Description
This Simple Italian Basil Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish featuring juicy pan-seared chicken breast with garlic, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of balsamic vinegar. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s light, healthy, and packed with classic Italian flavors. Serve it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in balsamic vinegar and fresh basil. Cook for another minute.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spooning the tomato mixture over the top.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan (if using) and let it melt.
- Serve warm with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
Notes
For extra greens, add spinach with the tomatoes.
To make it creamy, stir in a splash of heavy cream before adding the chicken back.
Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different variation.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 servings
- Calories: 280 kcal
