If you’re searching for a vibrant, flavor-packed dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes, look no further than Chicken Pomodoro. This dish is a celebration of juicy chicken breasts simmered in a garlicky tomato sauce, crowned with fresh basil and a shower of Parmesan. It’s the kind of meal that feels both comforting and special, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress someone with minimal effort. Chicken Pomodoro brings together the sunny flavors of Italy in a skillet, and once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chicken Pomodoro is in its simplicity: each ingredient is chosen for the way it enhances the final dish, from the juicy chicken to the sweet, bursting cherry tomatoes. Gather these kitchen staples for a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, they soak up all the flavor and cook up tender every time.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing out the natural flavors of every component.
- Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat for balance.
- Garlic powder: A quick way to infuse the chicken with subtle, savory depth.
- Olive oil: Gives the chicken a lovely golden crust and carries the flavors of the sauce.
- Garlic (fresh): Minced garlic releases its aroma and provides bold, classic Italian flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes: When halved and sautéed, they create a naturally sweet and tangy sauce.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick if you like a little heat.
- Chicken broth: Deglazes the pan and builds a rich, savory body for the sauce.
- Fresh basil: Chopped basil adds a pop of color and a signature herbal note at the end.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan melts over the dish, adding nutty, salty richness.
- Pasta or rice (optional): The perfect base for soaking up all that luscious sauce.
How to Make Chicken Pomodoro
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels for better browning. Sprinkle both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, pressing the seasonings in so every bite will be flavorful. This quick step makes a big difference in the taste of your Chicken Pomodoro.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken. Let it cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, resisting the urge to move it too much—this helps develop a beautiful golden crust. When the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a plate and keep it warm.
Step 3: Build the Pomodoro Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in your minced garlic. Let it cook for just 30 seconds to unlock its aroma (watch closely so it doesn’t burn). Add the halved cherry tomatoes and the optional red pepper flakes, stirring for 4 to 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and begin to burst, releasing their wonderful juices.
Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these are flavor gold! Bring it to a gentle simmer, letting the sauce thicken slightly and the tomatoes break down further. This is where the magic of Chicken Pomodoro really happens, as all the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Return Chicken and Finish
Nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the tomato sauce over the top. Let everything cook together for another 3 to 4 minutes so the chicken can soak up those delicious juices. Turn off the heat, sprinkle with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, and serve hot. If you like, dish it up over pasta or rice for a hearty meal.
How to Serve Chicken Pomodoro
Garnishes
A final flourish of chopped fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese make Chicken Pomodoro shine. If you want extra color and flavor, add a few halved cherry tomatoes or a drizzle of good olive oil right before serving.
Side Dishes
Chicken Pomodoro is fantastic alongside buttered pasta, but it’s also delicious served with fluffy white rice, creamy polenta, or a simple side salad. A hunk of crusty bread is perfect for mopping up that irresistible tomato sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the chicken and fanning it over a bed of pasta, then spooning the tomato sauce artistically on top. For a lighter presentation, serve Chicken Pomodoro atop a bed of sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles. Mini portions also work wonderfully as an appetizer for a dinner party!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Chicken Pomodoro cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, staying moist and flavorful for easy lunches or dinners.
Freezing
Chicken Pomodoro freezes surprisingly well! Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed. The microwave also works in a pinch—just cover and heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring the sauce in between.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in Chicken Pomodoro and often stay extra juicy. Just adjust the cook time as needed since thighs may take a bit longer.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Chicken Pomodoro is naturally gluten-free as long as you skip the pasta or use a gluten-free variety. It’s a great option for guests with dietary restrictions.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Definitely! Sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can all be added to the sauce for extra nutrition and color. Just toss them in along with the tomatoes.
What’s the best way to get juicy chicken?
For the juiciest Chicken Pomodoro, don’t overcook the chicken. Pounding the breasts to even thickness helps them cook evenly, and letting them rest for a few minutes before slicing keeps them moist.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can! Prepare the Chicken Pomodoro sauce and cook the chicken up to a day in advance. Store them separately, and reheat gently together when you’re ready to serve for the freshest flavor.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Pomodoro is truly a dish that proves simple ingredients can create something unforgettable. With its fresh flavors, quick prep, and versatile serving options, it’s bound to become a favorite at your table. Give it a try—you might just find yourself craving it again before you’ve even finished the leftovers!
Print
Chicken Pomodoro Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Chicken Pomodoro is a vibrant Italian-inspired dish featuring tender boneless chicken breasts cooked in a fresh tomato sauce with garlic, basil, and Parmesan cheese. This easy skillet recipe delivers a flavorful and comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners, served over pasta or rice.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Tomato Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Serving
- Cooked pasta or rice for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the flavor before cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes start to soften and burst, creating a fresh sauce base.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, and scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits, enriching the sauce flavor.
- Return Chicken: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the tomato sauce over them. Cook together for an additional 3 to 4 minutes to meld the flavors and warm the chicken through.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle fresh chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and sauce. Serve immediately over cooked pasta or rice if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use heirloom cherry tomatoes or add a splash of white wine along with the chicken broth to enhance the sauce.
- For even cooking and faster cook time, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning.
- This dish can be made gluten-free by omitting pasta or using gluten-free pasta alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 510 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
