Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet

$- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat) - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded - Salt and pepper to taste For this Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet, I choose fresh, high-quality ingredients. The chicken breasts should be plump and well-trimmed. This ensures quick cooking and juicy bites. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and a burst of flavor. Fresh basil brings an aromatic touch that brightens the dish. The olive oil is key for sautéing. It adds richness, while garlic gives a strong, savory base. Dried oregano adds depth to the flavor. If you like heat, add red pepper flakes for a kick. Low-sodium chicken broth keeps the dish light. It helps to create a sauce that coats the chicken and tomatoes. Lastly, mozzarella cheese melts into a gooey topping, making every bite full of flavor. For the full recipe, check out the detailed cooking instructions that follow. - Seasoning the chicken Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Use salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor and helps create a nice crust when cooking. - Preparing the skillet Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken. This helps the chicken cook evenly. - Initial cooking process Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to get golden brown. - Achieving the right internal temperature Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken. It should reach 165°F. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat. - Adding garlic and tomatoes Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften. - Simmering techniques Pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and red pepper flakes if you want heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer. This combines all the flavors. - Nestling chicken and adding basil Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the tomatoes. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This lets the flavors mix well. - Melting cheese Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2-3 minutes. This helps the cheese melt perfectly. This step-by-step guide will help you create a delicious Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet. For the complete details, check the Full Recipe. To ensure juicy chicken, always start with fresh, high-quality chicken breasts. Season the chicken well with salt and pepper. This enhances the flavor and helps keep the moisture locked in. Cook the chicken on medium heat. This allows it to brown nicely while cooking through evenly. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F for safe eating. Proper seasoning is key. Always season both sides of the chicken. Use salt and pepper as your base. You can add garlic powder or onion powder for more flavor. When you add the garlic in the skillet, let it cook just until fragrant. This step adds a nice depth to the dish. For garnishing ideas, think fresh! Add more chopped basil on top for color and flavor. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese for a gourmet touch. Fresh cherry tomatoes on the side can add a pop of color too. For serving suggestions, plate the chicken with the tomato mixture on top. Serve it alongside a simple salad or over a bed of rice. This makes the meal look inviting and appetizing. The best skillet types for this dish are non-stick or cast iron. They distribute heat evenly and make cooking easier. A large skillet is ideal to fit all the chicken breasts at once. Essential cooking tools include a meat thermometer to check doneness and a good spatula for flipping the chicken. A sharp knife will help you chop the garlic and basil quickly. These tools make cooking smooth and enjoyable. For the Full Recipe, you can check the earlier sections. {{image_2}} For this recipe, you can switch up the main protein. Instead of chicken, try turkey breasts or pork chops. These options still pair well with the fresh tomato and basil flavors. If you prefer a vegan or vegetarian dish, use chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken. Both options work great. Just ensure you cook them properly to get the right texture. You can enhance the flavor by adding more herbs. Fresh thyme or parsley can bring a new twist. Some people love adding a touch of rosemary for a stronger taste. Consider adding bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition. These veggies cook quickly and add sweetness. You can toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking. This dish pairs well with a simple side of rice or quinoa. They soak up the sauce nicely. A fresh salad also complements the meal perfectly, with its crisp texture. For wine, a light white like Sauvignon Blanc works best. It balances the dish without overpowering it. If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir can also be a nice match. For the full recipe, visit the [Full Recipe](#). To store leftover Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet, let it cool first. Once cool, place it in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh. You can refrigerate it for up to three days. When reheating, use low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. If you want to freeze this dish, follow these steps. Cool the skillet meal completely. Next, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags for easier storage. Remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. Frozen, it lasts for about three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before warming it on the stove. When stored properly, Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet can last in the fridge for up to three days. If frozen, its quality remains good for three months. Always check for signs of spoilage, like an off smell or strange texture, before eating. Enjoy your meal knowing it’s safe and tasty! What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese? You can use provolone or gouda cheese. These cheeses melt well and taste great. If you want a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce in advance. Just store it in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove before serving. How do I know when the chicken is cooked? The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for best results. The chicken will also be golden brown and firm to the touch. What to do with leftover chicken? You can slice it for sandwiches or salads. It also works well in wraps or on pizza. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. How can I make it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes to the skillet. You can also include diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick. Adjust to your taste! Can this dish be served over pasta or rice? Absolutely! Serve it over pasta, rice, or quinoa. It makes a filling meal and soaks up the flavors well. How to adapt for meal prep? Cook the chicken and sauce as directed. Divide into meal prep containers. Add sides like rice or veggies for quick lunches. This recipe blends tasty chicken with fresh veggies and herbs. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and practical tips. Remember, juicy chicken needs careful seasoning and heat control. Feel free to try different meats or add spices to change the flavor. Store leftovers properly to enjoy later. Cooking can be fun and easy with the right approach. Experiment and enjoy your meals!$

Create a delicious Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet in just 30 minutes! This one-pan meal features juicy chicken breasts, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil, all topped with melted mozzarella for a cheesy finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is bursting with flavor and easy to make. Click to explore the full recipe and discover how to make this satisfying and healthy meal that your family will love!

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Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently until fragrant.

Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.

Pour in the chicken broth, then add the dried oregano and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Return the chicken to the skillet and nestle it among the tomatoes. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Sprinkle the chopped basil over the chicken and then top with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet and let it sit for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Remove from heat and garnish with extra basil if desired before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4