Easy Chicken Dinner with a Delicious Sauce
A tasty chicken dish in a savory sauce can be a wonderful addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. This easy and delicious recipe is perfect for busy home cooks looking for quick yet satisfying meals. With its combination of tender chicken and a rich sauce, it can be a great family favorite. Plus, this meal is high in protein, making it filling and well-suited for those needing nourishment to power through their day.
Why This Recipe Is Helpful
- Quick and straightforward preparation, ideal for busy evenings.
- High in protein, making it filling and energy-boosting.
- Versatile, as it pairs well with a variety of sides, like rice or vegetables.
Best For
This recipe is perfect for families, busy individuals, and anyone looking for a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Be Careful If
Be mindful if you are managing your sodium intake, as the soy sauce adds salt to the dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) for garnish
Ingredient Notes
- Chicken Breasts: You can substitute with thighs for a richer flavor.
- Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth can be used for less sodium.
- Diced Tomatoes: Use fresh tomatoes in season for a fresher taste.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Toss in the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then stir in the soy sauce and paprika.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs for an added touch of flavor.
Pro Tips
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding chicken; this helps improve browning.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Taste along the way to adjust the seasoning based on your preference.
Lighter Swaps
For a lighter option, you can use skinless chicken breast and reduce the amount of oil. However, the original version offers the best flavor.
Common Mistakes
- Not allowing the skillet to heat properly before cooking the chicken can result in steaming instead of browning.
- Overcrowding the pan will steam the chicken instead of browning it, so cook in batches if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken meal pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a fresh green salad to complete your dinner plate.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheating Tips
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Nutrition Estimate
Calories: 350
Protein: 43 g
Carbs: 10 g
Fat: 15 g
Values are estimates and may vary by ingredients and portion size.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: American
Course: Dinner
Calories: 350
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it first and cook it for a little longer to ensure it’s cooked through.
What can I serve with this chicken dish?
It goes well with rice, pasta, or even a side of roasted vegetables.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It keeps well and can be reheated for a quick meal throughout the week.
You can find more delightful recipes, such as delicious small batch baked oatmeal cups or easy protein coffee cake, to complement your meal planning and enjoyment!
Savory Chicken Dish
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces You can substitute with thighs for a richer flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth Low-sodium chicken broth can be used for less sodium.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes Use fresh tomatoes in season for a fresher taste.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Toss in the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then stir in the soy sauce and paprika.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs for an added touch of flavor.
