Chicken breast in tomato and garlic sauce served with polenta

Chicken Breast in Tomato and Garlic Sauce with Polenta

Today, I propose a delicious recipe, perfect for a family meal or a night with friends: chicken breast in tomato and garlic sauce, accompanied by creamy polenta. This combination will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of nostalgia in every bite. The preparation is simple, and the result is a dish that brightens up any table.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

For the chicken breast in tomato sauce:
- 2 chicken breasts (about 1.2 kg)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 6-7 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil for a richer taste)
- 500 ml of water
- 1 can of 400 g of whole peeled tomatoes
- A few black peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
- A sprig of fresh basil
- A sprig of fresh rosemary
- 5-6 cloves of garlic
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional, only if the tomatoes are sour)
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh parsley, finely chopped

For the polenta:
- 2 liters of water
- 4 tablespoons of oil
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 450 g of cornmeal

History and Traditions

This recipe combines simple yet flavorful ingredients that have been used throughout time in various culinary cultures. Chicken, a popular source of protein, is often cooked with rich sauces, while tomatoes and garlic add a Mediterranean character that turns every meal into a celebration. Polenta, a traditional dish, is ideal for accompanying any wet dish, absorbing the delicious juices.

Step by Step Preparation

1. Preparing the chicken breast:

Wash the chicken breast well and cut it into evenly sized cubes for even cooking. Sprinkle salt and sweet paprika over the meat, mixing well to blend the flavors.

2. Cooking the chicken:

In a wok or deep skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and fry them until golden on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Add 300 ml of water and cover the wok with a lid. Let the meat simmer on low heat until the water has completely evaporated.

3. Preparing the tomato sauce:

While the chicken is cooking, place the canned tomatoes in a food processor and blend until you obtain a smooth paste. Once the chicken is cooked, add the tomato paste to the wok, along with the pepper, bay leaf, basil, and rosemary. Also add 200 ml of water and let everything simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce starts to thicken (about 10-15 minutes).

4. Finalizing the sauce:

Remove the wok from the heat and, if the tomatoes were sour, add the tablespoon of sugar. Let it cool slightly, then add the peeled and crushed garlic, as well as the chopped parsley. Mix well and let the flavors blend.

5. Preparing the polenta:

In a pot, add 2 liters of water, the oil, and the salt. Place the pot over heat and wait for the water to reach near boiling point. When the water starts to boil, add the cornmeal in a rain-like fashion, stirring vigorously with a whisk to prevent lumps from forming. Keep stirring and let the polenta simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it pulls away from the sides of the pot (about 15-20 minutes).

6. Serving:

Pour the polenta into a damp dish and let it cool slightly. Serve the chicken breast in tomato sauce alongside generous portions of polenta. You can decorate the plate with a few fresh basil or parsley leaves for an attractive look.

Practical Tips

- For a more intense flavor: Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned, but make sure to blanch and peel them.
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the chicken breast with tofu or mushrooms for a healthier variant.
- Customized flavors: Add chili peppers or spices like oregano and thyme to add a touch of spiciness.
- Serving: This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a cold beer.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken breast?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking.

2. How long can I store the tomato sauce?
The sauce can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or frozen for later use.

3. What can I do with leftover polenta?
Leftover polenta can be cut into slices and fried in oil, served as a delicious side dish.

This recipe for chicken breast in tomato and garlic sauce with polenta is perfect for bringing a smile to your loved ones' faces. It’s a meal that not only nourishes but also brings people together. So, prepare your ingredients and let’s create some delicious memories!