This creamy basil chicken skillet is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful weeknight meal. It’s packed with fresh summer ingredients like corn, tomatoes, and basil, creating a vibrant and satisfying dish the whole family will love. Forget complicated recipes; this one-pan wonder is ready in under 30 minutes!
What Makes This Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet So Special?
This recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Simplicity: One pan, minimal cleanup! Everything cooks together, saving you time and effort.
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of juicy chicken, sweet corn, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil is a summer symphony of taste.
- Creamy Texture: A touch of cream adds richness and elevates the dish beyond a simple chicken and vegetable stir-fry.
- Versatility: Easily adaptable to your preferences and what's in season. Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken cubes generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened (about 3 minutes). Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the corn and tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Return Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Stir in Basil: Stir in the fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or quinoa, or enjoy it as is!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Absolutely! Diced tomatoes, Roma tomatoes (chopped), or even sun-dried tomatoes would work well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time depending on the type of tomato you use. Sun-dried tomatoes will require less cooking time as they are already partially dehydrated.
What if I don't have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even coconut milk for a different flavor profile. The sauce will be slightly less rich, but still delicious.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. Add them along with the corn and tomatoes. Keep in mind that some vegetables may require a bit more cooking time than others.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply combine everything in the skillet and heat through, adding the cream and cheese at the end.
How can I make this spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicier kick.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you use gluten-free pasta or rice if serving over grains. Always check ingredient labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
This Creamy Basil Chicken Skillet with Corn and Tomato is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Its fresh flavors and creamy texture will make it a new family favorite in no time! Enjoy!
