Tired of takeout and looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy dinner recipe? Look no further! This canned tomato chicken recipe is a perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a simple, yet flavorful dish that's packed with protein and is ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is perfect for those exploring homemade cooking and seeking quick dinner ideas. It's also a great example of how to create delicious dishes using readily available ingredients. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz canned diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Optional: ½ cup chopped fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Flavor the Sauce
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Broth
Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh basil (if using) and serve hot over pasta, rice, or quinoa. This easy recipe is perfect for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Canned Tomato Chicken:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend a portion of the sauce with an immersion blender before adding the chicken back to the skillet.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this recipe, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Add them along with the onions.
- Don't overcook the chicken; it should be cooked through but still juicy.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Chicken: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Mediterranean Twist: Add Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This canned tomato chicken recipe is a simple, delicious, and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights. It's an excellent addition to your collection of easy recipes and best recipes, and it showcases how flavorful and satisfying healthy meals can be. Enjoy!