Easy Tomato Chicken Recipe for a Flavorful Meal

I can’t wait to share my go-to recipe for Easy Tomato Chicken! This dish is like a cozy hug on a plate, packed with flavors that remind me of warm family dinners. I still remember the first time I made it for my friends during a weekend gathering; the kitchen was filled with the irresistible aroma of tomatoes and spices, and everyone raved about it!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is while still feeling special. You can whip it up for a weeknight dinner or impress your guests on a special occasion. Plus, the juicy chicken paired with the tangy tomato sauce creates a delightful harmony that’s hard to resist. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!

What’s in Easy Tomato Chicken?

Chicken Thighs: I prefer using chicken thighs for this recipe because they’re juicy and flavorful. If you’re in a pinch, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work just fine too.

Crushed Tomatoes: The cornerstone of our dish! I always opt for San Marzano tomatoes for their rich flavor. You can also use canned crushed tomatoes, which makes this dish super easy.

Garlic: Fresh garlic adds that aromatic punch that everyone loves. Don’t skimp on it – the more, the merrier!

Onion: A good onion sautéed until it’s sweet and caramelized provides a wonderful base for our sauce.

Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my choice here, not only for cooking but also for drizzling before serving. It adds a beautiful flavor.

Italian Seasoning: This magical blend of herbs brings a classic touch to the dish. You can use a store-bought mix or make your own with oregano, basil, and thyme.

Salt and Pepper: Essentials for enhancing flavor! Always season to your taste.

Is Easy Tomato Chicken Good for You?

Absolutely! Easy Tomato Chicken not only satisfies hunger but also brings a variety of health benefits to the table. It features a good source of protein thanks to the chicken, which is essential for muscle maintenance.

The star ingredient, **crushed tomatoes**, is rich in vitamins C and K and packed with antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is great for heart health. By opting for lean cuts of chicken and using olive oil, you’re also making healthier fat choices. Just be mindful of portions if you’re watching calorie intake since it can add up quickly with additional servings of rice or pasta on the side.

Ingredients List

– 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor)
– 28 oz crushed tomatoes
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste

This recipe serves about 4 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week!

How to Make Easy Tomato Chicken?

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
2. Toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, around 1 minute.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place them skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
4. Flip the chicken thighs over so they are skin-side up. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, making sure to coat the chicken nicely.
5. Lower the heat, cover, and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. Serve hot, spooning some of that fabulous tomato sauce over the chicken. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of pasta.

Serving Suggestions and Extras

Feel free to get creative with this dish! You can add in some chopped fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese right before serving for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some spinach or bell peppers when the onions are cooking for added nutrition and color.

This Easy Tomato Chicken is easily adaptable to fit your taste buds and what you have on hand. I’ve even made it with a splash of red wine added to the sauce for a deeper flavor. Yum!

Nothing makes me happier than knowing you’re stepping into the kitchen and giving this recipe a try. I hope it turns out just as delicious as mine did! Enjoy every savory bite, and feel free to share your experiences or any variations you tried. Cooking is all about having fun and making it your own!