Welcome to my kitchen! Let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish—chicken tomato sauce! This savory chicken dish is cooked to perfection in a rich, aromatic tomato sauce that just makes your taste buds sing. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its flavors but also in its simplicity. Imagine succulent chicken breasts simmered until tender, enveloped in a luscious sauce bursting with the freshness of crushed tomatoes and fragrant herbs. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with warmth and comfort, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Trust me, once you try this chicken tomato sauce, it’s going to become a staple in your kitchen. You won’t be able to resist going back for seconds! So, let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients List
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano for their rich flavor
- 1 onion, diced finely for even cooking
- 3 cloves garlic, minced to release maximum aroma
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano, for that classic Italian touch
- 1 teaspoon dried basil, adding sweetness and depth
- Salt to taste, don’t be shy—seasoning is key!
- Pepper to taste, freshly cracked is best for flavor
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin for a fruity note
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish and vibrant color
How to Prepare Chicken Tomato Sauce
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this delightful chicken tomato sauce! I promise this process is straightforward, but there are a few key steps to ensure everything turns out just right. Ready? Let’s roll up our sleeves!
Preparing the Chicken
First things first—seasoning! Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts. This is crucial for infusing flavor right from the get-go. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. You want the oil hot enough to sizzle when the chicken hits the pan. Carefully lay the chicken in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd them; you want that beautiful golden-brown sear! Let them cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes on each side. If you try to flip them too early, they’ll stick, so resist the urge! Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. This step keeps the chicken juicy and tender, which is what we’re aiming for!
Making the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until it’s translucent—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. The leftover bits from the chicken will add fantastic flavor to your sauce, so don’t wash the skillet just yet! Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute. It’s essential not to let the garlic burn; you want that fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen. Now, stir in the crushed tomatoes along with the oregano and basil. This is where the magic happens! The tomatoes will bubble and blend with the herbs, creating a rich, savory sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Combining Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Return the beautifully browned chicken to the skillet and nestle it into that luscious tomato sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid, allowing the flavors to meld together while the chicken simmers for about 20 minutes. This slow cooking process ensures the chicken absorbs all those delicious flavors while staying moist. When you’re ready to serve, don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley—it adds a pop of color and freshness that really elevates the dish! Trust me, your plate will look as good as it tastes!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for this delicious chicken tomato sauce, based on a typical serving size of one chicken breast with sauce. Keep in mind that these values can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use and how much sauce you pour over your chicken. But this should give you a solid idea of what you’re putting on your plate!
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 40g
With a good balance of protein and flavor, this dish makes for a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down. Enjoy knowing you’re fueling your body with something wholesome and delicious!
Tips for Success
To really nail this chicken tomato sauce, here are a few pro tips that I swear by! First, don’t rush the browning process; a good sear takes time and adds so much flavor. If you want to amp up the taste, consider marinating your chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours beforehand. It’ll infuse the meat with even more deliciousness!
Also, taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking, and don’t hesitate to add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a kick. If your sauce feels too acidic, a tiny pinch of sugar can balance it out beautifully. And remember, a splash of red wine while the sauce simmers can elevate the flavors to a whole new level. Trust me, these little tweaks make a big difference!
Variations on Chicken Tomato Sauce
If you want to mix things up with your chicken tomato sauce, there are plenty of delicious variations you can try! One of my favorite tweaks is to add fresh vegetables; think bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Just toss them in with the onions for a colorful, nutritious boost.
Feeling adventurous? Switch up the herbs! Fresh basil or thyme can add a different layer of flavor, or even a bit of rosemary for a more aromatic touch. And if you’re a spice lover, don’t hesitate to crank up the heat with red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. You could also experiment with different types of tomatoes—roasted or fire-roasted tomatoes bring a smoky richness that’s to die for!
For a creamy twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese just before serving. It gives the sauce a luxurious texture that pairs beautifully with the chicken. You can even turn this dish into a one-pan wonder by serving it over a bed of cooked pasta or rice, allowing the sauce to soak into every bite. The possibilities are endless, so have fun and make this recipe your own!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this delicious chicken tomato sauce, the possibilities are truly endless! My go-to is to serve it over a generous helping of al dente pasta, like spaghetti or fettuccine, so the sauce can cling beautifully to each strand. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints!
If pasta isn’t your thing, fluffy white rice or creamy risotto makes for a fantastic base as well. The rice soaks up all those savory tomato flavors, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. You could even try serving it alongside a bed of polenta for a twist that adds a lovely creamy texture to the dish.
Don’t forget about the sides! A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect for cutting through the richness of the sauce. I also love roasted or steamed vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or asparagus, as they add a pop of color and extra nutrients to your plate.
If you’re feeling a bit fancy, a nice crusty garlic bread is a must-have for mopping up any leftover sauce. Trust me, you won’t want to waste a single drop! And for an added touch, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over your dish right before serving elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Enjoy your meal, and remember, it’s all about those little touches that make your dining experience special!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! Storing your chicken tomato sauce properly ensures you can enjoy those delightful flavors later. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation from forming, which can make things soggy. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it! Just portion out the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. It should stay good in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight for the best results.
Now, for reheating—there are a couple of options! If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works just fine. Transfer your desired portion to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in. Heat it on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s heated through.
For a tastier reheating method, I recommend warming it up on the stovetop. Just pour the chicken and sauce into a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s hot and bubbling. This method helps retain that lovely texture and flavor. If it seems a bit thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Enjoy your delicious leftovers just as much as the first time around!
Your Feedback
I’d love to hear from you! After trying out this chicken tomato sauce, please take a moment to leave a comment below. Did you make any tasty variations? How did it turn out for you? Your insights and experiences are so valuable, and they might inspire others to get cooking too!
If you enjoyed this recipe, consider rating it! Your feedback helps me share the best possible dishes with everyone. And remember, cooking is all about experimenting and making it your own—so don’t hesitate to share your creative twists! I can’t wait to read what you come up with!
Chicken Tomato Sauce: 5 Steps to Delicious Comfort Food
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A savory chicken dish cooked in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Brown chicken in the skillet for 5-7 minutes on each side.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil.
- Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Serve with pasta or rice.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: chicken tomato sauce, Italian chicken, savory chicken dish
