This Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet is a simple and tasty dish! It combines juicy chicken with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for a burst of flavor. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, so cleanup is a breeze!
I love how quick it comes together, making it perfect for busy nights. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread, and watch everyone come back for seconds! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor or even try tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. If they aren’t in season, you can substitute canned diced tomatoes or grape tomatoes cut in half. Both will still work nicely in the sauce.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is healthy and adds great flavor. If you’re out, you can substitute with avocado oil or even canola oil. Just avoid oils that have strong flavors like sesame oil for this dish.
Italian Herbs: The blend of dried herbs is crucial for flavor. If you’re missing one, don’t stress! Try using a combination of fresh herbs if you have them on hand, like basil or oregano directly from your garden or fridge.
How Do You Ensure Juicy, Flavorful Chicken?
To keep the chicken juicy and infused with flavor, start with seasoning it generously and searing it properly. Here’s how:
- Use medium-high heat and make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. This ensures even cooking.
- After searing, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
This technique will give you tender and tasty chicken in your skillet!
Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes (preferably no salt added)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup low sodium chicken broth or water
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet will take about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delicious weeknight dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the dried Italian herbs on both sides. This adds flavor to the chicken right from the start!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear them until they are golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes each side. After browning, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it until it’s soft and translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—make sure not to let it burn!
4. Add Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and stir occasionally, cooking for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften and release their juicy goodness into the pan.
5. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, the remaining dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), and the chicken broth. Mix it all well and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer.
6. Return the Chicken:
Carefully place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, making sure they are nestled in the tomato sauce. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an added touch of flavor, if you desire.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious chicken topped with the pomodoro sauce alongside whole grain pasta, quinoa, or a side of green vegetables for a hearty and healthy meal. Enjoy every bite!
This recipe is vibrant, healthy, and feels like a home-cooked Italian classic with fresh ingredients and minimal added fat!
FAQ for Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, consider using turkey cutlets in place of chicken.
What Can I Substitute for Cherry Tomatoes?
If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, you can use grape tomatoes or even a can of diced tomatoes. If using canned tomatoes, be sure to drain them lightly to avoid excess liquid in the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, and follow the same instructions to cook and simmer. You’ll still enjoy that delicious pomodoro sauce!
