Craving a delicious and healthy chicken dinner? This One-Pot Tomato Basil Chicken recipe delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup. You’ll love how simple and satisfying this dish is, perfect for any weeknight meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best.
- Tomatoes: Use canned diced tomatoes for convenience. Fresh, chopped tomatoes can also be used.
- Basil: Fresh basil is essential for flavor, but dried basil can be substituted in a pinch (use less).
- Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a boost of nutrients. Kale or other leafy greens can be used instead.
- Pasta: Any short pasta like penne or rotini is great, or try whole wheat pasta for an even healthier option.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz dry short pasta (like penne or rotini)
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 420 calories
- Tools Needed: Large Dutch oven or deep skillet with a lid
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil in your Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. You don’t need to cook it through, just get a nice sear. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the same pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds extra flavor to your healthy chicken dinner.
4. Cook the Pasta
Add the dry pasta to the simmering liquid. Return the chicken to the pot. Stir everything well, cover, and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Finish with Freshness
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and chopped basil. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a handful of sliced mushrooms when sautéing the onion for extra earthy flavor.
- Stir in a can of drained cannellini beans for added protein and fiber.
- Top with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Swap out spinach for baby kale or chard for a different green.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover One-Pot Tomato Basil Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make this recipe ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare this a day in advance. The pasta might absorb more liquid, so you may need to add a splash of broth when reheating.
What if you don’t have fresh basil?
You can use about 2 tablespoons of dried basil, but add it with the oregano in step 2 for the best flavor. Fresh basil provides a brighter taste.
Can you use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great healthy choice for this dish. Cooking time might vary slightly, so check for al dente doneness.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
You can freeze leftovers, though the pasta texture may change slightly upon thawing. Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating.
How can you make this spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the spices.
Can you use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and often stay more moist. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed to ensure they are cooked through. This is a versatile healthy chicken dinner idea.