Chicken breast in tomato sauce on a bed of polenta

Name: Chicken breast in tomato sauce on a bed of polenta - Monalisa B.
Ingredients: 1 chicken breast; 3 cloves of garlic; 1 tablespoon of broth; salt; pepper; basil; 200 ml of crushed tomatoes; polenta

Diverse - Chicken breast in tomato sauce on a bed of polenta by Monalisa B. - Recipia

Chicken breast in tomato sauce on a bed of polenta: a delicious and comforting combination Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes Total time: 45 minutes Servings: 4 If you are looking for a quick and tasty recipe, chicken breast in tomato sauce on a bed of polenta is the perfect choice! This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, with a perfect balance between the rich aroma of the tomato sauce and the creamy texture of the polenta. It is a dish that brings back warm and comforting memories from childhood, and each bite will take you on a journey full of memories. A bit of history Polenta is a traditional dish that has been part of the staple diet of many cultures over time. It is versatile and goes well with a variety of dishes, but today we will focus on its combination with chicken breast in tomato sauce. This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy, providing quality protein and a mix of vitamins from tomatoes. Ingredients you need - 1 chicken breast (about 500g) - 3 cloves of garlic - 1 tablespoon of tomato paste (or tomato purée) - Salt, to taste - Pepper, to taste - Fresh or dried basil (to preference) - 200 ml of crushed tomatoes - 200g of cornmeal for polenta - 800 ml of water for polenta - Olive oil or vegetable oil Step-by-step preparation technique 1. Preparing the chicken breast Start by washing the chicken breast well under a stream of cold water. Remove any fat or membranes, then cut the meat into medium-sized pieces (about 3-4 cm). This will allow for even and quick cooking. 2. Preparing the tomato sauce In a medium pot, put 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté until they turn golden, being careful not to burn them, as burnt garlic will give a bitter taste to the sauce. 3. Adding ingredients for the sauce Once the garlic is ready, add the tablespoon of tomato paste and mix well. Then add the crushed tomatoes and 100 ml of water. Let the sauce simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. 4. Cooking the chicken When the sauce has started to boil, add the chicken breast pieces and season with salt, pepper, and basil. Mix well to coat the meat with the sauce. Let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully cooked. 5. Preparing the polenta In another pot, bring 800 ml of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and, when the water is boiling, gradually pour in the cornmeal, constantly stirring with a whisk or wooden spoon to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to stir for 10-15 minutes until the polenta becomes creamy and pulls away easily from the sides of the pot. 6. Plating To serve, place a generous portion of polenta on each plate and add a portion of the chicken breast in tomato sauce on top. You can garnish with fresh basil leaves for an attractive appearance and an extra touch of flavor. Useful tips - If you want an even richer sauce, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream to the tomato sauce before adding the chicken. - Substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a more intense flavor and juicier texture. - If you want to experiment with flavors, you can also add other spices such as oregano or paprika to give the sauce a twist. Calories and nutritional benefits This recipe offers approximately 450-500 calories per serving, depending on the exact quantities of ingredients used. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, while the tomato sauce provides antioxidants and essential vitamins. Polenta, on the other hand, is a good source of carbohydrates, providing the necessary energy for an active day. Frequently asked questions 1. Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! This recipe also works well with turkey or even beef, adjusting the cooking time as needed. 2. What can I use instead of polenta? If polenta is not to your liking, you can opt for mashed potatoes or rice. These will perfectly accompany the tomato sauce. 3. How can I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Polenta can be reheated in the oven or microwave. Serving suggestions For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a fresh green salad alongside this dish, enriching the meal with vitamins and minerals. A slice of fresh bread or a baguette would also be perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce. Recipe variations If you are a fan of vegetables, you can add carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the tomato sauce, transforming the dish into an even more nutritious meal. These vegetables not only add color but also fantastic flavor! In conclusion, chicken breast in tomato sauce on a bed of polenta is a recipe that combines simplicity with exceptional taste. Each step is an opportunity to enjoy cooking, and the final result will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Happy cooking!

Chicken breast in tomato sauce on a bed of polenta

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