Mondays, am I right? After a long day, the last thing I want is a complicated dinner. That’s where this Creamy Tomato Chicken swoops in like a culinary superhero—quick, comforting, and practically begging to be devoured. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a luscious tomato sauce, kind of like wrapping yourself in a warm, savory hug.
Steps
- Flatten the chicken breasts so they have an even thickness. Season them with 3/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, with the top-side facing down, and cook undisturbed for 4 minutes until lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4 minutes.
- Turn the chicken once more and continue cooking for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, flipping occasionally, until fully cooked and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- Without cleaning the skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the diced red onion for about 3 minutes until slightly softened, scraping any browned bits from the pan.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the tomatoes, capers, red wine vinegar, honey, and the remaining salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately, enjoying the flavorful combination of chicken and tomatoes.
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 4 small or 3 medium-sized)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- ½ medium red onion, diced (around 1 cup)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 4 cups grape tomatoes or assorted other tomatoes, or diced plum tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup drained capers
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Nutritional Values
Calories: 896kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 116g | Fat: 44g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 276mg | Sodium: 2352mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 12g
FAQ
- Can I use other types of tomatoes for this recipe?
- Absolutely! While the recipe calls for cherry or grape tomatoes, you can substitute them with any ripe tomatoes you have on hand, such as diced plum tomatoes.
- What should I serve with Skillet Tomato Chicken?
- This dish pairs wonderfully with oven-roasted asparagus, crispy roasted sweet potatoes, or honey-roasted carrots, providing a balanced and flavorful meal.
- Can I use a different type of vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?
- Yes, you can substitute red wine vinegar with another type of vinegar, such as balsamic or apple cider vinegar, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
- How do I ensure that the chicken is cooked properly?
- To ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Is it necessary to use a cast iron skillet for this recipe?
- While a cast iron skillet is recommended for its even heat distribution, you can use any large, heavy-bottomed skillet that you have available.
Tips
- Ensure Even Cooking: Lightly pound the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness. This helps them cook evenly and prevents the edges from drying out while ensuring the center is fully cooked.
- Maximize Flavor: Don’t clean the skillet after cooking the chicken. Reducing the heat and cooking the onions in the same pan allows you to scrape up the delicious browned bits, adding extra depth and flavor to your dish.
- Tomato Selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of tomatoes, like grape, cherry, or plum. Choose whatever is freshest and ripest for the best flavor.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. This guarantees that the chicken is cooked safely while keeping it juicy.
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet – A heavy-bottomed skillet is recommended for this recipe.
- Non-Slip Cutting Board – For safe and efficient chopping of ingredients.
