Baked Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil
Baked Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines juicy, tender chicken with the bright flavors of ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil. The chicken is seasoned with herbs and spices, then baked with a topping of sliced tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. As it cooks, the tomatoes release their juices, creating a light, savory sauce that infuses the chicken with rich flavor. This dish is ideal for a healthy, weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, and pairs beautifully with a side of rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
INGREDIENTS:
four chicken breasts that are skinless and boneless
2 cups of cherry tomatoes, to be cut in half
freshly cut basil leaves equaling half a cup
3 minced garlic cloves (in total)
Olive oil, one tablespoon equal
half of a teaspoon of oregano, dried
To taste, season with salt and pepper
grated Parmesan cheese, one-fourth of a cup
glazing with balsamic vinegar (optional, for drizzling)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Turn the oven on to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
Prepare the chicken by placing the chicken breasts in a baking dish and seasoning them. Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and oregano, then drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Add Tomatoes and Garlic: Distribute the cherry tomatoes that have been cut in half and the garlic that has been minced all over the chicken and on top of it.
Bake: Put the dish in the oven and bake it for twenty-five to thirty minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked through and the temperature on the inside reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
After removing the casserole from the oven, add the basil and Parmesan cheese. While the chicken and tomatoes are cooking, sprinkle the fresh basil and Parmesan cheese on top of them.
The balsamic glaze is an optional addition that can be drizzled on top of the dish to add an additional layer of sweetness and a deeper flavor.
Serve: Serve the dish warm with the sides of your choosing, such as a straightforward salad or vegetables that have been roasted.
Notes for Baked Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil
1. Chicken Preparation:
Cut: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Ensure even thickness for uniform cooking.
Seasoning: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs like oregano or thyme to complement the tomatoes and basil.
2. Tomatoes:
Type: Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes. Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes are great choices. Cherry or grape tomatoes can also be used for a sweeter flavor.
Slicing: Slice the tomatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly and release their juices.
3. Basil:
Fresh Basil: Use fresh basil for the best flavor. Add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its delicate taste.
Substitute: Dried basil can be used if fresh is not available, but it should be added earlier in the cooking process to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Baking Method:
Temperature: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Covering: You can cover the dish with foil for the first half of baking to keep the chicken moist, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to let the top brown slightly.
5. Sauce:
Tomato Juices: The tomatoes will release their juices as they bake, creating a light sauce. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of baking.
6. Serving Suggestions:
Accompaniments: Serve with a side of steamed rice, pasta, or a green salad. Crusty bread is also great for soaking up the tomato sauce.
Garnishing: Garnish with additional fresh basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
7. Storage:
Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
8. Variations:
Vegetable Add-Ins: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the baking dish for a more complete meal.
Cheese: For a richer dish, top with shredded mozzarella or feta cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.
These notes will help you create a delicious and well-balanced Baked Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil, ensuring it’s flavorful and perfectly cooked.
Take pleasure in this mouthwatering and fragrant dinner!