Chicken Pomodoro Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with the irresistible simplicity and bold flavors of Chicken Pomodoro. This Italian-inspired dish features juicy chicken breasts simmered in a vibrant cherry tomato sauce with garlic and fresh basil, all finished with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. With just thirty minutes needed from start to finish, Chicken Pomodoro makes weeknight dinners feel truly special without a lot of fuss. There’s a certain magic in how these everyday ingredients transform into a rustic, elegant meal that bursts with color and flavor.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Chicken Pomodoro truly shine is how every ingredient works together to build layers of flavor and color. Each item here is easy to find, and it’s their quality and pairing that create such a lively, memorable dish.

• Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking and lean protein.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors in both the chicken and sauce.
• Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and rounds out the seasoning.
• Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs (like oregano and thyme) for authentic Mediterranean flair.
• Olive oil: Gives richness to the chicken and helps caramelize the tomatoes.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is non-negotiable for its irresistible aroma and savory depth.
• Cherry tomatoes: Halved for easy bursting in the pan, these are the sweet, juicy heart of the Pomodoro sauce.
• Dry white wine or chicken broth: Brings brightness and balances the sauce; each offers a slightly different character.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For anyone who loves a hint of spicy warmth.
• Fresh basil leaves: Chopped and sprinkled right before serving for a pop of herbal freshness.
• Parmesan cheese: A finishing touch that adds salty, nutty flavor and ties everything together.

How to Make Chicken Pomodoro

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Begin by patting your chicken breasts dry, which helps them sear beautifully. Sprinkle both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. This quick seasoning is the foundation of the dish—don’t skimp, as it sets up the chicken to soak up all the flavors from the sauce later.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, carefully add the chicken breasts. Let them cook without fussing for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, developing a golden, flavorful crust. Once cooked through (juice runs clear and a thermometer reads 165°F), move the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep warm.

Step 3: Build the Pomodoro Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and, in the same skillet, add your minced garlic. Sauté for just thirty seconds; you want it fragrant but not browned. Quickly add the halved cherry tomatoes, white wine (or chicken broth), and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling bold. Stir and cook for 5 to 7 minutes. The tomatoes will begin to burst, creating a fresh, chunky sauce that’s the soul of Chicken Pomodoro.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into that bubbling tomato sauce. Use a spoon to generously ladle the sauce over each piece, then simmer for another 2 minutes. This last step melds all the flavors, letting the herbs, juices, and tomatoes become one with the chicken.

Step 5: Add Basil and Parmesan

Right before serving, turn off the heat and scatter fresh chopped basil leaves over the skillet, followed by a shower of grated Parmesan cheese. The basil adds a garden-bright finish, and the salty Parmesan melts in a little, making every bite incredibly savory.

How to Serve Chicken Pomodoro

Garnishes

Finish your Chicken Pomodoro with a little extra fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. If you love a citrusy touch, a zesting of lemon is fantastic here, too. The intense green of basil and pale golden-white of cheese make your dinner not just tasty, but downright beautiful.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Pomodoro is nothing short of dreamy served over a tangle of al dente pasta, creamy risotto, or fluffy rice that soaks up the sauce. Crusty bread is also perfect for sopping up every last drop, and a simple green salad rounds out the meal with some crunch and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the chicken and layering it over toasted bread for an Italian-inspired open-faced sandwich, or pile it atop a bowl of cooked farro or quinoa for a slightly rustic twist. Presenting the sauce in a small pitcher on the side lets diners drizzle to their heart’s content.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftover Chicken Pomodoro (with all its glorious sauce) to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious for next-day lunches or busy weeknight dinners.

Freezing

You can easily freeze Chicken Pomodoro for longer storage. Allow the dish to cool completely, then pack it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 2 months—just know the tomatoes will soften more when thawed, but the bright flavor remains.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep the sauce loose. Alternatively, microwave in 1-minute bursts, covered, until heated through for a quick solo lunch.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken pieces instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken will add even more flavor and stay extra juicy, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and check for doneness before adding the sauce back in.

What’s the best substitute for cherry tomatoes?

If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, canned whole or diced tomatoes (drained a bit) or even ripe, chopped Roma tomatoes work beautifully. Just aim for tomatoes that are juicy and sweet for the best Chicken Pomodoro experience.

Is it possible to make Chicken Pomodoro dairy-free?

Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or try a dairy-free alternative; the tomato, garlic, and basil flavors are so lively that you won’t miss the cheese unless you’re a true Parmesan lover!

How can I make this dish spicy?

You can easily adjust the heat level by adding more red pepper flakes to the sauce, or even a pinch of cayenne. Serve with extra flakes on the side for spice-loving diners.

Can I prepare Chicken Pomodoro ahead of time?

Yes, this dish reheats incredibly well, making it a perfect meal to prepare in advance. Slightly undercook the chicken during the first round, then finish it in the Pomodoro sauce just before serving for maximum juiciness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that brings a bit of sunshine to your table any night of the week, Chicken Pomodoro is your answer. Simple to make, full of color, and absolutely bursting with tomato and basil, this recipe is one you’ll be proud to share and return to time and again. Gather your ingredients and let your kitchen fill with the fresh, inviting aroma of this Italian classic—you won’t regret it!

Print