love.
You can enjoy this dish with some pasta or a crisp salad. I like to make extra and take leftovers for lunch—it tastes even better the next day! 🍅👩🍳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is ideal for this dish as it cooks quickly and remains juicy. You can use chicken thighs if you prefer, as they add extra flavor and tenderness.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and freshness to the dish. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, you can use diced canned tomatoes instead. Just drain some of the liquid for better consistency.
Onions: Yellow onions work best for their sweetness. If you’re looking for a milder taste, you can switch to shallots or green onions.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a similar cheesy taste.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its flavor. If you’re out, any cooking oil will do, but avoid oils with strong flavors like coconut.
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken properly is crucial for a tasty dish. Here’s how to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly:
- Start by seasoning the chicken well. This helps enhance its flavor.
- Use medium-high heat when searing the chicken. This creates a nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches for even cooking.
- Check doneness by looking for an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C using a meat thermometer.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices inside, making it more tender.
This method will lead to delicious, juicy chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. This step ensures that your chicken has great flavor!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. After searing, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes softened. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
4. Add Garlic:
Now, add the minced garlic and cook everything together for another 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic smells fragrant!
5. Incorporate the Tomatoes:
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and the remaining Italian seasoning to the skillet. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes begin to break down and release their juices.
6. Pour in the Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir. Make sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan as these add flavor.
7. Return the Chicken:
Now it’s time to return the seared chicken breasts back to the skillet. Nestle them into the lovely tomato mixture.
8. Simmer it Down:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Allow it to simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
9. Thicken the Sauce:
After simmering, remove the lid and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top. Let the sauce thicken for a few minutes while remaining uncovered.
10. Garnish:
Lastly, garnish your dish with fresh basil slices and, if you’d like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken hot, spooning plenty of the delicious tomato sauce over the top. Enjoy your wholesome, vibrant, and flavorful Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet!
FAQ for Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Ideally, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or submerge them in a sealed bag in cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they sear nicely.
What Can I Substitute for Cherry Tomatoes?
If cherry tomatoes are not available, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead. Just drain some of the excess liquid to avoid a soupy consistency. Another option is to use grape tomatoes, as they have a similar sweetness.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving, adding a splash of broth if needed to refresh the sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over low heat or use the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
