Description
A flavorful and easy Italian Basil Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breasts sautéed with garlic, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of balsamic vinegar. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal served with pasta, rice, or salad.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Additional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano to enhance the flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add tomatoes and spices: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Incorporate vinegar and basil: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and chopped fresh basil, cooking for an additional minute to blend the flavors.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the tomato and basil mixture over the top to coat the chicken.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the chicken and allow it to melt slightly.
- Serve: Serve the chicken warm, accompanied by your choice of pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh cherry tomatoes for the best flavor; canned tomatoes can alter texture.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a rich umami taste when melted over the chicken.
- To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, pound the breasts to an even thickness if needed.
- This dish pairs well with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
