As I unwrapped my groceries from a hectic day, the sight of fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes sparked a craving for something comforting yet vibrant. Enter my Skillet Chicken Thighs with Creamy Tomato Basil Spinach Sauce—a dish that dances effortlessly between rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. This 30-minute recipe brings tender chicken thighs to life in a luscious creamy tomato sauce that’s gluten-free and quick enough for any busy weeknight. The combination of garlic, basil, and spinach transforms simple ingredients into a family-friendly meal everyone will love. Picture the aroma filling your kitchen as you savor your first bite. Ready to whip up this delightful dish and elevate your dinner game?
Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?
Quick, Simple Preparation: This recipe brings together basic cooking techniques, allowing busy home chefs to create a gourmet meal in just 30 minutes.
Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The heavenly blend of creamy tomato and aromatic basil elevates the dish, leaving your taste buds singing with every bite.
Nutrient-Packed Goodness: Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and essential nutrients, making this dish not just delicious but also wholesome.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore this comforting comfort food, ensuring it becomes a staple in your household. For more delicious recipes, check out my Marry Chicken Pasta or Chicken Tortilla Soup.
Versatile & Flexible: Feel free to add extras like capers or sun-dried tomatoes to customize the dish to your liking. Enjoy the freedom to switch things up!
Skillet Chicken Thighs with Creamy Tomato Ingredients
• A delightful mix of flavors and nutrition!
For the Sauce
- Olive oil – A healthy fat for cooking; avocado oil can also be used for a higher smoke point.
- Tomato sauce (8 oz) – The base for our creamy sauce; marinara or tomato puree can serve as great substitutes.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced) – Provides aromatic flavor; always opt for fresh garlic for the best results.
- Heavy cream (½ cup) – Adds richness; try half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter twist.
- Fresh spinach (4 oz) – Brings color and nutrients; feel free to swap it for kale or Swiss chard if preferred.
- Fresh basil (4 leaves or ÂĽ tsp dried basil) – Offers fresh herb flavor; Italian seasoning can be substituted if fresh isn’t available.
- Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances flavors, but adjust to your taste preference.
- Pepper (¼ tsp) – Adds a touch of heat; omit it for a milder flavor.
For the Chicken
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs (1.5 lb) – The main protein star; chicken breasts are an option but may dry out.
For Topping
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup) – Garnishes the dish with a delightful salty creaminess; use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
This Skillet Chicken Thighs with Creamy Tomato dish not only promises a burst of flavors but also a quick path to satisfying your culinary cravings on busy weeknights!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Skillet Chicken Thighs with Creamy Tomato
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the oil to shimmer for about 2 minutes, indicating it’s hot enough. This initial step sets the stage for perfectly seared chicken thighs—a delicious golden brown exterior is what you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Season and Sear Chicken
While the skillet is heating, generously season 1.5 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Once the oil is ready, carefully place the chicken thighs into the skillet. Cook them for about 5 minutes until the top side is nicely seared and golden brown, then flip and sear the other side for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 3: Remove Chicken
Once the chicken thighs are golden and cooked through, with no pink remaining, transfer them to a plate and cover them to keep warm. This will prevent them from drying out as you prepare the creamy tomato sauce. Make sure to leave the drippings in the skillet for flavor!
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in 8 ounces of tomato sauce, 2 minced garlic cloves, and ½ cup of heavy cream. Stir to blend the flavors and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat for about 2 minutes. As it simmers, use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan, incorporating those flavorful bits into the sauce.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Basil
Reduce the heat to low and add 4 ounces of fresh spinach and 4 leaves of fresh basil to the sauce. Stir the ingredients until the spinach has wilted and is tender, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step infuses the creamy tomato sauce with vibrant color and fresh herb flavor, making your Skillet Chicken Thighs truly delectable.
Step 6: Reheat and Serve
Finally, return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them gently into the creamy sauce. Cook everything together for an additional 3-4 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. As the sauce envelops the chicken, it’s almost ready to be served!
Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy
Before serving, sprinkle ÂĽ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken for an extra layer of richness. Spoon the flavorful creamy sauce generously over each thigh. With its alluring aroma and enticing presentation, your Skillet Chicken Thighs with Creamy Tomato is ready to delight everyone at the dinner table!
Skillet Chicken Thighs with Creamy Tomato Variations
Feel free to get creative and put your personal touch on this delicious recipe!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream for a rich, dairy-free option. You’ll still enjoy a creamy texture!
- Veggie Boost: Add in chopped bell peppers or zucchini to the skillet along with spinach to enhance nutrition and flavor. Picture a rainbow of colors on your plate!
- Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an exciting heat that balances perfectly with the creamy sauce. Perfect for spice lovers!
