Fire Roasted Tomato Chicken: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Fire Roasted Tomato Chicken: just the name conjures up images of smoky, succulent chicken bathed in a rich, vibrant sauce, doesn’t it? I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, because it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender chicken, infused with the deep, charred flavor of fire-roasted tomatoes and a medley of aromatic herbs. This isn’t your average weeknight dinner; it’s a culinary adventure that’s surprisingly easy to pull off.

While the exact origins of combining chicken with fire-roasted tomatoes are difficult to pinpoint, the technique of roasting tomatoes over an open flame has ancient roots in many cultures, particularly in Mediterranean and Latin American cuisine. This method was traditionally used to preserve the harvest and impart a unique smoky sweetness to the tomatoes. Over time, cooks discovered how beautifully these roasted tomatoes complemented poultry, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

People adore Fire Roasted Tomato Chicken for several reasons. First, the taste is simply irresistible. The fire-roasting process intensifies the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while adding a delightful smoky depth. This, combined with the savory chicken and fragrant herbs, creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Second, the texture is divine. The chicken becomes incredibly tender and juicy, while the sauce is rich and velvety. Finally, despite its gourmet flavor profile, this dish is surprisingly convenient to make. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time. So, let’s get started and create some magic in the kitchen!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Fire Roasted Tomato Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional Garnishes:
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Crusty bread, for serving

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Make sure every part of the chicken is covered with the seasoning.

Making the Fire Roasted Tomato Sauce:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Incorporate the Tomatoes: Pour in the can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes (undrained) and the can of tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
4. Add the Broth and Tomato Paste: Stir in the chicken broth and tomato paste. The tomato paste will help thicken the sauce and deepen the flavor.
5. Season the Sauce: Add the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or sugar depending on your preference.

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a separate large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the chicken in batches.
2. Sear Each Side: Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely browned. The searing process helps to lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust.
3. Transfer to Sauce: Carefully transfer the seared chicken breasts to the skillet with the fire-roasted tomato sauce. Make sure the chicken is submerged in the sauce as much as possible.
4. Simmer in Sauce: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Serving the Fire Roasted Tomato Chicken:

1. Check for Doneness: Before serving, double-check that the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C). If the chicken is not quite done, continue to simmer it in the sauce for a few more minutes.
2. Serve Hot: Serve the fire-roasted tomato chicken hot, spooning plenty of the delicious sauce over each chicken breast.
3. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. These additions add a fresh and flavorful touch to the dish.
4. Serve with Sides: Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce, or with your favorite sides such as pasta, rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to control the spice level of the dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit them altogether.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables to the sauce, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Sauté them along with the onions and garlic.
• Creamy Sauce: For a creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of heavy cream or sour cream at the end of the cooking time.
• Wine: Add a splash of dry red wine to the sauce while it’s simmering for a richer flavor.
• Slow Cooker: This recipe can also be adapted for the slow cooker. Sear the chicken as directed, then transfer it to the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the chicken and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Oven Baked: You can bake this dish in the oven. Sear the chicken as directed, then transfer it to a baking dish. Pour the sauce over the chicken and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
• Make Ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the sauce before adding the chicken.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pasta: Serve over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine.
• Rice: Serve with white rice, brown rice, or quinoa.
• Potatoes: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or baked potatoes.
• Vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
• Salad: Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Bread: Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g

This fire-roasted tomato chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of the smoky chicken and the rich, tangy tomato sauce is simply irresistible. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This Fire Roasted Tomato Chicken recipe isn’t just another chicken dish; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The smoky char from the fire-roasted tomatoes combined with the tender, juicy chicken creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. I truly believe this will become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Why is it a must-try? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality results without the restaurant price tag. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to master it. The fire-roasting technique, whether done on a grill or under your broiler, infuses the tomatoes with a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. The natural sweetness of the tomatoes balances perfectly with the savory chicken, creating a harmonious blend that’s both satisfying and unforgettable.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Comfort: Serve it over a bed of creamy polenta or mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious tomato sauce. A side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus would complete the meal perfectly.
* Mediterranean Twist: Toss the cooked chicken and tomatoes with some cooked pasta, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
* Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture for a little heat. You could also incorporate a chopped jalapeño for a more intense spicy flavor.
* Herbaceous Delight: Experiment with different herbs! Fresh basil, oregano, or thyme would all complement the flavors beautifully. Sprinkle them generously over the chicken and tomatoes before roasting.
* Chicken Thighs or Breasts?: While I personally love using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness, you can absolutely use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from drying out.
* Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or halloumi cheese. Both hold up well to roasting and absorb the flavors of the tomatoes beautifully.
* Make it a One-Pan Wonder: Add some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini to the roasting pan along with the tomatoes and chicken for a complete one-pan meal.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I know you’ll love the vibrant flavors and the ease of preparation. It’s a dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own! Cooking should be fun and creative, so feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste.

Now, it’s your turn! Head to your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create some magic. Once you’ve tried this Fire Roasted Tomato Chicken, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your photos and comments on social media using [Your Hashtag] or leave a review below. Let me know what variations you tried and how you made it your own. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking!