Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and effortless dinner? Look no further! This recipe for chicken with canned tomatoes is your answer. It's a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal prep time and delivers maximum taste. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this easy recipe!
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 canned crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz canned diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. This step helps to develop a richer flavor in your dish.
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Simmer the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Add broth and finish: Stir in the chicken broth. This adds depth and helps create a more luscious sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serve and enjoy: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes, such as pasta, rice, or crusty bread. This healthy meal is perfect for a quick dinner.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will prevent the chicken from browning properly and could lead to steaming instead of searing. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes: The quality of your canned tomatoes will significantly impact the flavor of your dish. Look for brands with minimal added ingredients.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to suit your preferences. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance your meal by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms along with the onions.
- Spice it up: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Creamy twist: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce. This is a great option if you're looking for a more decadent meal.
- Lemon zest: A teaspoon of lemon zest at the end brightens the flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This delicious chicken and tomato recipe is a testament to how simple, quick, and healthy dinners can be. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious and satisfying dinner on the table fast. Enjoy!