- Herb Variation: Swap basil for fresh parsley or thyme for a new twist on flavor. Each herb brings its unique bouquet to your dish, refreshing your taste buds.
- Texture Twist: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an added crunch that beautifully contrasts the creaminess of the sauce. It’s a delightful surprise in every bite!
- Pasta Addition: Stir in freshly cooked pasta or spiralized zucchini to the sauce for a heartier meal that’s still light and comforting. Serve it as a cozy family-friendly pasta night!
- Frozen Spinach: Use frozen spinach instead of fresh; just be sure to squeeze out extra moisture before adding it to the sauce. Quick and easy with a copious nutrient profile!
- Exotic Flavors: Add a teaspoon of curry powder or smoked paprika to the sauce for a uniquely savory flavor twist that will make your taste buds dance. It’s an unexpected delight!
For more mouth-watering inspiration, try my Buffalo Chicken Bombs or explore my Alice Springs Chicken recipe!
What to Serve with Skillet Chicken Thighs with Creamy Tomato
Every delightful bite of chicken thighs swimming in creamy tomato sauce calls for companions that elevate the meal to new heights.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery mashed potatoes provide a velvety texture that perfectly balances the richness of the sauce, making each mouthful exquisite.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of that luscious creamy sauce. Your family will fight over the last slice!
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Steamed Broccoli: The fresh, slightly crisp flavor of broccoli adds a lovely contrast, bringing vibrant color and crunch to your dinner plate while enhancing its nutrient profile.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette not only provides a refreshing bite but also cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce, making for a well-rounded meal.
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Parmesan Risotto: This creamy, cheesy dish echoes the flavors in your main course while introducing a luxurious texture. The comforting nature of risotto is sure to impress!
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Red Wine: A glass of rich, fruity red wine like Chianti perfectly complements the flavors of the creamy tomato sauce, deepening your culinary experience while creating a cozy dining atmosphere.
Expert Tips for Skillet Chicken Thighs
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Perfect Searing: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding chicken to achieve a golden brown crust. Undercooking may result in pale, unappetizing meat.
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Scrape Up Flavor: Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the skillet while making the sauce. This incorporates the fond, enhancing the flavor of your skillet chicken thighs.
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Don’t Rush Cooking: Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures your chicken is safe to eat while remaining juicy and tender.
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Creamy Consistency: For the perfect sauce texture, keep the heat low after adding spinach and basil. A high heat can cause cream to separate.
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Customize Flavor: Feel free to experiment! Add capers, sun-dried tomatoes, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist to your skillet chicken thighs with creamy tomato bliss.
Make Ahead Options
These Skillet Chicken Thighs with Creamy Tomato Basil Spinach Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and sear the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, placing them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh and flavorful. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy tomato sauce—just combine the tomato sauce, garlic, and cream, then refrigerate it separately (this prevents the cream from curdling). When you’re ready to serve, simply sautĂ© the wilted spinach and basil in the sauce, return the chicken to the skillet, and heat everything together until warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort during busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Skillet Chicken Thighs
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid breaking the creamy sauce.
Freezer: To freeze, place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stove until warmed through, keeping the heat low to preserve the creamy texture. Enjoy your Skillet Chicken Thighs with Creamy Tomato even after storage!
Skillet Chicken Thighs with Creamy Tomato Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my tomatoes are ripe?
Absolutely! Look for tomatoes that feel slightly soft when gently squeezed, have a rich color (red, yellow, or even purple depending on the variety), and taste slightly sweet. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkling, as these indicate overripeness.
What is the best way to store leftover Skillet Chicken Thighs with Creamy Tomato?
After allowing leftovers to cool, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the creamy sauce’s texture without breaking it.
Can I freeze the Skillet Chicken Thighs with Creamy Tomato?
Absolutely! After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, transfer the chicken and sauce into a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on low heat until warmed through.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce seems too thin, don’t worry—this can happen! Here’s what to do: let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the sauce, heating until thickened.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Yes, indeed! You can easily modify it for those with dairy restrictions. Use a dairy-free cream alternative, like coconut cream or cashew cream, and substitute the grated Parmesan with nutritional yeast. It will still be deliciously creamy without the dairy!
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Of course, you can! However, keep in mind that chicken breasts may dry out if overcooked. If opting for breasts, I recommend cooking them a little less time than indicated to maintain juiciness—about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Enjoy experimenting!
Skillet Chicken Thighs with Creamy Tomato Bliss in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the skillet by adding olive oil and letting it shimmer for about 2 minutes.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear in the skillet for about 5 minutes on each side.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and cover to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, combine tomato sauce, garlic, and heavy cream; bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat and add spinach and basil, stirring until the spinach wilts.
- Return chicken to the skillet, cook together for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
