Chicken Italiano I

Chicken Italiano I Recipe - Made with Fresh Tomatoes, Basil, Tarragon and More

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Italiano is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for entertaining guests.

History

Chicken Italiano is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a simple and comforting recipe that highlights the flavors of tomatoes, herbs, and cheese.

Ingredients

14 oz (397 g) canned tomatoes
0.5 tsp dried basil
0.5 tsp tarragon
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp freshly ground pepper
2 tsp butter, oil or margarine
1 finely chopped garlic clove
2 lb (907 g) skinned chicken pieces
2 tbsp chopped parsley or 2 tsp dry
0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
parmesan cheese, to taste

How to prepare

Pour tomatoes into the container of a blender or food processor.
Add basil, tarragon, salt, and pepper.
Puree until smooth.
Melt margarine in a large frypan.
Saute garlic over medium heat for 1 minute (or mix in 0.5 tsp garlic powder with other spices).
Add chicken pieces and sauté, turning once or twice until golden on both sides.
Cover with tomato mixture.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes until tender.
Remove chicken and place it in a warm oven-proof dish.
Stir parsley into the sauce and spoon it over the chicken.
Sprinkle with mozzarella.
Place under the heated broiler for 1 minute just until the cheese melts or place on a microwave-safe dish and melt the cheese in the microwave or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

Variations

Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor.
Use different herbs such as oregano or thyme for a unique twist.
Substitute chicken with turkey or pork for a different protein option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use skinned chicken pieces for a lighter and healthier dish.

- Be sure to sauté the garlic just until fragrant to avoid burning.

- For a crispy cheese topping, broil the dish for a minute until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Italiano with a side of pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Puree the tomatoes for a smooth and rich sauce.

- Sauté the chicken until golden brown for a crispy texture.

- Melt the cheese under the broiler for a gooey and delicious topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a fresher taste.

- Substitute butter for margarine for a richer flavor.

- Use different types of cheese such as cheddar or provolone for a different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the tomato sauce and marinate the chicken ahead of time for a quick and easy dinner.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken Italiano on a platter garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Italiano with a glass of red wine such as Chianti or Sangiovese for a perfect Italian meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 350 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 15 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 35 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Italiano is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and garlic.

Summary

Chicken Italiano is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chicken Italiano is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. With a rich tomato sauce, tender chicken, and melted cheese, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a treasured one. I remember it like it was yesterday, even though it was many years ago. It was during one of my regular visits to the local farmer's market, where I would always pick up fresh ingredients for my beloved recipes. On this particular day, I stumbled upon a little old Italian lady selling homemade pasta and sauces.

She had a twinkle in her eye as she told me about her family recipe for Chicken Italiano. She explained that it was a traditional dish that had been passed down through generations and was a favorite in her household. Intrigued, I begged her to share the recipe with me.

With a smile, she agreed to teach me how to make Chicken Italiano. We spent the afternoon in her cozy kitchen, chopping vegetables, marinating the chicken, and simmering the sauce. The aroma that filled the air was simply divine, and I knew right then and there that this dish would become a cherished part of my own recipe collection.

As I took my first bite of the Chicken Italiano, I was transported to a quaint little village in Italy. The flavors were rich and hearty, with a perfect balance of herbs and spices. It was a dish that warmed the soul and left me longing for more.

From that day on, Chicken Italiano became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on a quiet night at home. Each time I cooked it, I would think back to that special day at the farmer's market and the kind Italian lady who had shared her recipe with me.

Over the years, I have added my own personal touch to the recipe, making it my own. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its delicious flavors. It has become a dish that is synonymous with love and comfort in my household, and I am grateful to that kind old Italian lady for introducing me to it.

As I sit here now, surrounded by my collection of recipes and memories, I can't help but smile at the thought of Chicken Italiano. It is a dish that has brought me so much joy and has become a symbol of the passion I have for cooking. I will always hold dear the memory of discovering this recipe for the first time, and I will continue to make it with love and care for many years to come. Grazie, dear Italian lady, for sharing your family recipe with me. It has truly been a gift that keeps on giving.