Polenta with chicken breast in tomato sauce

Polenta with chicken breast in tomato sauce

Polenta is a classic dish that originates from culinary traditions, being one of the most beloved recipes of our gastronomy. It is a comforting meal, full of flavor, perfect to be served alongside a steak or other meat-based dishes. In this recipe, we will combine polenta with chicken breast cooked in tomato sauce, and the result will be a delicious, easy-to-make, and very satisfying meal.

Total preparation time: 60 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the polenta:
- 250 g cornmeal
- 1 liter water
- 1 teaspoon salt

For the chicken breast in tomato sauce:
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500 g)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 100 ml olive oil or sunflower oil
- 300 ml water
- 1-2 tablespoons dried basil
- salt, to taste

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the chicken breast
Start by cleaning the chicken breast of skin, then wash it well under cold running water. After cleaning, cut it into thin slices, about 1-2 cm thick. This will help the meat cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors of the tomato sauce.

Step 2: Marinating the chicken
In a bowl, add the slices of chicken breast, sprinkle with salt and dried basil, then rub the meat well with the spices. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Preparing the tomato sauce
In a deeper baking dish, add the tomato paste and dilute it with 50 ml of water, mixing well. This step is essential for achieving a smooth and flavorful sauce. Add the oil and the remaining water, then homogenize the mixture.

Step 4: Cooking the chicken
Place the dish in the preheated oven at 180°C. Add the slices of chicken breast to the tomato sauce, then cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Let everything bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the chicken becomes tender and the sauce starts to bubble.

Step 5: Preparing the polenta
In a large pot, add the water and salt, then put it on medium heat. Once the water starts to boil, slowly add the cornmeal, stirring constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon. Continue stirring until the polenta becomes thick and pulls away from the pot's sides. This process takes about 10-15 minutes.

Step 6: Serving
After the chicken breast is cooked, remove the aluminum foil and let it brown for a few minutes. Serve the polenta hot, with the chicken slices on top, drizzled with the tomato sauce. If desired, you can add a handful of grated cheese on top, as my husband chose, for an extra flavor boost.

Useful tips:
- You can also add vegetables to the tomato sauce, such as onions, peppers, or zucchini, to enrich the dish.
- Polenta can also be served cold, cut into cubes and gently fried in a pan to achieve a crispy crust.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can replace the chicken breast with pork or turkey tenderloin, but the cooking time may vary.

2. How can I store the polenta?
Polenta keeps well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in a pan.

3. What are the nutritional benefits?
Polenta is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy, while chicken breast is rich in protein, helping to maintain muscle mass.

This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends during a gathering. Combine it with a fresh salad or a glass of white wine, and the meal will be truly memorable. Enjoy your meal!