Chicken with mushrooms in tomato sauce

Chicken with Mushrooms in Tomato Sauce Recipe – A Delight Served with Polenta

Chicken in tomato sauce is a classic recipe loved by many, but today we’re going to turn it into an unforgettable experience by enriching it with flavorful mushrooms. This dish is not only simple but also packed with aromas and colors, making it perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. Let’s discover together how to prepare this delicious dish!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 200 g chicken tenderloin
- 200 g boneless chicken thighs
- 4-5 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- salt to taste
- ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
- 600 ml water
- 250 g champignon mushrooms (or your favorite fresh mushrooms)
- 400 g canned whole peeled tomatoes
- 3 fresh basil leaves
- 1 bay leaf
- a few black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh parsley

Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the tenderloin and chicken thighs into evenly sized pieces so they cook uniformly. Rinse the meat well under cold running water, then sprinkle with salt and sweet paprika. These spices will not only add flavor but also a beautiful color to your dish.

2. Cooking the meat: In a wok or deep skillet, add 4-5 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and let them brown for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the meat has turned golden, add 300 ml of water and cover with a lid. Let it simmer on low heat until the water reduces, about 15-20 minutes.

3. Preparing the mushrooms: Meanwhile, wash the mushrooms and slice them thinly. Once the chicken is cooked, add the mushrooms to the meat and sprinkle with a little salt. Sauté them for a few minutes until they start to soften.

4. Making the tomato sauce: While the mushrooms are cooking, place the canned tomatoes in a blender and blend until smooth. When the mushrooms are sautéed, add the tomato juice along with 50 ml of water, basil leaves, bay leaf, black peppercorns, and dried marjoram. Let everything simmer on low heat for about 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens.

5. Finishing the dish: Once the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat and let the dish cool for a few minutes. Add the peeled, washed, and crushed garlic cloves along with the chopped fresh parsley. These ingredients will add extra flavor and freshness to your dish.

6. Serving: Serve the chicken with mushrooms in tomato sauce alongside a generous portion of warm polenta. This classic combination will turn your meal into a true feast of flavors!

Practical tips:

- Choosing the meat: You can also use other types of chicken, such as breasts or whole thighs, but make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the pieces.
- Types of mushrooms: If you want a more intense flavor, you can opt for shiitake or porcini mushrooms. These will add a rich flavor and a sophisticated look to the dish.
- Vegetarian option: For a vegetarian recipe, replace the chicken with tofu or a mix of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant.
- Additional sauces: If you like a spicier sauce, you can add a little chili pepper or a few slices of fresh chili during cooking.

Nutritional information:

This chicken with mushrooms in tomato sauce recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while mushrooms are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Tomatoes provide a significant amount of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and garlic and parsley are known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Just make sure to peel and chop them before adding them to the dish.

2. How can I store leftovers?
The chicken with mushrooms in tomato sauce can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days and can be reheated in the oven or skillet.

3. What other side dishes can I use?
Besides polenta, this dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

In conclusion, chicken with mushrooms in tomato sauce is an accessible, versatile, and flavorful recipe. I invite you to try it and let your creativity shine in the kitchen! Enjoy your meal!