This Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet is a dream come true! Juicy chicken is cooked in a rich, creamy tomato sauce with fresh basil. It’s packed with flavor and super easy to make!
You’ll love how quick this dish comes together—perfect for busy nights. I make some pasta or rice on the side, and dinner is served in no time. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are my favorite for their juicy texture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use chicken breasts, but they might dry out a bit, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes work perfectly and save time. Just make sure to drain excess liquid for a thicker sauce.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option. It won’t be quite as rich, but it still adds creaminess.
Basil: Fresh basil brings a wonderful aroma. If you can’t find it, dried basil can work in a pinch, but use only about a third of the amount as dried herbs are more potent.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice finishing touch. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
How Do I Achieve Crispy Chicken Skin?
To get that delicious crispy skin on your chicken, start by ensuring the chicken thighs are dry. Patting them with a paper towel helps. Then, heat your skillet until it’s hot before adding the chicken skin-side down. This technique helps the skin render and become crispy.
- Heat the skillet to medium-high heat for a good sizzle.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan so that the moisture has room to escape.
- Let it cook undisturbed until deep golden brown before flipping.
This method will give you that crispy skin everyone loves while keeping the chicken juicy inside! Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-40 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 50 minutes from start to finish. It’s a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner that feels special!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Then, season them generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will enhance their flavor when cooking.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is beautifully golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes on the other side, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Garlic:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add Tomatoes:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes) to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.
5. Mix the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, heavy cream, and if you choose, the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes to blend all those wonderful flavors together.
6. Cook the Chicken:
Carefully nestle the chicken thighs back into the sauce. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
7. Add Spinach and Basil:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet again. Stir the fresh spinach and chopped basil into the sauce, letting the spinach wilt for about 2 minutes.
8. Final Touches:
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of that creamy sauce over the top, and sprinkle everything with grated Parmesan cheese for a savory finish.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy tomato basil chicken hot, drenching it in that luscious sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even some crusty bread to soak up all that flavor. Enjoy every bite!
This recipe yields tender, juicy chicken thighs bathed in a luscious creamy tomato sauce brightened with fresh basil. The Parmesan adds a delightful savory finish. Enjoy your cooking adventures!
FAQ for Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Can I Use Boneless Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless chicken thighs or breasts for an easier cooking experience. Just reduce the cooking time to about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or plain Greek yogurt. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream works well but will add a hint of coconut flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or use the microwave, stirring occasionally to heats evenly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time! Cook everything as instructed, let it cool, and then store it in the fridge. Reheat on the stove over low heat when you’re ready to serve—just add a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce!
