This Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet is a tasty, low-carb meal that comes together quickly! Juicy chicken is cooked with fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil for a burst of flavor.
I love how this dish makes my kitchen smell amazing! Plus, it’s one of those meals you can whip up for dinner without breaking a sweat—just one pan and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for quick cooking. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, thighs can also work well as they are juicier.
Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: I always have both on hand, but avocado oil has a higher smoke point. Swap with coconut oil for a different flavor, but watch out as it can be quite strong.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a rich, tangy flavor. If you can’t find them, fresh tomatoes can work in a pinch, though they’ll yield more sauce. You might want to simmer the sauce longer to thicken it.
Heavy Cream: This gives a luscious texture. For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated will melt better than pre-grated. In a pinch, use Pecorino Romano for a nuttier flavor, or nutritional yeast if you want a non-dairy option.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Creating a creamy sauce can be quite rewarding, but timing and temperature are key. After sautéing the aromatics, adding the heavy cream and broth together helps create a smooth base.
- Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes. This reduces it and intensifies the flavors—don’t rush this part!
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese gradually. This helps it melt completely without clumping, ensuring a silky texture.
- When adding the basil, do it at the end to keep its vibrant color and fresh flavor. You’ll want that burst of freshness!
Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 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 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, giving you a quick total time of about 30 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner when time is short but you want something special.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This adds flavor right from the start!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or avocado oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook them for around 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sautéing the Aromatics:
Next, lower the heat to medium and in the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté these for about 1-2 minutes, stirring often, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
4. Making the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Allow the sauce to gently simmer for 3-5 minutes. This helps it thicken up a bit. You’ll want it nice and creamy!
5. Adding Flavor:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Mix everything together until the cheese fully melts and the sauce is rich and creamy.
6. Combining Everything:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of that delicious sauce over the top. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes so the chicken heats up and absorbs some tasty flavors.
7. Finishing Touches:
Finally, fold in the fresh chopped basil. This brightens up the dish with amazing flavor!
8. Serving:
Serve your chicken topped with the luscious sauce and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely presentation. Pair it with steamed or riced cauliflower for a complete keto-friendly meal!
Enjoy this Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet; it’s a comforting dish that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
FAQ for Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be a great alternative as they are juicier and tend to hold up well in cooking. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the flavor and thickness may vary slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain a creamy texture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra veggies. Just sauté them briefly alongside the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for best results!
