Roasted Tomato Chicken

This roasted tomato braised chicken is a hearty, oven-baked dish where tender chicken breasts simmer in a rich, herb-infused tomato and garlic sauce, creating a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any night of the week.

This comforting dish begins by infusing a generous pour of golden olive oil with rich, savory aromas. As the oil warms in an oven-safe pot, tender pieces of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, seasoned with salt and pepper and lightly dredged in flour, are seared until beautifully golden on both sides. This quick browning locks in moisture and adds a deliciously crisp texture to the exterior of the chicken.

Once the chicken is set aside, the same pot is used to build a deeply flavorful base. Additional olive oil is added to soften and sweeten finely minced onions, cooked gently until translucent and fragrant. Freshly minced garlic is stirred in next, blooming with heat for just 30 seconds to release its robust aroma without burning.

The dish comes together with a medley of wholesome, pantry-friendly ingredients: a splash of chicken broth adds body, while crushed tomatoes lend brightness and depth. A trio of dried herbs, oregano, thyme, and basil, melds into the sauce, creating a classic, Italian-inspired warmth. A pinch of salt enhances the harmony of flavors.

As the sauce simmers to a gentle boil, the chicken is returned to the pot, nestled into the tomato broth until fully submerged. This ensures the meat stays tender and juicy as it braises in the oven. The entire pot is transferred to a 350°F oven, where it bakes for 50 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen. The chicken emerges fork-tender and infused with the savory, herbaceous essence of the tomato sauce.

Serve warm over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or a bed of buttered noodles for a soul-satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan, if desired. It's rustic, hearty, and perfect for cozy evenings at home.

Olive Oil
A heart-healthy fat rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Olive oil provides a smooth, fruity base for sautéing and browning, helping to develop depth and richness in the dish while also contributing to the sauce’s silky texture.

Sweet Onion
Sweet onions add a gentle, mellow sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. When sautéed, they soften and caramelize slightly, infusing the dish with a warm, savory undertone that forms the flavor base of the sauce.

Garlic
Aromatic and pungent, garlic sharpens the flavor of the sauce. When briefly cooked in oil, it releases its natural oils, becoming more mellow and fragrant. It elevates the entire dish with its classic Mediterranean essence.

Chicken Broth
A foundational liquid that deepens the overall flavor and adds body to the sauce. The savory richness of chicken broth helps tenderize the chicken as it bakes and enhances the overall umami profile.

Crushed Tomatoes
These provide a thick, slightly textured base for the sauce. Crushed tomatoes are bright, tangy, and slightly sweet, delivering bold tomato flavor and a comforting red hue. They also contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.

Dried Oregano
Earthy and slightly bitter, oregano is a key herb in Mediterranean and Italian cooking. It complements tomatoes beautifully and adds complexity to the sauce.

Dried Thyme
With its subtle, woodsy flavor and floral aroma, thyme provides an herbal backbone that rounds out the savoriness of the dish.

Dried Basil
Sweet and mildly peppery, dried basil adds a soft, aromatic lift that pairs especially well with tomato-based sauces.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
Lean and protein-rich, these serve as the centerpiece of the dish. Cutting them into portions allows for even cooking and maximum absorption of the tomato-herb sauce, keeping the meat tender and moist.

Flour
Used to lightly coat the chicken before browning, the flour helps create a delicate crust that seals in juices. It also thickens the sauce slightly as it bakes, giving it a heartier, more satisfying texture.

Salt and pepper to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper adds a slight kick and complexity, while salt further enhances and harmonizes the dish’s flavors. Adjusting these to taste allows for personalization and balance.