Chicken breast in tomato sauce

Chicken Breast in Tomato Sauce: A Succulent Delicacy

Welcome to our kitchen! Today, I present to you a refined and easy-to-make recipe that will transform an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. We are talking about chicken breast in tomato sauce, a succulent dish full of flavors, perfect for a family dinner or to impress your guests.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

The Story of the Recipe

This recipe for chicken breast in tomato sauce has deep roots in traditional cuisine, where slowly cooked chicken in rich sauces was a popular way to add flavor and moisture. The tomato sauce, with its natural sweetness and balanced acidity, pairs perfectly with the chicken, creating a comforting yet elegant dish.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious chicken breast in tomato sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

- 3 boneless chicken breasts, washed and cut in half
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs
- 2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes
- 100-200 g of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 100 g of pitted Kalamata olives, sliced

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken Breast

1. In a large bowl, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme sprigs. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Add the chicken breasts and ensure they are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for about 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving juicy and flavorful meat.

Step 2: Preparing the Tomato Sauce

1. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius.
2. In an oven-safe dish, add the canned tomatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients well to create a uniform sauce.
3. Place the dish in the oven for 10 minutes to allow the sauce to cook slightly and develop flavors.

Step 3: Cooking the Chicken Breast

1. In a grill or non-stick pan, heat a little olive oil over high heat (you can use the leftover oil from the marinade).
2. Add the chicken breast slices one at a time, and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side. It is important not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
3. Once the chicken is browned on both sides, transfer it to the dish with the tomato sauce. Cover the chicken with a little sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Final Baking

1. Place the dish with the chicken and tomato sauce in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius, on turbo mode, for an additional 10-15 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to blend perfectly, and the chicken will become incredibly juicy.
2. After the baking time is up, carefully remove the dish from the oven, being cautious not to burn yourself.

Serving the Dish

To achieve a complete and balanced meal, I recommend serving the chicken with boiled white rice or simple pasta. These sides will absorb the delicious sauce and perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

Helpful Tip

If you want to add a touch of freshness, sprinkle some fresh basil or chopped parsley on top before serving. This will give a vibrant look and enhance the flavors.

Nutritional Information

- Calories per serving: approximately 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g

This dish is not only delicious but also healthy, being rich in protein and vitamins from tomatoes, which are an excellent source of antioxidants.

Possible Variations

If you want to experiment with this recipe, here are a few suggestions:

- Add vegetables: You can add diced zucchini or eggplant to the tomato sauce for extra nutrients.
- Use other types of meat: This recipe works wonderfully with chicken thighs or turkey.
- Spicy sauce: If you are a fan of spicy food, add some chopped chili pepper to the tomato sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes are an excellent alternative. Make sure to blanch and peel them for a smoother texture.

2. How can I store leftovers?
You can store the chicken in tomato sauce in the refrigerator in airtight containers for up to 3 days. It is also delicious when reheated!

3. What wine pairs well with this dish?
I recommend a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, which will perfectly complement the dish's flavors.

Conclusion

This recipe for chicken breast in tomato sauce is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying. With a little patience and love, you will create a dish that will be appreciated by all your loved ones. Don't forget to experiment and customize the recipe to your preferences! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: For 6 people: 3 chicken breasts divided into two fresh thyme sprigs, 2-3 cloves of garlic, olive oil, pitted Kalamata olives, 2 cans of whole peeled tomatoes, 100-200 g of cherry tomatoes.