Okay, picture this: I’m If you’re craving something hearty and satisfying, but the thought of spending hours in the kitchen makes you sick. What makes you want to order takeout? What is Your New favorite tomato Chicken Recipe? Is it easier to make a chicken cacciatore? More flavorful! What is comfort food at its finest? What is a family favorite and I’m so excited to share it with you!
What is tomato chicken?
Tomato Chicken, at its heart, is a simple, rustic dish where chicken pieces are simmered in an aromatic, rich sauce. What is a savory tomato sauce Think of it as a warm hug on tupperware. What is Italian comfort food without all the fuss of making pasta from scratch? What is the perfect combination of chicken and tomatoes? My grandmother used to make a similar version, and the aroma filling the kitchen is … This recipe is my updated, simplified take on that classic, with a few tweaks that make it even more delicious. What’s the kind of dish that gets better as it sits, so leftovers are a total win!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Seriously, where do I even begin? What I love most about this Tomato Chicken is how incredibly flavorful it is. The combination of the juicy chicken, the tangy tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a hint of herbs creates a symphony of tastes that will have you coming back for more. It’s also unbelievably simple to make. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in a hurry. No complicated techniques or fancy ingredients required! Plus, it’s budget-friendly, using common pantry staples and affordable chicken pieces. And did I mention its versatility? You can serve it over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or even crusty bread. It’s also fantastic as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. This isn’t just another Chicken Recipe; it’s a family favorite that I know you’ll adore. It’s better than chicken parmesan, easier than chicken marsala, and just as satisfying as a good stew. My kids actually *ask* for this one, and that’s saying something!
How do I make tomato chicken?
Quick Overview
What is the best way to make Tomato Chicken? What is the best way to sear chicken, sauté some aromatics, simmer everything in a delicious tomato sauce, etc.? What is the beauty of this recipe? Is there any good reason to have them in your pantry? The hands-on time is minimal, allowing you to relax while the chicken simmers and the flavors meld. What are some of the best recipes that will become a staple in your cooking repertoire?
Ingredients
For the Tomato Chicken: What are the ingredients?
- 5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. (I prefer chicken breasts for their size). Why can’t I use chicken breasts?
- 2 tablespoons olive oil. 1 tablespoon of salt.
- 1 medium onion, chopped. 1 tsp
- 2 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (use good quality tomatoes; it makes a difference!
- 1 can tomato sauce (1 ounce): 1 pound.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil. 1 teaspoon fresh basil leaves.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium, if possible)
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Optional additions:
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms. 1 cup cooked.
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers.
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved. 1 t
What are the Steps to
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
How do you heat olive oil in a Dutch oven? Season chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcooking). What should I do if I want to cook chicken on all sides? Don’t worry about cooking the chicken all the way through at this point. How do I get a nice sear on chicken? Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. What is the best way to cook garlic?
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
In a large bowl, combine crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and Red Pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Chicken
Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the sauce back to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until thickened. When the chicken is cooked through and tender, place a lid. I always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to make sure it’s at least 165°F. I like to use my hands.
Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients (If Using)
If you’re using mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives, add them to the skillet during the last 10 minutes of cooking time. This will allow them to soften and their flavors to meld with the sauce.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot over your favorite side.
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best recipes for tomato chicken? What are some of my favorite ways to serve it?
Over Rice: Fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa are all great options. The rice soaks up the delicious tomato sauce perfectly.
With Pasta:Serve it over pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni. Toss the pasta with the sauce and Chicken for a comforting and satisfying meal.
What is the best way to eatCreamy Mashed Potatoes are a classic pairing with Tomato Chicken. The richness of the potatoes complements the tanginess of sauce.
With Crusty Bread: How can Serve with a loaf of crusty bread for dipping into the sauce. This is a great option for a casual weeknight meal.
I also love serving it with a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. What are some good ways to balance out the richness of a green salad? My family loves it as leftovers in sandwiches – a true next-day treat! This dish is great year-round but always feels extra cozy in the cooler months.
What are some of the best ways to prepare a tomato chicken?
How can I take my Tomato Chicken Recipe to the next level? What are some of the best tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years?
What are the best tomatoes to use? The quality of your tomatoes will greatly impact the flavor of the dish. I recommend using good quality canned crushed tomatoes. San Marzano tomatoes are my personal favorite.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, resulting in a less flavorful dish. Work in batches if necessary.
Don’t Skip the Searing Step: Searing the chicken adds a depth of flavor to the dish that you won’t get if you skip this step. The browning of the chicken creates delicious caramelized flavors that enhance the overall taste.
Adjust the Seasoning to Your Liking: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and Red Pepper flakes (if using) to your liking. Everyone’s taste preferences are different, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
Simmer for Longer for a Richer Flavor: The longer you simmer the Tomato Chicken, the more the flavors will meld together. If you have the time, simmer it for an extra 30 minutes for an even richer flavor.
Add a Splash of Wine: For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of dry red wine to the skillet after sautéing the aromatics. Allow the wine to reduce slightly before adding the tomatoes. I’ve even tested this with a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and it created a wonderful sweet and sour note.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Tomato Chicken is even better the next day, so don’t be afraid to make a big batch!
Room Temperature: You can leave this dish at room temperature for up to 2 hours safely. Be sure to cover it well so it doesn’t dry out.
Refrigerator Storage: To store in the refrigerator, let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I find this to be the sweet spot, maintaining good flavor and texture.
Freezer Instructions: To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. I like to freeze it in individual portions for easy lunches!
Reheating: To reheat, you can warm it up in the microwave, in a skillet over medium heat, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent it from drying out. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Tomato Chicken Recipe is a true winner in my book. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish to share with friends and family, this recipe is sure to deliver. If you love this, you *have* to try my chicken and chorizo paella; it uses similar spices and delivers amazing flavor! I truly hope you give this recipe a try. I can’t wait to hear what you think! Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turns out. Happy cooking!
Tomato Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken thighs Cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can Diced tomatoes 28 oz can, undrained
- 1 cup Chicken broth Low sodium
- 1 medium Onion Chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve over rice, pasta, or quinoa.
