Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This chicken red sauce recipe is a perfect example of delicious homemade cooking that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. It's one of those easy recipes that's both satisfying and healthy, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Get ready to experience a burst of Italian flavors with tender chicken simmered in a rich, vibrant tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas without compromising on taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Cooked pasta or rice, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet 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: Build the Flavor Base: 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: Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Cook Through: 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.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the chicken red sauce over your favorite cooked pasta or rice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For even more flavor, use fresh herbs instead of dried.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend it with an immersion blender before adding the chicken.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when browning the chicken. Work in batches if necessary to ensure it browns properly and doesn't steam.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the sauce, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Creamy Chicken Red Sauce: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or crème fraîche during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy Chicken Red Sauce: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Chicken Red Sauce with Sausage: Add 1 lb of Italian sausage to the skillet along with the chicken for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This chicken red sauce recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. It's a delicious and healthy option that showcases the best of homemade cooking, offering a balanced and flavorful experience. Enjoy!