Are you ready to cook up an easy and tasty meal? My Creamy Tomato Parmesan Chicken One Pot Delight is the perfect dish for busy nights. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a rich and creamy sauce that hugs tender chicken and bright tomatoes. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything is made in one pot! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
Additional Ingredients
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 cup chicken broth
Dairy and Seasonings
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Gathering these ingredients is simple. Start with the chicken. Boneless and skinless makes it easy to cook. Then, grab some olive oil. This helps to sear the chicken and adds flavor. You will also need an onion. A finely chopped onion adds sweetness to the sauce.
Next, garlic is a must. It brings a strong, bold taste. You’ll need a can of diced tomatoes. The juice adds moisture and flavor. Don’t forget the chicken broth for extra depth.
For the creamy goodness, heavy cream is key. It makes the sauce rich and smooth. Parmesan cheese adds that cheesy flavor we all love. Finally, dried basil and oregano give the dish its herbaceous notes. Season with salt and pepper to make it all pop!
This list makes the perfect meal in one pot. You can easily find all these items at your local store. Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
– Step 1: Season and sear the chicken
First, take your chicken breasts. Season them with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want it golden brown. This step adds flavor and a nice texture.
– Step 2: Remove chicken and set aside
After searing, use tongs to remove the chicken from the pot. Set it aside on a plate. This helps keep it juicy while you make the sauce.
Building the Sauce
– Step 3: Sauté onion until translucent
In the same pot, add your finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes. Cook until the onion turns translucent. This will create a flavorful base for your sauce.
– Step 4: Add garlic and diced tomatoes
Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for another minute until it smells great. Then, pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juice. This adds texture and a fresh taste to your sauce.
Combining Ingredients
– Step 5: Add chicken broth and return chicken to the pot
Now, add one cup of chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Return the seared chicken to the pot. Cover it and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This ensures the chicken cooks through and absorbs all the flavors.
– Step 6: Make the creamy sauce with heavy cream and Parmesan
After 15 minutes, take the chicken out again and set it aside. Stir in one cup of heavy cream and one cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce. Mix it well until smooth. Add the chicken back in and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. This melds all the flavors together beautifully.
Now you have a rich, creamy sauce that coats the chicken perfectly!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To get perfect chicken, make sure your oil is hot. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side. Look for a nice golden brown color. This adds flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.
For a creamy sauce, add the heavy cream slowly. Stir it in well to mix with the other ingredients. The Parmesan cheese will help thicken the sauce, so let it melt completely. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of chicken broth.
Seasoning Suggestions
Taste your sauce before serving. You can add more salt or pepper if needed. If you like heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. This will give your dish a nice kick. You can also add a bit more dried basil or oregano for extra flavor.
Presentation Tips
Garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves. This not only looks pretty but adds fresh flavor too. For serving, place the creamy tomato Parmesan chicken on a large platter.
You can serve it with cooked pasta like penne or fusilli. A side of garlic bread or a simple salad works well too. This makes your meal feel complete and satisfying.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
If you want to switch things up, try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a nice flavor. Tofu gives a great texture and is perfect for plant-based diets. When it comes to cheese, you can swap Parmesan for mozzarella or even goat cheese. Each cheese brings a new twist to the dish.
Cooking Methods
You can make this creamy tomato Parmesan chicken in an Instant Pot. Just sear the chicken first, then add the other ingredients. Set it to pressure cook for about 10 minutes. For a slow cooker, sear the chicken, then add all ingredients to the pot. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Both methods keep the chicken tender and flavorful.
Dietary Accommodations
If you need a gluten-free dish, you can use gluten-free pasta or skip it altogether. Check labels on chicken broth to ensure it’s gluten-free. For dairy-free options, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy. These swaps help everyone enjoy this meal.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers, let the dish cool down first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh. The creamy tomato parmesan chicken lasts about three to four days in the fridge. Make sure to label the container with the date.
Freezing Tips
Yes, you can freeze creamy tomato parmesan chicken. Just follow these steps for best results. First, cool the dish completely before freezing. Place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last about three months in the freezer.
To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, warm it gently on the stove. Add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry. Stir until it’s heated through. This way, you’ll keep the creamy texture and rich flavor.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Make sure to thaw it first for even cooking. I recommend letting it sit in the fridge overnight. This helps it cook evenly and stay juicy.
What can I serve with Creamy Tomato Parmesan Chicken?
You can serve this dish with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. The creamy sauce pairs well with all these options. It makes your meal feel complete and satisfying.
Ingredient-Specific Questions
Can I substitute fresh tomatoes for canned tomatoes?
Yes, fresh tomatoes work well if you chop them. Use about 2-3 medium-sized tomatoes. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may need longer to cook down and release their juices.
What type of pasta pairs best with this dish?
Penne or fusilli pasta pairs best with this creamy sauce. These shapes hold onto the sauce nicely. You can also use your favorite pasta for a personal touch.
Cooking Process Questions
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F. You can also cut into the thickest part. The meat should look white, not pink.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead. Just store it in the fridge after cooking. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave. The flavors will meld even more, making it taste great!
This blog post shared a simple and tasty recipe for Creamy Tomato Parmesan Chicken. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and variations. You can easily swap ingredients or change cooking methods for your taste and needs. Remember to store leftovers properly, so they stay fresh. With this recipe, you can impress your family and friends with a delicious meal. Happy cooking! Enjoy your dish and let your taste buds shine.
