
Light, fresh, one-pan dinner
This Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet is fresh, vibrant, and full of classic Italian-inspired flavor without feeling heavy. Juicy chicken is simmered in a bright tomato-basil sauce with garlic and olive oil for a meal that’s wholesome, satisfying, and perfect for busy nights. Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup easy while still delivering bold, slow-simmered taste. If you’re looking for a healthy chicken dinner or a quick Mediterranean-style meal, this recipe checks all the boxes—simple, nourishing, and family-approved 🍃✨.
⏱️ Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
📝 Ingredients List
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- Optional: grated Parmesan for serving
✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- Large skillet with lid
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Tongs
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
- Season the chicken
Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. This helps create a flavorful sear 🍗. - Sear the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside. - Build the sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add onion and cook 3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant 🧄. - Simmer the pomodoro
Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. - Finish cooking
Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender 🍅. - Fresh finish
Sprinkle with fresh basil, taste, and adjust seasoning. Serve warm and vibrant 🌿.
💡 Pro Tips
- Extra veggies: Add spinach or zucchini during the last 5 minutes.
- Meal prep: Stores well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Low-carb option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Flavor boost: Finish with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil before serving.