Chicken with tomato sauce in the oven

Oven-Baked Chicken with Tomato Sauce - a classic, delicious, and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for family gatherings or romantic meals. This recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken with tomato sauce and spices, providing a result that not only delights the taste buds but also fills the house with appetizing aromas. I invite you to discover the steps to achieve this savory dish, which will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1 large chicken (about 2 kg)
- 2 cans of tomatoes: one diced and one whole
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- 2 large onions
- 1 head of garlic (about 6-8 cloves)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 bay leaves
- Cornmeal for polenta

The story behind the recipe

This oven-baked chicken with tomato sauce recipe has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Chicken and tomato sauce dishes have been cooked over time due to the accessibility of the ingredients and their versatility. Chicken, as the main ingredient, is rich in protein and can be prepared in countless ways. The tomato sauce, on the other hand, adds a pleasant acidity and rich flavor, turning every meal into a celebration of taste.

Preparing the ingredients

1. Preparing the chicken: Cut the chicken into equal-sized pieces and wash them under cold running water. Allow them to drain well in a colander so that excess water is removed. This step is essential for achieving a beautiful crust during baking.

2. Onions and garlic: Peel the onions and slice them thinly. For the garlic, separate the head and slice the cloves finely. The garlic aroma will enhance the dish's flavor.

Assembling the dish

1. Arranging in the pan: In a large baking pan, place some of the sliced onion on the bottom. This will create a flavorful bed for the chicken. Add a few slices of garlic, then place the chicken pieces on top.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle the remaining onion and garlic over the chicken, add salt, oregano, and bay leaves. These spices not only enrich the flavor but also add subtle aromas that will infuse into the meat.

3. Tomato sauce: Prepare the tomato sauce by blending the two cans. You can use a blender to achieve a smooth consistency. Pour the sauce over the chicken, evenly covering all pieces.

4. Finalizing the dish: Drizzle everything with olive oil to add a touch of richness and help brown the chicken. Cover the pan with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.

Baking

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, remove the aluminum foil to allow the chicken to brown nicely.

Serving

After the chicken has been removed from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This step helps retain the juices in the meat. Meanwhile, prepare the polenta. Boil water with salt, gradually add the cornmeal, and stir constantly to avoid lumps. Once the polenta is ready, serve it alongside the chicken with tomato sauce.

Serving suggestions

This dish is wonderful served hot, but it can also be enjoyed cold, making it perfect for a quick lunch. A side of green salad or a tomato and cucumber salad will perfectly complement the meal.

Variations and tips

- You can experiment with other herbs, such as basil or thyme, to change the flavor.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the tomato sauce for an even healthier meal.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add some chili flakes to the tomato sauce.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use thawed chicken?
Yes, make sure the chicken is completely thawed before cooking to avoid uneven baking.

2. How can I store leftovers?
The chicken can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven.

3. Is this recipe suitable for diets?
Chicken is an excellent source of protein, and the tomato sauce provides antioxidants. Served with polenta, it becomes a balanced meal.

4. What other recipes can it be combined with?
This chicken pairs perfectly with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. Additionally, brown rice or whole wheat pasta are excellent options.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This recipe offers approximately 450-500 calories per serving, depending on the portion size and ingredients used. Chicken is rich in protein, while the tomato sauce provides vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting a healthy lifestyle.

I hope this oven-baked chicken with tomato sauce recipe has inspired you to create a delicious dish in your kitchen. Remember to enjoy every step of the process and share the result with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!