Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken breast with a rich tomato sauce, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
This Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce recipe is a family favorite that brings together the juicy flavors of chicken and the zesty freshness of tomatoes. It's quick, simple, and perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy chicken breast cooked to perfection
- Rich and flavorful tomato sauce
- Quick and easy, ready in just 30 minutes
A Perfect Weeknight Meal
When you're pressed for time but still want to serve a delicious home-cooked meal, this Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce is the perfect solution. Ready in just 30 minutes, it transforms simple ingredients into a delightful dish that everyone will enjoy. The juicy chicken paired with the bright, tangy tomato sauce makes for a satisfying dinner that doesn't skimp on flavor.
Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it also offers a wonderful balance of protein and nutrients. The chicken breasts provide lean protein, while the tomato sauce is rich in vitamins and antioxidants. It’s a great way to nourish your family without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the tomato sauce by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for added texture and nutrition. If you prefer a heartier sauce, consider mixing in some red wine or a splash of balsamic vinegar to elevate the flavors.
This dish also pairs beautifully with various sides. Serve it over pasta, rice, or even a bed of sautéed greens for a complete meal. The options are endless, allowing you to tailor the dish to suit your family's preferences.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, they store exceptionally well! Simply place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. The flavors will meld even further, making the dish taste even better the next day.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and sauce together. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed. This makes it a great option for meal prepping.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Tomato Sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
Make the Tomato Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the chicken, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Serve with pasta or a side salad for a complete meal!
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. It's low in fat and high in essential nutrients like B vitamins and selenium. Coupled with the antioxidants found in tomatoes, this dish not only supports muscle health but also boosts your immune system.
Moreover, the herbs used in the sauce, such as oregano and basil, provide additional health benefits. They are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion, making this dish not just tasty but also nurturing for your body.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider serving this Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. A side of garlic bread can also complement the meal beautifully, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. For a touch of elegance, finish off the plate with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
If you're hosting a dinner party, this dish can be a star attraction. Pair it with a light red wine, like a Pinot Noir, to enhance the flavors of the dish. The combination will surely impress your guests and make for a memorable evening.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken separately and combine them when ready to serve.
Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce
A delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken breast with a rich tomato sauce, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Created by: Skylar Jennings
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Tomato Sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the chicken, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 40g