Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and easy meal that won't keep you in the kitchen all night? Then look no further! This chicken breast and diced tomatoes recipe is your new go-to for quick weeknight dinners. It’s packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and is ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want a simple, satisfying meal. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a delicious dish without any fuss.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This simple step significantly enhances the flavor.
Sauté the aromatics:
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make the dish bitter.
Cook the chicken:
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For even cooking, ensure your chicken breasts are roughly the same size.
Simmer the sauce:
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Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
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Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded.
Serve and enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy! This dish pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, or a simple side salad for a complete and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have more than two chicken breasts, cook them in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to guarantee your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance the dish with other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Add them along with the tomatoes.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
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 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This simple chicken breast and diced tomatoes recipe is a great example of how easy and delicious healthy meals can be. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, offering a flavorful and satisfying experience without sacrificing nutrition or your precious time. Enjoy!