This creamy tomato basil chicken skillet is a quick and tasty dish, perfect for busy weeknights! Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich tomato sauce with fresh basil, making it oh-so-delicious.
I love how everything cooks in one pan—less mess for me! You can serve it over rice or pasta, and my family always asks for seconds. Who can resist that creamy goodness? 🍅🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy texture. If you’d rather use chicken breasts, that’s fine too, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out more quickly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a lovely kick to the dish. However, you could use garlic powder in a pinch—about 1/2 teaspoon should do. Just note that fresh garlic has more flavor!
Tomato Sauce: For a thicker sauce, crushed tomatoes work well! You can even use diced tomatoes if that’s what you have. If you love a little tang, add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce!
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that these may alter the flavor slightly.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully in this dish. If you’re not a fan, you can use kale or even frozen spinach (thawed and drained) as an alternative.
How Can You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken just right is crucial for this dish. Here’s how to ensure your chicken is juicy and flavorful:
- Season the chicken well! A good amount of salt and pepper makes a big difference.
- Heat your skillet before adding oil. This helps give the chicken a nice sear.
- Cook chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of searing.
- The chicken should be golden brown on the outside, and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be fully cooked.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken every time! Enjoy making your creamy tomato basil chicken!
Easy Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take approximately 30 minutes, including about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, season the chicken thighs generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple step enhances the flavor remarkably!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and sear them for about 5-6 minutes per side. You want them to be golden brown and nearly cooked through. After they’re done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In that same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, until it’s fragrant. Make sure not to burn it, as burnt garlic can be bitter!
4. Make the Sauce:
Next, stir in the tomato sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. It should start to bubble lightly, creating a creamy sauce.
5. Add the Greens:
Toss in the fresh spinach and chopped basil leaves. Stir them into the sauce until the spinach wilts, which should just take a minute or two.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, making sure to spoon some sauce over each piece. This helps to coat the chicken beautifully!
7. Cook Until Done:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C) and the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. This is your chance to tailor the flavor just right!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the creamy tomato basil chicken hot! Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired. This delicious dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful skillet chicken—your family will love it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the thighs. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as breasts may cook a bit faster. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk is a great alternative, but keep in mind it will give the dish a slightly different flavor.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the entire dish and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce nice and creamy. You might want to add a splash of cream or milk to freshen it up.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to ensure even heating. If the sauce thickens too much, just add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up!
