Italian Chicken Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken with tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a rich and savory Italian-inspired dish. This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it’s ready in about 30 minutes and pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Season the chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the onion and garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
- Make the sauce:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, red pepper flakes (if using), and chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken:
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Garnish and serve:
- Stir in the fresh basil and top the dish with shredded Parmesan cheese, if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley for added freshness.
Serve this Italian Chicken Skillet with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This easy, flavorful dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal!
