Tomato sauce with chicken breast and basil

Tomato sauce with chicken breast and basil - a delicious, simple, and flavorful recipe!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I will share with you a simple yet absolutely delicious recipe: tomato sauce with chicken breast and basil. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, but also for those days when you want to indulge in a savory dish without too much hassle. It is also a great way to use fresh tomatoes and summer flavors, and the fresh basil adds a touch of freshness and an inviting aroma.

A brief history

Tomato sauce is an essential culinary base in many cultures, used in countless dishes. Combining it with chicken breast is not only a tasty choice but also a healthy one. This recipe is simple, but every step matters to achieve a rich, flavorful sauce, and the fresh basil becomes the star of this dish.

Ingredients

- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500g)
- 5 medium ripe tomatoes
- 2 cups of tomato juice (preferably natural)
- 100 ml of water
- 100 ml of white wine (optional, but recommended for a more complex flavor)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 1-2 tablespoons of sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh basil, chopped
- Olive oil (or sunflower oil)

Necessary utensils

- A pot
- A frying pan
- A sharp knife
- A spatula or wooden spoon
- A metal or plastic spoon for mixing
- A cutting board

Preparing the tomato sauce with chicken breast

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by washing the tomatoes well. It is important to choose ripe, high-quality tomatoes to achieve a rich and tasty sauce. Cut the tomatoes into large cubes, not too small, to maintain their texture. The garlic will be sliced thinly.

Step 2: Cooking the tomatoes

In a pot, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their juice. This step is essential, as it will intensify the flavor of the tomatoes.

Step 3: Adding the tomato juice

Pour in the tomato juice and mix well. Add the sliced garlic and water. Let the sauce simmer over low heat, covered, for about 10 minutes. This time will allow the flavors to blend nicely.

Step 4: Preparing the chicken breast

Meanwhile, cut the chicken breast into evenly sized cubes. This will ensure even cooking. Heat oil in the frying pan and add the chicken cubes. Sauté them lightly on all sides for 5-7 minutes. It is important not to overcrowd the meat in the pan to ensure even browning.

Step 5: Combining the ingredients

Once the chicken breast is browned, add it to the pot with the tomato sauce. For an extra flavor boost, add the white wine, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything well and let it simmer over low heat, covered, for 35-40 minutes. This time will allow the meat to absorb the flavors from the sauce and become tender.

Step 6: Finalizing and serving

After the cooking time has elapsed, check the sauce. It should be thick and rich, and the chicken breast should be fully cooked. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper if necessary. Finally, add the chopped fresh basil, stirring gently to preserve its aroma.

Serving the dish

Tomato sauce with chicken breast can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some suggestions:

- Rice: Rice absorbs the sauce perfectly, providing a contrast of textures.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes will add a delicious and comforting element.
- Pasta: An excellent choice, especially if you enjoy combining tomato flavors with carbohydrates.
- Polenta: A traditional option that pairs wonderfully with the rich sauce.

For a special touch, you can sprinkle grated cheese or parmesan on top, which will melt easily in the warm sauce.

Practical tips

- Using tomatoes: If you have fresh tomatoes, you can opt for them, but canned tomatoes are also a good option. Choose those in their own juice to avoid additives.
- White wine: If you don’t consume alcohol, you can omit it or replace it with a little chicken broth.
- Sugar: This helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Adjust the quantity according to your preferences.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like peppers or zucchini for a richer sauce. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or dill, to customize the recipe.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only full of flavors but also very nutritious. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, and tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, benefiting heart health. Basil adds not only flavor but also anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken breast?
It is recommended to use fresh meat for the best results, but you can also use frozen meat, ensuring that you thaw it completely before cooking.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a little chili pepper or chili flakes during cooking to give it a spicier taste.

3. What can I do with leftovers?
You can keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for later use in other dishes, such as lasagna or soups.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for tomato sauce with chicken breast and basil has inspired you to refresh your menu! It is a versatile recipe that can be adapted according to your preferences. I encourage you to experiment and find combinations that you like. Cooking is an art, and each dish is an opportunity to create something unique. Enjoy your meal!