If you’re craving a dish that brings together rich, comforting flavors with a touch of elegance, you’ve got to try Chicken with Tomato Sauce: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe. This dish is a true celebration of simplicity and depth, where tender chicken breasts soak up a vibrant, garlicky tomato sauce that bursts with herby goodness. It’s one of those meals that feels homemade yet impressive enough to serve any day of the week. The combination of fresh basil, aromatic garlic, and perfectly balanced seasonings transforms everyday ingredients into pure magic that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of ingredients that are easy to find but pack incredible flavor is the key to this recipe. Each component plays a vital role—whether it’s adding a savory base, a hint of sweetness, or that fresh herbal touch that elevates the sauce from simple to sensational.
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless and skinless for quicker cooking and tender, juicy meat every time.
- Canned crushed tomatoes: This forms the luscious, flavorful foundation of the sauce with a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Onion: Diced finely, it adds subtle sweetness and body to the sauce as it cooks down.
- Garlic: Minced cloves bring a punch of aroma and depth that is absolutely essential.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it imparts richness and helps meld all the flavors beautifully.
- Dried basil: A sprinkle introduces fragrant herbal notes that make the sauce sing.
- Dried oregano: Adds an earthy, slightly peppery layer to the mix.
- Sugar: Just a teaspoon to balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes and round out the flavors.
- Salt and pepper: To taste—never underestimate their power in seasoning every bite perfectly.
- Fresh basil leaves: For garnish, they bring brightness and a pop of color right before serving.
- Optional Parmesan cheese: Grated on top, it adds a salty, savory finish that makes the dish truly decadent.
How to Make Chicken with Tomato Sauce: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step is key to flavor that penetrates deeply, not just sitting on the surface. Let them rest for a few minutes while you prep the sauce ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook until it’s translucent and soft, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant but not browned—this will infuse the oil and create a flavorful base for your tomato sauce.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Push the onion and garlic mixture to one side of the skillet, then add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden crust. This step locks in the juices and ensures that chicken stays tender as it simmers in the sauce.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Herbs
Pour the canned crushed tomatoes over the chicken, spreading it evenly across the skillet. Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, sugar, and season again with salt and pepper to your liking. Stir gently to combine the herbs into the tomato sauce, coating the chicken beautifully. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Simmer Until Perfect
Cover the skillet and let everything simmer together for about 20 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through thoroughly while soaking in all the lovely flavors. The sauce will thicken slightly, becoming rich and comforting with every stir. Feel free to taste and adjust seasoning towards the end.
How to Serve Chicken with Tomato Sauce: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your dish with fresh basil leaves adds a fresh, peppery pop and a delightful green contrast to the red tomato sauce. If you’re a fan of cheese, a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top will lend that irresistible salty richness that melts into every bite.
Side Dishes
This Chicken with Tomato Sauce: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe pairs beautifully with fluffy mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or even a simple buttered pasta. A crisp green salad or steamed veggies can add balance by introducing a fresh textural contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner, serve this dish family-style in the skillet it was cooked in for an inviting rustic look. Alternatively, presentation over a bed of herb-infused couscous or spread across toasted garlic bread creates a feast for both the eyes and palate. Adding a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving elevates the dish even more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen by settling overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Transfer cooled portions of the chicken and tomato sauce to freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a tiny splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too thick. Avoid microwaving at high heat to keep the chicken moist and tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust your cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply skip the Parmesan cheese garnish, and you’ll still enjoy the delicious, hearty flavors of the tomato sauce and chicken without any dairy.
How can I make the tomato sauce spicier?
Feel free to add red pepper flakes when you add the garlic and onions, or a splash of hot sauce in the tomato sauce for a nice kick tailored to your taste buds.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a party?
Definitely. This recipe reheats well and even tastes better after resting. Prepare it a day ahead, refrigerate it, and reheat gently before serving your guests.
What’s the best way to thicken the sauce if it’s too watery?
Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, stirring in a small spoonful of tomato paste can help to thicken and intensify the flavor.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try Chicken with Tomato Sauce: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe, it will quickly become one of your kitchen favorites. The beautiful blend of tender chicken with a savory, herby tomato sauce is a comforting hug on a plate and perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to make it your own with your favorite herbs and sides. Happy cooking!
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Chicken with Tomato Sauce: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Chicken with Tomato Sauce recipe offers a delicious, easy-to-make meal featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a flavorful homemade tomato sauce infused with garlic, onion, and aromatic herbs. Garnished with fresh basil and optional Parmesan cheese, it’s a perfect dish for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Tomato Sauce
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Push the onion and garlic to the side of the skillet and add the chicken breasts. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and nearly cooked through.
- Add tomato sauce and seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, and sugar. Mix everything together to combine. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes until fully cooked and flavors meld.
- Final taste and garnish: Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- For juicier chicken, marinade the breasts in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to reduce liquid.
- This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
- Use fresh herbs if available for a brighter flavor.
- To keep this recipe gluten-free, ensure canned tomatoes and seasonings are gluten-free certified.
