Tomato Braised Chicken Thighs is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce. The combination of juicy chicken and tangy tomatoes creates a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and wholesome. Ideal for family dinners or a cozy night in, this recipe is not only mouthwatering but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to favorite in any home cook’s repertoire.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser packed with flavor and simplicity. The chicken thighs become meltingly tender as they braise in a luscious tomato sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of red wine. It’s the perfect blend of savory and slightly sweet, satisfying cravings while being suitable for various dietary lifestyles. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, you’ll find joy in creating this delightful dish.
Tips and Tricks
- Searing for Flavor: Don’t skip the step of searing the chicken thighs. This caramelizes the skin and adds depth to the flavor of the dish.
- Herbs Matter: Fresh herbs elevate the dish, so consider using fresh basil, thyme, or oregano if available. If using dried herbs, reduce the amount as they are more concentrated.
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, add in diced carrots, bell peppers, or onions at the start of the cooking process to enrich the sauce.
- Wine Selection: A good-quality red wine enhances the sauce. Choose something you enjoy drinking for the best results.
Make Ahead Tips
To save time, you can marinate the chicken thighs in the tomato sauce overnight for deeper flavor. Alternatively, you can prepare the sauce up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat the sauce before adding the chicken to finish cooking. The dish can also be frozen for up to three months; just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to airtight containers.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy version.
- Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate olives and capers into the sauce for a Mediterranean twist.
- Slow Cooker Option: Use a slow cooker for this recipe; simply follow the same steps and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
How to Serve
Serve the Tomato Braised Chicken Thighs directly from the pot for a rustic feel. Pair it with creamy polenta, crusty bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. The dish can also be elegantly plated with a drizzle of the sauce over the chicken.
Pairing Suggestions
A glass of Chianti or a light-bodied red wine complements the tomato sauce beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling water with a splash of lemon. Side dishes like garlic bread or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can enhance the mealtime experience. For dessert, a light panna cotta or berry tart would be a delightful finish.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- A large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven is ideal for braising.
- A wooden spoon for stirring.
- A meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the proper temperature.
- If using the slow cooker method, a slow cooker will be necessary.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure your broth and any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free. For a low-carb option, serve the chicken with zucchini noodles instead of pasta. To make it dairy-free, simply omit any cheese garnishes.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, opt for fresh, ripe tomatoes instead of canned ones for a vibrant flavor. In the colder months, canned tomatoes work perfectly. Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini in summer or root vegetables in winter to the braise.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, but they may dry out more easily, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
- What can I substitute for red wine? You can use chicken broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a non-alcoholic option.
- How long does this dish take to cook? The total cook time is about 45 minutes, including prep and simmering.
Tomato Braised Chicken Thighs
Tomato Braised Chicken Thighs is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add onions and sauté until translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the red wine (if using) and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
- Allow the wine to reduce for about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the chicken thighs to the pan, skin-side up, and cover. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 201Total Fat: 11gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 42mgSodium: 136mgCarbohydrates: 7gFiber: 1gSugar: 2gProtein: 9g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Tomato Braised Chicken Thighs is a dish that warms both the heart and the stomach. With its enticing aroma and robust flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering, this recipe is a testament to the joy of cooking and sharing delicious food. Happy cooking!
