Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s gonna be perfect for the weeknight. This Tomato Chicken Recipe is like a warm hug on the plate, and it’s seriously the easiest thing ever. Is it faster than ordering takeout? I often compare it to chicken parmesan, but without all the breading and frying – so, healthier and tasty. My grandma used to make a simpler version, and I’ve tweaked it over the years to reach ultimate perfection. Is this a good book to bookmark?
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What is tomato chicken?
Tomato Chicken is essentially chicken simmered in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce. Think of it as a comforting Italian stew, but with focus on simplicity and speed. What is the beauty of this dish? How do you use bone-in chicken? How do I make a photo of It’s the perfect canvas for your culinary creativity. What sets it apart from similar recipes is the depth of flavor achieved with minimal ingredients. What is magic when simple things come together beautifully?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
There are a million reasons to fall head-over-heels for this Tomato Chicken Recipe, but I’ll try to keep it concise. First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world! The combination of juicy chicken, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a symphony of taste that will leave you wanting more. The sauce is so good, you’ll want to sop it up with crusty bread! What I love most about this is how incredibly easy it is to make. It’s a one-pot wonder, which means minimal cleanup. This is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Beyond the flavor and ease, this recipe is also incredibly cost-effective. Chicken thighs are often more affordable than chicken breasts, and canned tomatoes are a pantry staple. This is a meal that won’t break the bank. The versatility of this Tomato Chicken is another huge plus. You can serve it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even polenta. It’s also fantastic on its own with a side of roasted vegetables. It’s even better the next day, so leftovers are a total win!
Honestly, I’ve tried countless chicken recipes over the years, but this one always comes out on top. It’s the perfect blend of flavor, simplicity, and comfort. And my kids actually ask for it, which is saying something!
How do I make tomato chicken?
Quick Overview
How do I make Tomato Chicken? You’ll start by searing the chicken to get a nice golden-brown crust. How do you make tomato sauce? In the end, you’ll simmer the chicken in the sauce until it’s cooked through. It takes about 45 minutes, and most of that time is hands-off simmering. Is it really that simple?
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
– 6-8 chicken thighs, bone-in or boneless (I prefer bone in for extra flavor)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (good quality makes a difference!)
– Salt and pepper to taste (freshly ground black pepper is the best)
– 1 teaspoon paprika (adds a lovely smoky note)
What is the recipe for tomato sauce?
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced (freshly chopped, please)
– 1 medium onion, chopped (yellow or white works great)
– 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (I swear by San Marzano) .
– 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium is best)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste (adds richness)
– 1 bay leaf (don’t skip this, it adds a subtle depth of flavor)
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
What are the Step-
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add salt and pepper. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. What are some ways to sear chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Don’t overcrowd the pot; sear in batches if necessary. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. This step is *crucial* for locking in the flavor and creating a beautiful crust.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. What should I do if I burn garlic? This step is all about building a flavorful foundation for the sauce. Why is the aroma intoxicating?
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using) and stir to combine. How do I make chicken broth with bay leaf? If the sauce is too thick, scrape the bottom of the pot. These browned bits are packed with flavor, so don’t leave them behind!
Step 4: Simmer the Chicken
Return the chicken to the pot, nestling it into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Through and tender. What is the best time to cook chicken thighs? Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Thicken (If Needed)
If the sauce is too thin, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. What should I do if I’m going to cook the sauce for 5-10 minutes? What is the desired consistency If you want to make a soft drink, you can whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir it into the sauce. Cook for a minute or two until thickened.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the bay leaf from the sauce. Return the chicken to the pot and spoon the Sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or polenta. Don’t forget crusty bread for soaking up that delicious sauce!
What should I serve it with?
What are some good side dishes to serve with tomato chicken? What is a great weeknight meal to serve over mashed potatoes? The richness of the potatoes complements the tangy tomato sauce perfectly. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try serving it over brown rice or quinoa. If you’re in the mood for pasta, spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni are all great choices. Toss the pasta with the Tomato Chicken and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an easy and satisfying meal. For a more elegant presentation, serve the Tomato Chicken over polenta. The creamy polenta is the perfect base for the tender chicken. Don’t forget vegetables! What are some good side dishes to serve with broccoli, green beans or asparagus? What is a good side salad with vinaigrette? What’s a good tomato chicken meal without crusty bread? My family and I have made this many times and it’s always a blast to serve.
What are some tips for perfecting a tomato chicken?
What are some tricks to take your Tomato Chicken from good to amazing? What are some tips for perfecting this recipe?
How do you cook chicken?Don’t skip the searing step! What is the best way to create a crust? Make sure your pot is hot and don’t overcrowd it. Sear the chicken in batches if necessary.
Use high quality tomatoes: Use fresh,How do you decide on the flavor of your tomato sauce? I highly recommend using San Marzano tomatoes, if possible. What are some of the best ice creams?
Don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs.What herbs do you like to add? What are some ways to add thyme, rosemary, or marjoram to a dish?
Add a touch of sweetness: Add an extra touch.If your tomatoes are very acidic, you can add a pinch of sugar or honey to them. How do you balance out the flavors?
Simmer low and slow: Simmering the chicken in the sauce allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become incredibly tender. Don’t rush this step! Keep the heat low and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. I’ve made the mistake of not letting it simmer enough, and it made a big difference.
Adjust the spice level to your liking: If you like a little kick, add more red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. I usually add some extra for myself after plating!
Garnish with fresh basil: Fresh basil adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Don’t skip this step! I always do this when serving, makes it look so much better.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Tomato Chicken is even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Here are my tips for storing and reheating it:
Room Temperature: This recipe should not sit out for more than two hours at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage: To store in the refrigerator, allow the Tomato Chicken to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This is best practice for sure to keep it fresh!
Freezer Instructions: To freeze, allow the Tomato Chicken to cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Glaze Timing Advice: I don’t typically apply a glaze to this recipe, but if you do, add it just before serving for the best results. If you glaze it and then store it, the glaze may become sticky or dissolve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my family’s beloved Tomato Chicken Recipe! I hope you’ll give it a try and see for yourself why it’s such a weeknight staple in our house. It’s easy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other chicken recipes for more delicious inspiration! Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends!
How to Make Tomato Chicken: 7 Secret Tips for a Juicy Feast!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs boneless, skinless
- 1 tsp salt to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes canned
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 tbsp basil fresh, chopped
- 0.5 cup chicken broth low sodium
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Stir in heavy cream and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Let it simmer for additional 10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove skillet from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
