Tomato Braised Chicken Thighs
Introduction
Tomato Braised Chicken Thighs
Tomato Braised Chicken Thighs is a comforting and delicious recipe that combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with a rich and flavorful tomato-based sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant meal that will impress your guests. Packed with simple ingredients and cooked to perfection, this recipe not only tastes fantastic but is also quite easy to make.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Key Ingredients
– Chicken thighs: 6 bone-in, skin-on pieces
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Onion: 1 medium, diced
– Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
– Canned tomatoes: 1 can (28 ounces), diced or crushed
– Chicken broth: 1/2 cup
– Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
– Fresh thyme: 3-4 sprigs, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Red pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
– Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
– Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
– Parsley: Fresh, chopped for garnish
Prep Time
Quick Prep for an Easy Start
This dish requires about 10 minutes of preparation. Begin by gathering all the ingredients, chopping the onion and garlic, and seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cooking Details
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 to 6 servings
This wholesome recipe is crafted to meet the needs of almost any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a small group, or hosting a dinner gathering, Tomato Braised Chicken Thighs provides the perfect fusion of satisfying flavors and wholesome ingredients. The enticing aroma of tomatoes and herbs as it simmers creates an invitation for everyone to gather around the dinner table for a meal to remember.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Thighs
Trim any excess fat or skin from the chicken thighs. Season each side generously with salt and black pepper. Set aside while preparing the remaining ingredients.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook the other side for 2-3 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 4: Deglaze the Skillet
Pour in a small amount of chicken broth or white wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. This will add flavor to the dish.
Step 5: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
Add canned diced tomatoes along with any desired herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or basil, to the skillet. Stir to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Return the Chicken to the Skillet
Nestle the seared chicken thighs into the tomato mixture, ensuring they are partially submerged. Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve the tomato-braised chicken thighs with your choice of side dishes, such as rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
Notes
Note on Chicken Thighs
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are recommended for this recipe as they provide the best flavor and texture. However, boneless skinless thighs or even chicken breasts can be substituted if preferred.
Note on Tomatoes
Canned diced tomatoes are convenient and flavorful, but you can also use fresh tomatoes if desired. If using fresh tomatoes, be sure to blanch and peel them before adding them to the dish.
Note on Cooking Liquid
White wine or chicken broth can be used to deglaze the pan. If you prefer not to use alcohol, opt for chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor.
Note on Seasonings
Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your personal taste. Add ingredients like paprika, cumin, or smoked paprika for additional flavor variations.
Note on Storage
Leftover tomato-braised chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
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Cook Techniques
Cooking the Chicken Thighs
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps them sear properly and develop a crispy, golden crust. In a hot skillet with a drizzle of olive oil, sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until the skin is crisp and golden brown. Flip and cook for another minute or two to lightly brown the other side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Creating the Tomato Braise
In the same skillet, sauté diced onion, garlic, and any other aromatics until softened and fragrant. Pour crushed tomatoes into the skillet, followed by chicken broth or white wine for added depth. Stir well to combine, then let it simmer and reduce slightly to enhance the flavor.
Simmering and Finishing
Nestle the seared chicken thighs into the tomato sauce, ensuring they are partially submerged. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Periodically spoon some sauce over the chicken thighs to keep them moist and flavorful.
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used in this recipe. Keep in mind that they may cook faster than bone-in chicken thighs, so adjust cooking times accordingly.
Can I substitute chicken breasts for thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be substituted, but be careful not to overcook them, as they tend to dry out more quickly than chicken thighs.
What can I use instead of crushed tomatoes?
You can use canned diced tomatoes or tomato sauce as an alternative. If using diced tomatoes, you might want to blend them for a smoother consistency.
What sides pair well with tomato-braised chicken thighs?
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. A green salad or roasted vegetables also work wonderfully as sides.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time. The flavors develop even more as it sits. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, then reheat gently before serving.
Can I freeze tomato-braised chicken thighs?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I add extra vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely. Consider adding vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the tomato sauce for a heartier meal.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe is not inherently spicy. However, if you’d like to add some heat, you can include red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers when creating the tomato sauce.
Conclusion
Tomato Braised Chicken Thighs is a flavorful and hearty dish that’s perfect for a comforting dinner. With its tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce, this recipe is a great choice for a satisfying meal that doesn’t take a lot of effort to prepare. Whether you serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside crusty bread, this dish is sure to impress and become a family’s favorite for its simplicity and depth of flavor.
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