Description
Tender Tomato & Corn Chicken
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1/4 cup onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Season the chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Sear the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes, corn, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Combine and cook: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the tomato and corn mixture over it. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with a side of steamed corn on the cob or rice.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 290 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect results every time. First, pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the olive oil onto the chicken, then coat evenly with the spice mixture. When searing in the hot skillet, do not move the chicken for the first 3-4 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust. After removing the chicken, add a splash of water or broth to the skillet to deglaze, scraping up the flavorful browned bits before adding the onions and garlic. This builds a deeper flavor base for your sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with various sides. For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or alongside a crisp green salad. To make it heartier, spoon it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy quinoa, or buttered egg noodles. A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, add a simple steamed vegetable like green beans or asparagus.
How-to Summary
Season and sear chicken breasts until golden. Remove from pan. Sauté onion and garlic, then add tomatoes, corn, and seasoning to create a sauce. Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked through. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent substitute. They may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
After simmering the tomato and corn mixture, create a slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Stir this into the sauce and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until thickened.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes. Cool the cooked dish completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I make this dish in advance?
You can prepare the entire dish a day ahead. The flavors often deepen overnight. Reheat covered on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
What can I use instead of Italian seasoning?
A mix of dried oregano, basil, and a pinch of thyme works well. Alternatively, use herbes de Provence or simply 1/4 teaspoon each of dried basil and oregano.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Sear chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding steams the chicken instead of creating a flavorful sear.
- Using Undrained Tomatoes: Ensure your diced tomatoes are well-drained to prevent a watery sauce.
- Cutting the Chicken Too Soon: Always let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it tender.
- High Heat for Simmering: After adding the sauce back, keep the heat at a gentle simmer. Boiling can make the chicken tough and rubbery.
Conclusion
This Tender Tomato & Corn Chicken is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying meal. It’s a reliable, one-pan recipe that delivers on flavor, nutrition, and ease, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights. With the provided tips and variations, you can easily adapt it to your taste and pantry. Give it a try for a delicious dinner that’s sure to become a regular in your rotation.