Creamy Tomato Chicken Skillet

Name: Creamy Tomato Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Recipes

I absolutely love whipping up this Creamy Tomato Chicken Skillet for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s a one-pan dish that gives you tender chicken in a luscious tomato cream sauce, all ready in just about 30 minutes! The combination of juicy chicken and the rich flavors of garlic, tomatoes, and cream makes it a delightful meal that my family always looks forward to. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with pasta or rice, soaking up all those incredible flavors.

Created by

Quincy Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:45:35.447Z

When I first made this Creamy Tomato Chicken Skillet, I was amazed by how simple yet flavorful it turned out. The secret is to use high-quality crushed tomatoes and a splash of cream, which creates a rich, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken. I remember cooking it for the first time on a busy weeknight, and my kids couldn’t get enough!

To enhance the flavor, I like to add fresh basil at the end, giving a wonderful aromatic touch. This dish not only satisfies my family’s hunger but also allows us to enjoy a restaurant-style meal at home without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy tomato sauce that’s bursting with flavor
Quick and easy preparation in just one skillet
A comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this Creamy Tomato Chicken Skillet, selecting the right chicken is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, as they cook evenly and remain tender. If you prefer a richer taste, you can substitute with chicken thighs, which can add a deeper flavor and juiciness to the dish. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through, about 7-10 minutes per side.

Another key factor is ensuring your chicken is at room temperature before cooking. This helps achieve an even sear and avoids the issue of the exterior cooking faster than the inside. If you're short on time, simply take the chicken out of the refrigerator 15 to 20 minutes before cooking to warm up slightly.

Perfecting the Tomato Sauce

The crushed tomatoes play a vital role in building the flavor of this dish. For the best results, opt for high-quality canned tomatoes, as they provide a robust base for the sauce. San Marzano tomatoes are a fantastic choice due to their sweetness and lower acidity. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to the sauce as it cooks to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Don't rush the simmering process! Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 5 minutes after adding the tomatoes and herbs, which helps deepen the flavors and get rid of any raw-tomato taste. Look for the sauce to thicken slightly and become glossy, indicating it's ready for the cream and chicken.

Serving and Storing Tips

This Creamy Tomato Chicken Skillet pairs beautifully with both pasta and rice, making it versatile for family meals. Consider using whole grain pasta or quinoa for a healthier option. If you want to make it a bit heartier, toss in some steamed vegetables like spinach or zucchini just before serving, adding nutrition and vibrant colors to your dish.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, I recommend doing so gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the cream from breaking. You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the dish:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Make sure to prepare everything before you start cooking for ease.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious meal:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the dried oregano. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Add Cream and Combine

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it in the sauce, letting it simmer together for 2-3 minutes to warm through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm over pasta or rice for a complete meal.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in some Italian seasoning for a few hours before cooking. This can elevate the overall taste of the dish even more.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative, like coconut cream or cashew cream. While this may alter the flavor slightly, it can still provide a satisfying richness. Just be cautious, as these substitutes may not thicken the sauce as effectively, so you might need to let it simmer a bit longer.

For those who want to add a little heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. This addition will create a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes beautifully. Alternatively, if you are avoiding dairy entirely, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy, umami flavor when sprinkled on the finished dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the sauce seems too thin after adding the cream, don't worry! Let it simmer for a few more minutes, allowing it to reduce further and thicken up. Alternatively, you can whisk in a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and cold water) and bring it to a gentle simmer until desired consistency is achieved.

Should the chicken breast tend to dry out, consider marinating it in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will enhance the moisture and flavor, resulting in a juicy chicken finish. Always check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F to ensure it’s well-cooked and safe to eat.

Variations on the Dish

For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding sliced olives and feta cheese to the finished dish. These tangy ingredients complement the creamy tomato sauce perfectly and can elevate the flavor profile to new heights. You could also throw in some capers while simmering the sauce for an added burst of flavor.

Another delicious variation is to incorporate different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, in place of or in addition to oregano. Fresh herbs can enhance the dish's brightness and freshness. Just remember to adjust the quantities according to your taste, and add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their aromatic qualities.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and bring extra moisture and flavor.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative if you want a lighter option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the prepared dish for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.