Name: Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491377H22M42S
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with their juice; 1/2 cup fresh cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional for extra moisture); 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 42 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that feels both comforting and nourishing, look no further than this Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet Recipe. Bursting with vibrant, fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, paired with tender, seasoned chicken all cooked in one skillet, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy an Italian-inspired meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that make it a perfectly balanced dinner option you can feel great about serving any night of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl in the center filled with four pieces of raw, light pink chicken meat. To the left and slightly behind it, there is a clear glass measuring cup with light yellow broth inside. Behind the chicken bowl, a clear glass bowl holds chopped white onions. To the right of the onion bowl, there is a small white bowl with chopped green herbs. In front of the chicken bowl and farther left, a white bowl is filled with red halved cherry tomatoes. On the right side in front of the chicken, two small white ramekins hold minced garlic and yellow olive oil. In the front right corner, a small light green dish contains a mix of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. All the items are set on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet Recipe uses a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating a delicious medley of flavors and textures. From juicy tomatoes to aromatic basil and tender chicken, every element works in harmony to deliver a satisfying and colorful dish.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: trimmed and cut bite-sized for quick, even cooking and tender bites.
Olive oil: the perfect heart-healthy fat that helps brown the chicken and meld the flavors together.
Garlic powder & onion powder: these spices add a savory depth without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
Salt and pepper: essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the natural flavors.
Diced tomatoes (canned): bring rich tomato flavor and saucy texture with their juices.
Fresh cherry tomatoes: add bright bursts of sweetness and color to the skillet.
Spinach: a nutritious green that wilts beautifully and adds a fresh, earthy note.
Fresh basil leaves: the aromatic herb that elevates the dish with its sweet and slightly peppery essence.
Grated Parmesan cheese: melts into the sauce for creaminess and a savory punch.
Italian seasoning: blends herbs like oregano and thyme for a classic Italian flavor profile.
Chicken broth (optional): helps adjust the sauce consistency while adding subtle richness.

How to Make Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by tossing the bite-sized chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning mix lays the flavor foundation and ensures each piece is tasty before it even hits the pan.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add your seasoned chicken. Cook it until beautifully golden brown on the outside, about 5 to 7 minutes. Browning the chicken not only locks in juices but also adds a wonderful caramelized flavor.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning

Lower the heat to medium and pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes along with their juices. Then, stir in the fresh cherry tomatoes and Italian seasoning, mixing everything well. Let this simmer gently for about 5 minutes so the tomatoes meld with the chicken.

Step 4: Incorporate the Greens

Next, add the spinach and basil leaves to the skillet. These fresh greens wilt down quickly, brightening the dish with their vibrant color and slightly sweet, peppery notes. Cook for just 2 to 3 minutes until the greens are tender.

Step 5: Melt in the Parmesan

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the skillet, then stir to combine. The cheese melts into the sauce, lending a creamy texture and a punch of salty, nutty flavor that ties everything together beautifully.

Step 6: Adjust the Sauce

If you find the tomato sauce too thick, simply add a splash of chicken broth and stir until you achieve your preferred consistency. Taste and adjust salt and pepper accordingly — this final step ensures the dish is perfectly balanced and saucy.

How to Serve Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet Recipe

A black pan with a red handle sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a cooked dish of five light brown pieces of chicken layered with bright red cooked cherry tomatoes and scattered green herbs on top. The chicken pieces are mostly covered by the tomato sauce that has a slightly chunky texture with visible herbs and spices mixed in, giving it a rich look. A piece of light brown cheese block is in the background, and small green herb pieces are scattered lightly around the pan and on the surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or a few extra shavings of Parmesan cheese on top will brighten the presentation and enhance the fresh, herby flavors already present in the dish. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving adds a silky finish.

Side Dishes

This skillet meal pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up the flavorful sauce. Consider crusty whole-grain bread, creamy polenta, or garlic-infused quinoa for extra texture and to round out your meal beautifully. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette also complements the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet Recipe straight from the pan for a rustic, family-style experience, or plate it with a nest of freshly cooked pasta or cauliflower rice to turn it into a heartier entrée. Garnishing with edible flowers or microgreens can add an elegant touch for entertaining guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making it an excellent next-day lunch or dinner option with minimal effort.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, but for best texture, it’s recommended to do so without the fresh spinach and basil, adding them fresh upon reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months to enjoy later.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwave reheating is fine as well; just cover loosely to retain moisture and stir occasionally for even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs provide a richer flavor and stay juicy when cooked, making them a delicious alternative in the Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet Recipe.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. The dish will still be flavorful thanks to the tomatoes and herbs.

Can I add other vegetables to this skillet?

Definitely. Sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can be added when you sauté the chicken to bump up the veggie content and add more textures and nutrients.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe is mild by default, focusing on fresh tomato and herb flavors. If you want a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while adding the tomatoes.

What kind of tomatoes work best?

The canned diced tomatoes provide a rich base for the sauce, while fresh cherry tomatoes add sweetness and texture. Using ripe, high-quality tomatoes overall will ensure the best taste.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Chicken Pomodoro Skillet Recipe is one of those rare meals that manages to feel indulgent yet light, fresh yet comforting. It’s easy to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and truly a joy to eat. I hope you’ll give it a try soon and make it a favorite in your own kitchen as it is in mine!