easy one-pan basil halloumi chicken with tomatoes Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant, flavor-packed dinner that comes together in a flash and leaves hardly any dishes behind, this easy one-pan basil halloumi chicken with tomatoes is about to become your new weeknight favorite. Brimming with juicy chicken, golden halloumi, sweet roasted tomatoes, and the lush aroma of fresh basil, it’s the sort of meal that looks and tastes like something you’d order at a trendy bistro—yet it’s delightfully low-effort and absolutely doable, even on your busiest evenings.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of easy one-pan basil halloumi chicken with tomatoes is its grocery-list simplicity—just a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients that each bring their own flair to the party. Every element helps craft layers of flavor and color that work deliciously together.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Go for boneless, skinless pieces for speedy cooking and tender, juicy results.
• Halloumi cheese: This squeaky, briny cheese chars beautifully, adding irresistible chewy bites in every forkful.
• Cherry tomatoes: Little bursts of sweetness that blister and caramelize to create a gorgeous sauce right in the pan.
• Olive oil: A drizzle brings everything together and encourages those golden, crispy edges.
• Fresh basil leaves: Stirred in at the end, basil delivers that fragrant pop of green, tying all the flavors together.
• Garlic cloves: Just a couple will infuse the oil and veggies with mellow, savory warmth.
• Salt and pepper: To make every ingredient sing, don’t forget a good pinch of each.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick, sprinkle on a few—but only if you love a little heat.

How to Make easy one-pan basil halloumi chicken with tomatoes

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before you get the pan sizzling, take a moment to slice the halloumi into thick planks, halve your cherry tomatoes, mince the garlic, and chop (or simply tear) your basil leaves. Season the chicken with a good hit of salt and pepper—this helps lock in flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large, oven-safe skillet or frying pan, warm a generous swirl of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and let it sizzle undisturbed until the underside goes golden and releases easily, about 4-5 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes; the chicken should be almost cooked through, but not dry. Transfer the chicken to a plate while you work on the rest.

Step 3: Char the Halloumi

In the same pan, arrange your halloumi slices in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until deeply golden and slightly crispy—you’ll see gorgeous caramelization and smell that rich, toasty cheese scent. Don’t rush; a good sear on the halloumi makes all the difference for this easy one-pan basil halloumi chicken with tomatoes.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Garlic

Add a small splash of olive oil if the pan looks dry, then toss in your garlic and cherry tomatoes. Let them cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes blister and collapse, releasing sweet, jammy juices. This should take just 5-7 minutes, and you’ll start to see the beginnings of a beautiful pan sauce.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Nestle the chicken (along with any juices) back into the pan among the tomatoes and halloumi. If using, sprinkle over some red pepper flakes. Slide the whole pan into a preheated oven (about 400°F/200°C) for an additional 8-10 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and everything is bubbling happily. Just before serving, scatter over the fresh basil—there’s the magic touch that transforms this dish from simple to spectacular.

How to Serve easy one-pan basil halloumi chicken with tomatoes

Garnishes

Sprinkle a handful of torn or chopped fresh basil leaves over everything right before serving for an herbaceous finish. If you adore a glossy look, a final drizzle of good olive oil makes the colors pop and keeps every bite luscious. For an extra flourish, a crack of black pepper and a zest of lemon can brighten up the whole plate.

Side Dishes

This easy one-pan basil halloumi chicken with tomatoes is super satisfying on its own, but it plays beautifully with a side of fluffy couscous, orzo, or warm crusty bread to mop up those savory tomato juices. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness and brings that perfect fresh element to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling a bit playful, serve the chicken sliced over a big platter of couscous or toss everything with cooked pasta. For a Mediterranean-inspired twist, pile the contents onto toasted flatbreads, creating hearty open-faced sandwiches. However you present it, easy one-pan basil halloumi chicken with tomatoes never fails to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tomatoes and halloumi soak up even more flavor overnight, making for a delicious quick lunch the next day.

Freezing

While the chicken and tomato components of easy one-pan basil halloumi chicken with tomatoes freeze well for up to 2 months, halloumi’s unique texture can become a bit chewy or rubbery after thawing. If you plan to freeze, consider adding fresh halloumi when reheating for the best results.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftovers in a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the sauce. Warm over medium heat until thoroughly heated. For microwave reheating, cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring between each to avoid overcooking the halloumi or drying out your chicken.

FAQs

Can I use another cheese if I can’t find halloumi?

While halloumi’s firm, grillable nature is key for this recipe, you could substitute paneer or thick slices of feta for a similar feel. Just note that these cheeses may behave a bit differently, so keep an eye on them as they cook.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, easy one-pan basil halloumi chicken with tomatoes is naturally gluten-free, as long as no gluten-containing sides are served. Always check labels on your halloumi and any other packaged ingredients if you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities.

What other vegetables could I add?

This recipe welcomes creativity! Try adding sliced zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach with the tomatoes for extra color and nutrition. Just be sure not to overcrowd the pan so everything roasts instead of steams.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can sauté the chicken and prep your vegetables a day ahead, storing everything separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, just combine and finish the recipe as directed for maximum freshness and flavor.

Will this work with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer even more juiciness and a slightly richer flavor. Adjust cooking times as needed—thighs may require a few extra minutes in the oven to reach perfect doneness.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the easy one-pan basil halloumi chicken with tomatoes enough—it’s fuss-free, stunning, and bursting with Mediterranean sunshine in every bite. If you’re itching for a delicious shortcut to weeknight dinner bliss, give this recipe a whirl and watch it become a regular on your table!

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