Baked Chicken with Bacon Tomato Sauce

Baked Chicken with Bacon Tomato Sauce Recipe | Delicious & Easy

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

The Baked Chicken with Bacon Tomato Sauce recipe is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the savory flavors of bacon and chicken with the tangy sweetness of fire-roasted tomatoes. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. The combination of ingredients and the method of preparation ensure a meal that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. This recipe is a testament to the versatility of chicken and how it can be transformed into a gourmet dish with a few simple ingredients.

History

The origins of combining chicken with tomatoes and bacon can be traced back to various cuisines around the world, each adding its unique twist to the dish. The concept of baking chicken pieces with a tomato-based sauce is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, where tomatoes are a fundamental ingredient. The addition of bacon introduces a smoky flavor that has its roots in American culinary practices. Over time, this recipe has evolved, incorporating elements from different cultures, leading to the rich and flavorful dish we enjoy today.

Ingredients

2 cups of fire roasted diced tomatoes
6 slices of bacon, cut into 1 inch pieces
4 lb (1.81 kg) of bone-in chicken pieces
0.75 tsp of salt, divided
0.25 tsp of freshly ground black pepper
1 onion, cut into 0.33 inch slices

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
Spread the tomatoes on the bottom of a rectangular baking dish.
Cook the bacon in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat for 8 minutes, turning once.
Transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain, and reserve the skillet and drippings.
Season the chicken pieces with 0.5 tsp of salt and pepper.
Cook the chicken in another large skillet over high heat for 5 minutes, turning as needed to brown evenly.
Arrange the chicken over the tomatoes.
Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
Meanwhile, cook the onion slices in the reserved bacon drippings for 8 minutes.
Transfer the onions to a brown paper bag using a slotted spoon.
Add the remaining salt to the bag, then shake to degrease the onions and mix with salt.
Transfer the chicken and tomatoes to a serving plate, then sprinkle with bacon and onions.

Variations

For a spicier version, add chili flakes to the tomato sauce. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or pork for a different flavor profile. Adding a splash of white wine to the tomato sauce can introduce an additional layer of complexity to the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked and flavorful, it's essential to brown the chicken pieces before baking. This step seals in the juices and provides a nice texture. Using fire-roasted diced tomatoes can add an extra layer of flavor compared to regular diced tomatoes. For a crispier bacon topping, consider broiling the dish for the last few minutes of cooking. Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to add freshness and balance to the meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside mashed potatoes or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the chicken and bacon before baking is crucial for developing depth of flavor. Cooking the onions in bacon drippings infuses them with a smoky taste, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fire-roasted diced tomatoes are not available, regular diced tomatoes can be used, with a pinch of smoked paprika added to mimic the smoky flavor. Turkey bacon can be substituted for regular bacon for a lighter option.

Make Ahead Tips

The chicken and bacon can be browned ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. The assembled dish can also be refrigerated and baked just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the dish in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the layers of chicken, tomatoes, and bacon. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

A medium-bodied red wine, such as a Merlot or a Chianti, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon to cleanse the palate.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed. Add a little water or chicken broth when reheating to prevent the dish from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of this dish contains approximately 400 calories. The majority of these calories come from the proteins and fats in the chicken and bacon.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source being the fire-roasted diced tomatoes. A serving of this dish contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates. The onions also contribute a minimal amount of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the bacon and the chicken skin. A serving of this dish contains about 20 grams of fat, depending on the cut of chicken used and the amount of bacon added. Using leaner cuts of chicken and trimming excess fat can reduce the fat content.

Proteins

This dish is an excellent source of protein, with each serving providing approximately 35 grams of protein. The chicken pieces are the primary source of protein, making this dish a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

The Baked Chicken with Bacon Tomato Sauce is rich in vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C from the tomatoes, Vitamin B6, and niacin from the chicken. It also contains minerals such as iron and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, those with specific food sensitivities should check the ingredients list carefully, especially the bacon, for any added ingredients that might be allergenic.

Summary

Overall, the Baked Chicken with Bacon Tomato Sauce is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of proteins, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a suitable option for those following a balanced diet.

Summary

The Baked Chicken with Bacon Tomato Sauce is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the best of several culinary traditions. With its rich flavors, nutritional benefits, and versatility, it's sure to become a favorite in any household. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy the timeless combination of chicken, bacon, and tomatoes.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly through the kitchen window as I sorted through a stack of old recipe cards that had been passed down to me from my mother. As I flipped through the cards, my eyes landed on a faded, yellowed piece of paper with the words "Baked Chicken with Bacon Tomato Sauce" scrawled across the top in my grandmother's elegant handwriting.

I smiled as memories flooded back to me of my grandmother standing in her own kitchen, her apron tied securely around her waist as she moved about with ease, effortlessly creating delicious meals for her family. She was a master in the kitchen, and I had always admired her culinary skills.

I remembered the first time she had made this dish for us. The aroma of sizzling bacon and garlic filled the air as the chicken roasted in the oven, the tomatoes bubbling away in their savory sauce. The flavors were rich and comforting, a perfect blend of tangy tomatoes, salty bacon, and tender chicken.

I had always wanted to learn how to make this dish myself, but my grandmother had passed away before I could ask her for the recipe. Finding it now felt like a gift from above, a way to connect with her once more through the food we had shared together.

Excited to try my hand at recreating this beloved dish, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. I could almost hear my grandmother's voice guiding me through the steps as I chopped the bacon, minced the garlic, and browned the chicken in a hot skillet.

As the chicken roasted in the oven, I prepared the tomato sauce, simmering the tomatoes, onions, and herbs until they melded together in a fragrant, rich sauce. The scent wafted through the kitchen, filling me with a sense of nostalgia and comfort.

Finally, the dish was ready. I plated the chicken, spooning the bacon tomato sauce over the top and garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. I took a bite, savoring the familiar flavors that brought me back to my grandmother's kitchen.

As I sat down to enjoy my meal, I felt a sense of peace and contentment wash over me. In that moment, I knew that my grandmother's legacy lived on in her recipes, passed down through generations to be enjoyed and shared with loved ones.

And so, every time I make Baked Chicken with Bacon Tomato Sauce, I am reminded of the bond that food creates between us, connecting us to our past and to the ones we hold dear. It is a dish that will always hold a special place in my heart, a tribute to the woman who taught me the true joy of cooking and sharing good food with others.