Chicken with tomatoes

Delicious chicken with tomatoes recipe: a culinary delight made from simple ingredients

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a dish that combines the fresh flavors of vegetables with the juiciness of meat? Chicken with tomatoes is an easy-to-make recipe, perfect for warm summer days or for a comforting family dinner. With simple ingredients, this recipe will take you on a flavorful gastronomic journey. Plus, it’s a great way to make the most of fresh tomatoes from the garden or the market.

A brief history of the recipe

Chicken with tomatoes is a classic recipe, appreciated in many culinary cultures. It combines the tradition of cooking meat with oil and spices to create a savory dish, often served with various sides. It is a perfect example of comfort food, reminiscent of Sunday family meals, where each ingredient comes from the grandparents' vegetable gardens.

Ingredients

To prepare this chicken with tomatoes recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 chicken (approximately 1.5 kg), cut into pieces
- 2 kg fresh tomatoes
- 1 small head of garlic
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar

Step by step: Preparing chicken with tomatoes

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. Make sure it is clean and cut it into pieces (thighs, breast, or wings, according to your preference). Peel the tomatoes (you can do this by blanching) and blend them until you get a smooth puree. The garlic will be peeled and crushed, and the spices will be prepared to add flavor to the dish.

2. Frying the chicken
In a large skillet, heat the 4 tablespoons of olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the chicken and fry it on all sides until golden (about 5-7 minutes on each side). This step is essential as it helps develop flavors and gives the chicken a delicious crust. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Cooking the tomato sauce
In the same skillet, add the tomato puree over the remaining oil. Season with salt, pepper, the bay leaf, and the teaspoon of sugar. The sugar will balance the acidity of the tomatoes, bringing a balanced taste. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, stirring constantly to avoid sticking.

4. The final combination
Add the fried chicken to the tomato sauce. Cover the skillet and let the dish simmer in the oven at 180°C for 20 minutes. After this period, add the crushed garlic and the sprig of rosemary. These ingredients will provide an irresistible aroma. Let it bake for another 10 minutes to intensify the flavors.

5. Serving
Chicken with tomatoes is delicious served alongside creamy mashed potatoes or aromatic rice. You can add a fresh green salad to balance the dish. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of color and flavor.

Useful tips

- Variations of the recipe: If you want to simplify the recipe, you can use just a chicken breast or a few thighs. Adjust the amount of tomatoes based on servings. Also, the chicken can be cooked without frying, directly in the sauce, saving time and calories.

- Choose quality tomatoes: Opt for ripe, meaty tomatoes as they will provide the best flavor for the sauce. You can also use canned tomatoes, but make sure they are of high quality.

- Preserve the flavors: If you like a spicier taste, you can add chili peppers or chili flakes. Additionally, adding some black olives to the sauce will bring a Mediterranean note.

Nutritional information

This chicken with tomatoes recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. Chicken is an excellent source of quality protein, while tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants. A serving of chicken with tomatoes contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the chicken portions and the oil used.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
Yes, you can make the chicken with tomatoes a day ahead. You can keep it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.

- What side dishes go best?
Mashed potatoes are a classic choice, but rice or a fresh green salad are also excellent options.

- How can I adapt the recipe for vegetarianism?
You can replace the chicken with tofu or mushrooms, cooking the same ingredients for a savory sauce.

In conclusion, the chicken with tomatoes recipe is a perfect choice for both everyday cooking and special occasions. Simple, quick, and full of flavors, it is a recipe that will bring smiles to the table. So let’s enjoy the flavor of fresh tomatoes and indulge in a delicious dish!