This Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet is a quick and tasty dish made with juicy chicken and fresh tomatoes, all mixed with fragrant basil. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
I love how fast this meal comes together. Just cook the chicken, add the tomatoes, and let the magic happen. It’s a hit around my dinner table every time! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a bit more flavor or tenderness. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a nice tangy flavor. If you don’t have them, diced fresh tomatoes will work, but they won’t give the same intensity of flavor. You can also use roasted red peppers for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish a rich, creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or a low-carb milk alternative like unsweetened almond milk, but it may not be as creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt beautifully into the sauce. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the chicken perfectly cooked is key for this dish. Here’s how you can do it:
- Use a meat thermometer: The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest: After cooking, let it rest for a few minutes before cutting. This keeps it juicy.
- Cook in batches: If your skillet isn’t big enough, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. This helps it brown nicely.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken in a luscious sauce that everyone will love!
Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably in oil)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for mild heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a total of approximately 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step enhances the flavor of the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté them for about 1-2 minutes until they are fragrant and the garlic is lightly golden. This will add incredible flavor to your sauce.
4. Add Cream and Broth:
Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This helps in enhancing the flavor of the sauce.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and the optional 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens nicely.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Allow everything to simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken and let those delightful flavors meld together.
7. Finish with Fresh Basil:
Once done, turn off the heat and stir in the freshly chopped basil. This will give a fresh and aromatic finish to your dish.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with keto-friendly sides like cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet!
FAQ for Easy Keto Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely first! To thaw quickly, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water. Pat dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture in the skillet.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the Parmesan, try using nutritional yeast to give a cheesy flavor while keeping it dairy-free.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add more veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté these with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to add extra flavor and nutrients to your dish.
