Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy dinner recipe that's also incredibly delicious? Look no further! This chicken breast red wine recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and impresses even the most discerning palates. It's a fantastic example of how simple homemade cooking can deliver amazing results, transforming humble chicken breasts into a restaurant-quality meal. This recipe is bursting with flavor, thanks to a rich red wine sauce that's surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This simple step is crucial for flavor development.
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step creates a beautiful crust and adds depth of flavor. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Build the Sauce:
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Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't burn the garlic!
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Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This helps to deepen the flavor of the sauce.
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Pour in the red wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This is where all the delicious flavor is hiding!
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Add the thyme and rosemary. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Combine and Finish:
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Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the chicken breasts in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Use a meat thermometer: This guarantees perfectly cooked chicken every time. Overcooked chicken is dry chicken!
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or herbs.
- Wine selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of dry red wine. A bolder wine will result in a more robust sauce.
Variations:
- Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for added depth of flavor and texture.
- Creamy sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This chicken breast red wine recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas. It’s a delicious dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Enjoy!