Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's quick and easy to make? Then look no further! This chicken and diced tomatoes recipe is your new weeknight go-to. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and is ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe is a winner for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a simple, satisfying dish.
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 can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. This step ensures the chicken is cooked through and develops a nice sear. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
Step 3: Simmer the Chicken and Tomatoes
Pour in the undrained canned diced tomatoes. Stir in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This dish is fantastic on its own, or you can serve it with your favorite side dishes like rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the mixture uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, to the skillet along with the onions.
- For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Tomatoes: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the skillet along with the tomatoes.
- Spicy Chicken and Tomatoes: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Creamy Chicken and Tomatoes: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This simple chicken and diced tomatoes recipe is a perfect example of delicious, healthy food that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights and a great addition to your collection of homemade cooking recipes. Enjoy!