Chicken Pomodoro

Chicken Pomodoro Recipe from Italy with Vodka and Cream

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Pomodoro is a delicious and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that features tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich and creamy tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for entertaining guests.

History

The origins of Chicken Pomodoro can be traced back to Italy, where tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many traditional dishes. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy sauce, and tender chicken has become a popular choice for those looking for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts
salt, pepper, and flour
2 tbsp vegetable oil
0.5 cup vodka
1 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 cup diced tomatoes (canned tomatoes are acceptable, preferably with roasted garlic included. Drain off excess juice)
0.5 cup heavy cream or half and half
1 bunch minced scallions

How to prepare

Remove the chicken breasts from the package and wash. Set aside.
In a large storage bag, combine half a cup of flour, half a teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of pepper (or to taste).
Shake the mixture until well combined.
Add the chicken breasts to the bag one at a time.
Shake the bag to coat the chicken breasts with flour.
Set aside each coated chicken breast and discard any leftover flour mixture.
Depending on the size of the chicken breasts, you may need to use more flour.
Heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat and add the chicken breasts, placing the breast-side down first.
Sauté until the chicken is golden brown on that side, which should take a few minutes.
Flip the chicken breasts and lightly brown the other side.
Remove the chicken from the sauté pan and transfer it to an ovenproof dish. Do not wash the sauté pan!
Roast the chicken in the oven at 400°F (204°C) until cooked through, which should take around 20 to 30 minutes.
While the chicken is in the oven, prepare the sauce using the same pan with the drippings.
Turn off the stove burner and deglaze the pan by pouring in the vodka. Be cautious not to do this with the burner on to avoid accidents.
Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add the chicken broth and lemon juice. Simmer the mixture until it reduces by about 25%. Avoid using medium-high heat for this step.
Then, add the tomatoes and heavy cream. Cook over medium-low heat.
Stir the sauce often to thicken it slightly.
Once the sauce is ready, turn off the burner if the chicken is not yet cooked.
You can reheat the sauce in a few minutes when the chicken is finished.
To check if the chicken is cooked, make a small cut to see if the juices run clear and there is no pink color.
Place the chicken on a plate, spoon the sauce on top, and sprinkle with green onion pieces for added color.
If serving with potatoes and vegetables, you can sprinkle the entire plate with onions.

Variations

Add some chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the sauce for extra flavor.
Substitute the chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs for a different texture.
For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to properly coat the chicken breasts with flour before sautéing them. This will help create a crispy and golden brown exterior.

- Deglazing the pan with vodka adds a depth of flavor to the sauce. Be sure to do this step off the heat to avoid any accidents.

- Keep an eye on the sauce as it simmers to prevent it from becoming too thick. Stirring often will help achieve the perfect consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Pomodoro pairs well with a side of pasta, rice, or crusty bread. You can also serve it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the chicken breasts before roasting them helps seal in the juices and create a crispy exterior.

- Deglazing the pan with vodka adds a depth of flavor to the sauce and helps incorporate the drippings from the chicken.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use heavy cream instead of half and half for a richer sauce.

- If you don't have vodka on hand, you can substitute it with white wine or chicken broth.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the sauce before serving with the cooked chicken breasts.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken Pomodoro on a large platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation. You can also garnish with lemon slices or additional green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Chicken Pomodoro pairs well with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber slices.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Chicken Pomodoro in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Pomodoro contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Pomodoro contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Pomodoro contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Pomodoro contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Pomodoro is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (half and half) and gluten (flour). It may also contain alcohol (vodka).

Summary

Chicken Pomodoro is a well-balanced dish that provides a good amount of protein and essential nutrients. However, it is important to be mindful of the fat content and allergens present in the recipe.

Summary

Chicken Pomodoro is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests. With its tender chicken breasts and creamy tomato sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Chicken Pomodoro. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished picking ripe tomatoes from my garden. As I stood in my kitchen, surrounded by the sweet aroma of the tomatoes, I knew I wanted to create something special with them.

I had always loved cooking, ever since I was a little girl watching my own grandmother in the kitchen. She taught me the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients and the love and care that goes into each dish. I had collected many recipes over the years, from family members, friends, and even strangers I had met during my travels.

But there was something about this recipe for Chicken Pomodoro that spoke to me. The combination of juicy tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and tender chicken seemed like the perfect meal to share with my loved ones. So, I rolled up my sleeves, poured myself a glass of wine, and got to work.

I started by sautéing onions and garlic in a generous amount of olive oil. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew I was off to a good start. Next, I added the diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. As the sauce simmered on the stove, I seasoned the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs before searing them in a hot pan.

Once the chicken was cooked through, I nestled it into the tomato sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together. I let the dish simmer for a while longer, until the chicken was tender and the sauce had thickened slightly. Finally, I plated the Chicken Pomodoro on a bed of al dente pasta, garnishing it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

As I took my first bite of the dish, I was transported back to my grandmother's kitchen, where the smells and tastes of her cooking had always brought me comfort. The Chicken Pomodoro was a revelation – the perfect balance of flavors and textures, a dish that was both simple and elegant at the same time.

Since that day, Chicken Pomodoro has become a staple in my kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its charms. And every time I make it, I am reminded of the joy I felt that summer day, when I stumbled upon a recipe that would become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a comforting, delicious meal, look no further than Chicken Pomodoro. It may have been a chance discovery for me, but I have a feeling it will become a beloved favorite for you as well.