This isn't just any chicken tomato sauce recipe; it's a journey into flavor country. We'll craft a rich, vibrant sauce perfect for pasta, pizza, or even as a dip for crusty bread. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow, yet incredibly delicious recipe.
What Makes This Chicken Tomato Sauce Recipe Stand Out?
Many chicken tomato sauce recipes fall flat, lacking depth and complexity. This recipe avoids that pitfall by incorporating several key elements:
- Slow-cooked chicken: Tender, juicy chicken forms the heart of this sauce, imparting its savory essence.
- Fresh herbs: Basil, oregano, and thyme elevate the flavor profile, adding an aromatic complexity that store-bought sauces simply can't match.
- Balanced seasonings: A careful blend of salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder ensures a perfectly seasoned sauce that's neither bland nor overpowering.
- High-quality ingredients: Using the best tomatoes you can find (fresh, canned San Marzano, or a combination) makes a world of difference.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes (San Marzano preferred)
- 15 oz canned tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. This step helps develop a deeper flavor. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, thyme, onion powder, and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Add Chicken and Cook: Return the chicken to the pot. Cover and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
- Season and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt as needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What kind of pasta is best with this sauce?
This versatile sauce pairs beautifully with many pasta shapes. Penne, rigatoni, fettuccine, and spaghetti are all excellent choices. Consider the sauce's thickness when selecting your pasta; thicker sauces work well with wider pasta shapes.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This sauce tastes even better the next day. Make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken will require a longer simmering time to become fully cooked and tender.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms, to enhance the sauce's flavor and nutritional value. Add them along with the onions for optimal cooking.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes! Use about 3 times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried herbs. Add the fresh herbs during the last 15 minutes of cooking to preserve their vibrant flavor and color.
This chicken tomato sauce recipe is your gateway to countless culinary adventures. Experiment with different herbs and spices, add vegetables, or serve it with your favorite protein. Enjoy!
