Are you craving a vibrant, healthy, and incredibly delicious meal? Look no further! This recipe for Chicken and Fresh Tomatoes is your answer. It’s a quick dinner idea, perfect for a busy weeknight, yet sophisticated enough to impress guests. This homemade cooking masterpiece combines the savory goodness of chicken with the juicy sweetness of fresh tomatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: 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.
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Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped bell pepper, chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
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Combine and Cook: Return the chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.
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.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken. Work in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken browns properly.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the dish uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Tomatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Chicken and Tomatoes: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Tomatoes: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Chicken and Fresh Tomato recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on taste and nutrition. It's a healthy meal option perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend lunch. Enjoy this delicious dish, and don't hesitate to experiment with different variations to create your own unique culinary masterpiece! This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs, making it one of the best recipes for versatile weeknight cooking. Remember to share your culinary creations with us!