Description
This Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet is a flavorful and wholesome one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a fresh tomato and basil sauce, seasoned with Italian herbs, garlic, and a touch of sweetness. Ready in 45 minutes, it delivers a comforting yet light Italian-inspired dish perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (4-5 small breasts)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Pomodoro Sauce
- 2 tbsp fresh minced garlic
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 24 oz grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
- 1 tsp white sugar
To Serve
- Parmesan cheese, grated or shaved
- Additional fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper thoroughly. Rub this seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts to ensure they are well coated.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for about 2 minutes on one side, then flip and sear for another 2 minutes on the other side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to low and add the minced garlic and finely diced onion to the same skillet. Sauté gently for 1-2 minutes, taking care not to let the garlic or onion burn, to release their flavors into the pan.
- Prepare Pomodoro Sauce: Add the halved grape tomatoes and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to incorporate into the sauce. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
- Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Stir in the fresh basil and white sugar to the sauce. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them slightly into the tomato sauce. Cover the chicken partially with the sauce and continue simmering for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle extra fresh basil and grated or shaved Parmesan cheese generously on top of the chicken and sauce.
- Serve: Plate the chicken breasts with ample sauce spooned over them. Garnish with more fresh basil if desired and serve immediately for a delicious and healthy meal.
Notes
- Use grape or cherry tomatoes for a naturally sweet and tender sauce base.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, especially if you prefer less salt.
- For a low-sodium option, use low-sodium chicken broth.
- Make sure to not overcook the chicken during searing to keep it juicy.
- Parmesan is optional but adds a nice savory, umami boost.
- Serve this dish with a side of whole grain pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
