Skillet Balsamic Tomato Chicken – A Savory, Tangy Delight with Juicy Chicken and Fresh Tomatoes

This Skillet Balsamic Tomato Chicken is the perfect combination of simple ingredients that come together in a flavorful dish you'll want to make again and again! With tender, golden-browned chicken breasts or thighs served over a rich balsamic-tomato sauce, each bite is bursting with flavor. The fresh basil adds a lovely touch of freshness, making this dish taste like a gourmet meal without the hassle. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to win hearts and satisfy appetites.

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Skillet Balsamic Tomato Chicken

This dish draws inspiration from classic Italian flavors that marry beautifully—fresh tomatoes, savory chicken, tangy balsamic vinegar, and a touch of garlic. It’s a delicious twist on the traditional tomato sauce, with the balsamic vinegar lending a slight sweetness and depth to the sauce. The best part? This dish is made entirely in one skillet, meaning fewer dishes and more flavor concentrated in each bite. It’s a weeknight-friendly recipe that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love Skillet Balsamic Tomato Chicken

• Quick and Easy: With just one skillet and 30 minutes, you can have a gourmet meal on the table that feels special and homemade.
• Rich in Flavor: The balsamic vinegar gives the tomato sauce a unique depth, balancing sweet and savory in every bite.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish holds up beautifully as leftovers, so make extra and enjoy it throughout the week!

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 2 Servings):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 55g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 3g

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Skillet Balsamic Tomato Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a low-carb option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or cauliflower. If you’re craving something more filling, try it with creamy mashed potatoes, a side of fluffy rice, or over a bed of pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad with vinaigrette also adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat and warm through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on high for about 1-2 minutes until heated. This dish also freezes well—just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the freezer, and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Fun Fact: The Magic of Balsamic Vinegar

Balsamic vinegar originates from Italy, specifically the Modena and Reggio Emilia regions. It’s made from reduced grape must (freshly crushed grape juice) and aged in barrels for years to develop its complex flavors. This sweet and tangy vinegar is often used in salad dressings, marinades, and sauces, adding a rich depth of flavor to both sweet and savory dishes.

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Cooking Tips

• Pound the Chicken: For even cooking and the perfect sear, make sure to pound the chicken breasts or thighs to an even ½-inch thickness before cooking.
• Deglaze the Pan: When you add the tomatoes, broth, and vinegar to the skillet, make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this adds tons of flavor to the sauce!
• Balance the Acidity: If your tomatoes are a bit too acidic, feel free to add a pinch of sugar to the sauce to balance it out.

Optional Variations

• Cheesy Topping: For an extra layer of richness, top the chicken with mozzarella or Parmesan cheese before serving.
• Add Veggies: Throw in some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers when you add the tomatoes for a heartier dish.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle kick.

Skillet Balsamic Tomato Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 4 chicken thighs, patted dry
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup diced yellow or white onion
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes, drained
• ½ cup chicken broth or stock
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil

Instructions:

1. Pound the chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound to an even ½-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken, top side down, and cook for about 5 minutes or until golden brown. Flip the chicken and continue cooking until the other side is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
3. Cook the aromatics: If the skillet is dry, add a little more oil. Add the diced onion and a big pinch of salt. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Make the sauce: Add the drained tomatoes, chicken broth, and balsamic vinegar to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the liquid has mostly evaporated. Taste the sauce and add up to ½ teaspoon salt if needed. If the sauce is too acidic, stir in a pinch of sugar.
5. Finish the sauce: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the butter until it’s fully melted. Add the chopped basil and any clear juices that have accumulated from the chicken. Taste and adjust for seasoning.
6. Serve: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, and enjoy the delicious, tangy flavors of this balsamic tomato chicken!

Skillet Balsamic Tomato Chicken is a deliciously easy and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. With the savory tang of balsamic vinegar, the freshness of tomatoes, and the richness of golden-browned chicken, every bite is a comforting burst of flavor!