Sautéed Chicken with Garlic and Chili in a Spicy Tomato Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender chicken pieces cooked in a vibrant tomato sauce infused with garlic and chili, offering a perfect balance of heat and savory flavors. This mediterranean-inspired chicken ready in about 35 minutes blends cut into 1-inch pieces 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.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 25 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 medium finely chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent and soft.
  2. Step 2: Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tsp red chili flakes to the skillet, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt.
  3. Step 3: Add 500 g chicken breast pieces to the skillet, stirring frequently, and cook for 6-8 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
  4. Step 4: Pour in 400 g canned crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat and sprinkle 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley over the dish before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Sautéed Chicken with Garlic and Chili in a Spicy Tomato 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 Garlic and Chili in a Spicy Tomato 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 Garlic and Chili in a Spicy Tomato 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 Garlic and Chili in a Spicy Tomato 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 Garlic and Chili in a Spicy Tomato 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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