Today, I invite you to savor the taste of my treasured recipe: Chicken with Fresh Tomato Sauce. This dish is a celebration of simplicity and bold flavors, where juicy chicken is bathed in a vibrant sauce made from ripe, sun-kissed tomatoes. Join me as I guide you through the steps to create a dish that will evoke feelings of warmth, comfort, and pure culinary satisfaction.
Chicken with Fresh Tomato Sauce
Equipment
- oven
- 1 small skillet or saucepan
Ingredients
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
- 4 green onions (scallions), finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped or torn
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon minced green chilies (fresh or canned), optional
- ⅛ teaspoon cumin
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 boneless skinless breasts
Instructions
- Preheat the oven’s broiler and lightly coat a roasting tray or baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a small skillet or saucepan, combine the tomatoes, green onions, garlic, parsley, lime or lemon juice, cumin, olive oil, and chili (if using); place over medium low heat and allow to heat through while chicken is prepared and cooked (stirring occasionally).
- Lightly spray both sides of the chicken breasts with a little nonstick cooking spray and sprinkle them with the pepper.
- Broil the chicken 4 to 5 inches from the heat for 3-5 minutes (or until lightly browned); flip the chicken over and broil for another 3 -5 minutes more.
- Arrange the chicken on a serving platter, ladle the warm tomato sauce over top, and garnish (if desired) with additional parsley.
Video
Notes
Alternative Method: Sous Vide Chicken with Fresh Tomato Sauce
For those who have a sous vide machine, using this cooking technique will result in incredibly tender and perfectly cooked chicken for the Chicken with Fresh Tomato Sauce. Sous vide ensures precise temperature control, resulting in consistently juicy and flavorful chicken. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 tomatoes, diced
- 1 tablespoon tomato
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your sous vide water bath to 145°F (63°C) for a slightly pink and juicy result or 155°F (68°C) for fully cooked chicken.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place each chicken breast in a separate vacuum-sealed bag or a heavy-duty resealable bag, ensuring they are in a single layer.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to each bag, along with minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Seal the bags using a vacuum sealer or by utilizing the water displacement method.
- Once the water bath has reached the desired temperature, carefully lower the sealed bags into the water bath, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cook the chicken breasts for 1 to 2 hours, depending on your preferred doneness.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the fresh tomato sauce. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- After the sous vide cooking time has elapsed, remove the chicken breasts from the bags and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until nicely browned.
- Serve the sous vide chicken with the fresh tomato sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, if desired.
By utilizing the precision of sous vide cooking, you’ll achieve tender and moist chicken breasts that pair perfectly with the vibrant flavors of the fresh tomato sauce. Enjoy the succulent results of this alternative method.
Cooking Tips
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Welcome to the cooking tips section, where I’ll share valuable insights to help you create the most flavorful Chicken with Fresh Tomato Sauce. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll achieve outstanding results every time. Let’s dive in!
- Marinating Magic: Enhance the flavor and tenderness of your chicken by marinating it in a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This step allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more delicious and succulent dish.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: To ensure juicy and evenly cooked chicken breasts, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Overcooking can lead to dryness, so keep a close eye on the temperature.
- Simmer with Love: When making the fresh tomato sauce, allow it to simmer gently over low heat. This slow cooking process helps the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and aromatic sauce. Patience is key here!
- Balancing Flavors: Taste and adjust the seasoning of the tomato sauce before adding the chicken. If you find the sauce too acidic, a pinch of sugar can help balance the flavors. Don’t be afraid to experiment and add a touch of your favorite herbs or spices to personalize the dish.
- Rest and Savor: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender bite. Patience may be challenging, but the flavors are worth the wait!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve mastered the art of preparing Chicken with Fresh Tomato Sauce, let’s explore some exciting ways to serve and enjoy this delightful dish. From casual weeknight dinners to special occasions, here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.
- Weeknight Delight: This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner with your family. Serve the Chicken with Fresh Tomato Sauce over a bed of al dente spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a classic and comforting meal. Don’t forget a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves for a finishing touch.
- Elegant Entertaining: Impress your guests by presenting the Chicken with Fresh Tomato Sauce alongside creamy polenta or fluffy mashed potatoes. The creamy textures complement the bold flavors of the dish, creating a sophisticated and satisfying combination. Garnish with fresh herbs for a touch of elegance.
- Light and Fresh: For a lighter option, serve the Chicken with Fresh Tomato Sauce on a bed of vibrant mixed greens or baby spinach. The tangy tomato sauce pairs beautifully with the freshness of the greens, creating a refreshing and balanced salad. Drizzle with a balsamic vinaigrette for added zing.
- Sandwich Sensation: Transform the leftovers into a mouthwatering sandwich. Shred the chicken, layer it on crusty bread, and top it with a spoonful of the tomato sauce. Add some fresh mozzarella and a few basil leaves for a fantastic Italian-inspired sandwich experience.
- Brunch Bonanza: Serve the Chicken with Fresh Tomato Sauce as part of a hearty brunch. Top a slice of toasted crusty bread with the chicken, poached eggs, and a generous drizzle of the tomato sauce. Sprinkle with fresh herbs, such as chives or parsley, and enjoy a delightful and satisfying start to your day.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors of Chicken with Fresh Tomato Sauce develop even further when made in advance. Cook the dish as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for future enjoyment. Allow the dish to cool completely, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What are some side dishes that pair well with this chicken dish?
For a complete meal, consider serving the Chicken with Fresh Tomato Sauce alongside roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant. A side of fluffy couscous or crusty bread is also a great choice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Certainly! While the recipe calls for chicken breasts, boneless chicken thighs can be used as a flavorful alternative. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may require a few extra minutes to cook through.
Can I substitute canned tomatoes for fresh tomatoes?
Absolutely. If fresh tomatoes are not available, you can substitute them with canned diced tomatoes. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes without any additional flavors or seasonings. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as canned tomatoes are already cooked and may not require as much simmertime.
Elevate your culinary skills with alternative methods for making Chicken with Fresh Tomato Sauce. Explore the flavorsome possibilities of oven-baked, stovetop simmered, grilled, and sous vide preparations. Each approach offers a unique cooking experience, ensuring tender and juicy chicken accompanied by a fresh and tangy tomato sauce. Get ready to impress your taste buds and experiment with these delicious variations.