Easy Chicken in Tomato Sauce is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. This recipe is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, as it combines simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods to create a meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. With its bright, tangy sauce and succulent chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with Easy Chicken in Tomato Sauce for its incredible flavor and effortless preparation. The chicken is juicy and tender, perfectly complemented by a vibrant tomato sauce that’s infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice. This dish fits seamlessly into various dietary lifestyles, being naturally gluten-free and adaptable for those watching their carbohydrate intake. Moreover, it’s quick to prepare—ideal for busy weeknights—while still offering that homemade warmth that everyone craves.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and herbs, as they can elevate the flavor of your sauce significantly.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: Letting the chicken marinate in olive oil, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes can enhance its juiciness and flavor.
- Simmer Gently: Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for the right amount of time to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.
- Make Extra Sauce: Batch up the tomato sauce and freeze it in small portions for easy future meals.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep several components of this dish in advance. Marinate the chicken up to a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. The tomato sauce can also be made in advance; it stays fresh in the fridge for up to three days or can be frozen for up to three months. Just remember to reheat it gently before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for varied flavor profiles.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and texture.
- Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Different Protein: Substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
How to Serve
Serve Easy Chicken in Tomato Sauce over a bed of fluffy rice, pasta, or polenta to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can also add a delightful finishing touch.
Pairing Suggestions
For drinks, a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the tomato sauce. If you prefer cocktails, a classic Italian spritz will complement the meal nicely. For sides, a simple green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette or garlic bread works perfectly. For dessert, consider serving a light panna cotta or a scoop of gelato to finish the meal on a sweet note.
How to Store
Leftover Easy Chicken in Tomato Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- Skillet or Dutch Oven: A large skillet or Dutch oven is ideal for this recipe. If you don’t have one, any large, heavy-bottomed pot will work.
- Meat Thermometer: This is essential for checking the doneness of the chicken.
- Chopping Board and Knives: For prepping your ingredients.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan or vegetarian, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a dairy-free option, simply skip any cheese garnishes and ensure your broth is dairy-free. For nut-free cooking, this recipe is already nut-free but always check ingredient labels for cross-contamination.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, use fresh garden tomatoes instead of canned for a burst of flavor. In the winter, consider adding hearty vegetables like carrots or potatoes to the sauce for a more filling dish. Fresh basil can be swapped for dried herbs during the colder months when fresh isn’t available.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless thighs work well and can add more flavor and tenderness.
- What if I don’t have canned tomatoes? You can use fresh tomatoes; just blanch and chop them, using about 2 cups for the recipe.
- How long will this dish take to cook? The total cooking time is around 30-40 minutes, including prep and simmering.
- Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Just ensure you have a sufficiently large skillet or pot to accommodate the extra chicken.
Easy Chicken in Tomato Sauce
Easy Chicken in Tomato Sauce is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Optionally, marinate them in olive oil for 30 minutes.
- Cook the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Chicken: Nestle the seasoned chicken breasts into the sauce. Cover and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the chicken with the sauce spooned over the top, garnished with fresh herbs.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 318Total Fat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 103mgSodium: 1076mgCarbohydrates: 13gFiber: 3gSugar: 7gProtein: 40g
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
Easy Chicken in Tomato Sauce is a delightful and versatile recipe that brings comfort and flavor to your table with minimal effort. With the right tips and a little creativity, you can make this dish your own, transforming simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delicious dish with your loved ones!
