Easy Italian Chicken in Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe

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Italian food has this incredible way of making simple ingredients feel like a hug on a plate, and this chicken recipe is no exception. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and slice if desired to reveal juicy, perfectly seasoned meat that pairs beautifully with a rich, vibrant tomato sauce bursting with garlic, herbs, and just a touch of heat. This dish is a celebration of classic flavors that come together effortlessly, making it an all-time favorite for weeknight dinners or impressing friends without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each bringing a unique touch that builds the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the fragrant Italian herbs to the fresh garlic and crushed tomatoes, every component plays a key role in this delightful chicken dish.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: the star of the dish, providing tender and juicy protein.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: for that golden sear and to add a silky richness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: delivers a subtle spice and depth.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: a perfect blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme for authentic flavor.
• 1 medium onion (diced): adds sweetness and texture to the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): brings aromatic warmth and depth.
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes: the base of the sauce, rich and vibrant.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: intensifies the tomato flavor with a smooth, thick texture.
• 1 teaspoon sugar: balances the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): adds a gentle kick for those who like a bit of heat.
• Fresh basil leaves: for a bright, herbaceous garnish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: the ultimate savory topping that melts into the sauce.

How to Make Easy Italian Chicken in Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry—this simple step helps achieve that beautiful sear. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and the fragrant Italian seasoning so every bite bursts with classic Mediterranean flavors.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook without moving them for about 5 to 6 minutes per side. This creates a golden crust that locks in juiciness. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and slice if desired, setting it aside to let those flavorful juices settle.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Using the same skillet, toss in the diced onions and sauté until they’re translucent and just beginning to caramelize, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir quickly for 30 seconds until fragrant—you don’t want it to burn! Pour in crushed tomatoes, then stir in tomato paste, sugar, and red pepper flakes if using, mixing everything together to create a luscious sauce that’s both sweet and slightly spicy.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Gently nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the sauce, spooning some of it over the top. Turn the heat down to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes so the flavors meld and the chicken cooks through perfectly. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and slice if desired, letting the sauce infuse every tender slice.

Step 5: Serve

Arrange your chicken slices on plates and spoon the rich tomato sauce generously over the top. Finish with a scattering of fresh basil leaves and a hearty sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a meal that’s full of soul and absolutely irresistible.

How to Serve Easy Italian Chicken in Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh, vibrant basil leaves add an herbaceous pop that lifts the dish, while grated Parmesan not only deepens the savory notes but also adds a creamy finish that melts beautifully into the warm sauce. A touch of cracked black pepper over the top just before serving can elevate the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up the sauce, like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery polenta. For a lighter contrast, a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables bring refreshing textures and colors to the table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual family dinner, serve the sliced chicken over a bed of al dente spaghetti or zucchini noodles. If you’re aiming to impress, use a shallow bowl to create a beautiful plate with chicken slices fanned out and sauce artfully drizzled alongside a sprinkle of cheese and herbs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and slice if desired before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, this dish freezes beautifully. Slice the chicken first, then place it in a freezer-safe container with the sauce to prevent drying out. Frozen portions can last up to 3 months, making this an easy meal prep winner.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist. Remember, once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and slice if desired before reheating to allow even warming without drying.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and have more fat, which can add richness to the dish. Adjust cooking times slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No worries! You can mix your own combo of dried basil, oregano, and thyme to keep that classic Italian flavor. Fresh herbs can also work wonderfully if you have them on hand.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes! Simply increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper in the sauce for a bolder kick. Just be sure to balance it with sugar to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

Is it necessary to slice the chicken before serving?

It’s totally optional. Slicing once the chicken is cooked allows the sauce to seep in and makes it easier to serve, but some prefer serving the breasts whole to showcase that beautiful sear.

How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer and look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Otherwise, slicing into the thickest part and checking that the juices run clear is a good visual cue.

Final Thoughts

This recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and slice if desired—the moment when all the prep work and flavors come to life on your plate. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every bite as much as I do. It’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again, guaranteed.

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