Sautéed Chicken with Spiced Tomato and Garlic Sauce
Tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, spiced tomato and garlic sauce, perfect for a comforting meal. This mediterranean-inspired chicken ready in about 35 minutes blends diced into 1-inch cubes chicken breast, olive oil, minced garlic cloves into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 500 g, diced into 1-inch cubes chicken breast
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4, minced garlic cloves
- 1 medium, finely chopped onion
- 400 g canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp, chopped fresh cilantro
- 100 ml water
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 finely chopped medium onion; sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant, but not browned.
- Step 2: Add 500 g diced chicken breast to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.
- Step 3: Stir in 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp red chili flakes, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper; cook for 1 minute until spices are aromatic.
- Step 4: Pour in 400 g canned crushed tomatoes and 100 ml water, stir to combine, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with rice or flatbread.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Sautéed Chicken with Spiced Tomato and Garlic Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (10 min prep + 25 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Sautéed Chicken with Spiced Tomato and Garlic Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Sautéed Chicken with Spiced Tomato and Garlic Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Sautéed Chicken with Spiced Tomato and Garlic Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Sautéed Chicken with Spiced Tomato and Garlic Sauce?
Mediterranean chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
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