Quick and Flavorful Chicken Dinner: A Simple and Traditional Recipe

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Looking for a quick, delicious, and wholesome meal that brings comfort and satisfaction to your dinner table? This recipe for a flavorful chicken dinner is perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something hearty yet easy to prepare. With tender chicken breasts, a medley of vibrant vegetables, and a savory tomato sauce, this dish combines the warmth of traditional cooking with the convenience of a simple, one-pan meal. Let’s dive into this effortless recipe that promises to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 2.2 lb (1 kg) chicken breasts
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 4 tbsp flour

For the Vegetables and Sauce:

  • 6 medium potatoes
  • 1 onion
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • 2 Kapia peppers (or any red bell pepper)
  • 3.5 oz (100 g) cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup (240 ml) tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
  • 1/2 tsp thyme
  • 1/2 tsp basil
  • 1/2 tsp rosemary
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 7 oz (200 g) mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

  • Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken breasts.
  • Lightly coat the chicken with flour, shaking off any excess.
  • Heat a small amount of oil in a large pan on medium heat.
  • Introduce the chicken and cook until it achieves a golden-brown color on each side, roughly 4-5 minutes per side.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

  • Peel and cut the potatoes into thin slices.
  • Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
  • Slice the Kapia peppers and halve the cherry tomatoes.

3. Cook the Vegetables:

  • In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.
  • Add the potatoes, peppers, and cherry tomatoes, cooking until the vegetables start to soften.

4. Make the Sauce:

  • Pour in the tomato puree and water, then add the thyme, basil, rosemary, and salt. Stir to combine.
  • Let the sauce cook gently for a few minutes until it reduces and becomes slightly thicker.

5. Combine and Bake:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In an oven-safe dish, layer the cooked vegetables and sauce at the bottom, then place the chicken breasts on top.
  • Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the chicken and vegetables.

6. Bake:

  • Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is fully cooked through.

7. Serve:

  • Top with freshly chopped parsley and serve while warm.

Conclusion:

This quick and flavorful chicken dinner is not only easy to make but also a comforting meal that will please everyone at the table. The tender chicken, combined with the richness of the vegetables and the cheesy goodness on top, creates a delightful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy the simplicity and tradition in every bite!