Creamy Tomato Chicken Skillet Dinner
This Creamy Tomato Chicken Skillet Dinner is a deliciously quick meal that brings comfort to your table in under 20 minutes. The tender, seasoned chicken absorbs rich tomato flavors while bathing in a garlicky, creamy sauce that’s deeply satisfying and full of character.
Enhanced with hints of fennel and a subtle kick of crushed red pepper, this dish offers a well-balanced blend of spice and creaminess. Fresh kale adds a vibrant green touch, making this one-pan meal not only convenient but also loaded with nutrients.
Finished with Parmesan and fresh basil, this meal is a true family favorite, perfect for weeknights when time is tight yet flavor is a priority. Easy to make, easy to love—get ready for a skillet dinner that’s irresistibly creamy and flavorful!
Creamy Tomato Chicken Skillet Dinner: Ingredients
Chicken Breasts
Tender, juicy chicken breasts form the hearty base of this dish, absorbing all the rich flavors of the creamy tomato sauce for a satisfying bite in every forkful.
Tomato Paste and Crushed Tomatoes
A double dose of tomatoes creates a rich, velvety sauce with a deep, tangy flavor that anchors the entire dish in delicious, savory goodness.
Garlic and Fennel Seeds
Garlic infuses the sauce with warm aromatics, while fennel seeds add subtle hints of sweet anise, creating a nuanced, flavorful layer that makes each bite unforgettable.
Heavy Cream
This luscious cream transforms the tomato base into a silky, comforting sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken, bringing rich indulgence to every mouthful.
Kale
Fresh, tender kale adds vibrant color and hearty texture, balancing the creaminess and enhancing the dish with a nourishing green.
Parmesan Cheese
Grated Parmesan lends a nutty, savory depth, perfectly harmonizing with the tomatoes and cream while adding a final touch of indulgence.
Fresh Basil
Thinly sliced basil brings a fresh, fragrant finish, brightening the flavors and making this skillet dinner irresistibly aromatic.
Recipe Tips for Creamy Tomato Chicken Skillet Dinner
- Seasoning the Chicken Well
Make sure to season the chicken evenly before cooking to enhance its flavor. Seasoning with salt at the start helps the chicken absorb the flavors of the garlic and tomato cream sauce better. If you’re looking for an added depth, consider marinating the chicken for a few hours beforehand in a mix of olive oil, a touch of salt, and herbs for an even more flavorful bite. - Searing for Maximum Flavor
Achieving a good sear on the chicken before adding it to the sauce is key for texture and flavor. Heat the skillet until it’s hot and shimmering, then add the chicken breasts. Avoid moving the chicken while it cooks—this allows the outside to develop a golden crust, adding both flavor and a pleasant texture to contrast with the creamy sauce. - Balancing the Sauce
Heavy cream gives this dish its signature richness, but balancing it with acidity from the tomatoes is essential. If you find the sauce too rich, add a dash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Adjusting the seasoning before serving ensures a balanced sauce that doesn’t overpower the chicken.
What to Serve with Creamy Tomato Chicken Skillet Dinner
- Buttery Garlic Bread
Serve this skillet dinner with warm, buttery garlic bread for a classic pairing. The garlic bread’s crunchy exterior and soft, garlicky center make it perfect for soaking up the creamy tomato sauce, adding a satisfying texture contrast with each bite. - Light Side Salad
A fresh, crisp side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the creamy tomato sauce. The salad’s acidity and freshness help balance the dish’s creaminess and provide a vibrant, refreshing counterpoint. - Steamed Rice or Pasta
A simple side of steamed rice or pasta works wonders here, acting as a base to enjoy the extra sauce. Rice or pasta will absorb the creamy tomato sauce, creating a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
FAQ for Creamy Tomato Chicken Skillet Dinner
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe and add even more flavor. Adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a bit longer to reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Q2: Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
For a lighter version, try using half-and-half or a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk. The sauce may be slightly less rich but will still have a creamy texture.
Q3: What can I use instead of kale?
Spinach or Swiss chard are great substitutes for kale. They cook quickly and add a similar texture and earthy flavor. Just stir them into the sauce until they’re wilted.
Q4: How can I make the sauce spicier?
To increase the heat, add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust according to your spice preference, and taste as you go to avoid over-spicing.
Creamy Tomato Chicken Skillet Dinner
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1½ pounds)
- 1½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt divided
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 1 14-ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese divided
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 4 cups packed kale leaves tough stems removed and roughly chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves thinly sliced
Instructions
- Season the chicken with ½ teaspoon of the salt, ensuring even coverage. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and sear until golden brown, about 5 minutes on each side. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the tomato paste, minced garlic, fennel seeds, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir continuously for approximately 1 minute, or until the mixture becomes fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring as it reaches a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for about 3 minutes before adding the heavy cream, ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, and kale. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the kale wilts, roughly 3 minutes. Season with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Continue cooking until the internal temperature of the chicken reads 165°F on an instant-read thermometer, around 5 minutes. Sprinkle with the thinly sliced basil and the remaining Parmesan cheese before serving.
