Chicken in tomato sauce

Homemade chicken in tomato sauce – a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love the aroma of juicy chicken cooked in fresh tomato sauce? This simple and delicious homemade chicken recipe in tomato sauce is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends at a special meal. It is a recipe that combines the flavor of chicken with the sweetness of tomatoes, resulting in a comforting dish that reminds us of the lovingly cooked meals by our grandparents.

Ingredients

- 2 chicken drumsticks
- 2 chicken thighs
- 200 g boneless chicken breast
- 2 green onions
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 150 ml tomato juice (preferably from fresh tomatoes)
- 4 teaspoons chili sauce (adjustable to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon marjoram
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon balm (optional, for a fresher taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil

Ingredient details

- Chicken: Choosing homemade chicken adds flavor and better texture. Homemade chicken is juicier and has a distinct taste.
- Onion and bell pepper: These vegetables not only add flavor but also a beautiful color to the dish. Green onion brings a fresh note, while the peppers make the sauce even more appealing.
- Tomato juice: Using freshly made tomato juice or high-quality canned juice will bring an intense flavor to the dish.
- Spices: Oregano, marjoram, and lemon balm are herbs that perfectly complement the flavor of the tomato sauce.

Step by step

1. Boiling the meat:
Start by placing the chicken in a large pot covered with water. Boil the meat for 20 minutes. This step will help remove impurities and make the meat more tender. After boiling, remove the meat from the pot and let it cool slightly on a plate.

2. Preparing the vegetables:
Wash and chop the green onions and bell pepper. You can use a sharp knife to get uniform cubes. This will help the vegetables cook evenly.

3. Sautéing the vegetables:
In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.

4. Adding the meat:
Once the vegetables are ready, add the boiled chicken, cut into smaller pieces, directly into the skillet. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

5. Preparing the sauce:
Pour a cup of water over the meat and vegetables. Let it simmer on low heat until the meat is almost cooked, about 15 minutes. This step will help develop the flavors.

6. Adding the tomato sauce:
Add the tomato juice, chili sauce, salt, pepper, and spices (oregano, marjoram, and lemon balm). Mix well and let it simmer on low heat for another 10-15 minutes. This time will allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to combine.

7. Finalizing the dish:
With 5 minutes before turning off the heat, add the chopped herbs. This detail will bring an extra freshness to the dish.

8. Serving:
Serve the chicken in tomato sauce alongside new potatoes baked in the oven or rice. This combination will make your meals an unforgettable feast!

Presentation suggestions

For an even more attractive presentation, you can sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top or a few slices of red bell pepper for a color contrast.

Possible variations

- Spicy chicken: You can add more chili sauce or even a few slices of hot pepper to enhance the intensity of the flavor.
- Vegan: Replace the meat with marinated tofu or tempeh, and the tomato juice can be replaced with a spicier tomato sauce to create a vegan version of this dish.
- Cream sauce: If you want a creamier version, add a few tablespoons of sour cream at the end.

Nutritional benefits

This homemade chicken in tomato sauce recipe is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Tomatoes are excellent sources of lycopene, an antioxidant that helps protect the body. Additionally, chicken is a good source of lean protein, essential for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but the cooking time will be shorter. Make sure not to overcook to avoid drying out the meat.

- How can I store the sauce?
The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

- What can I serve alongside?
Besides the baked new potatoes, you can opt for a fresh green salad or polenta, which will perfectly complement the flavor of the dish.

In conclusion, this homemade chicken in tomato sauce recipe is not only simple but also full of flavors and colors. I invite you to try it and share the joy of a lovingly cooked dish with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!