Description
This juicy saucy dinner that cooks itself is a comforting one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with tender chicken, a rich tomato-based sauce, and bold seasonings, it’s easy to prepare and even better the next day. Great for slow cooking or stovetop.
Ingredients
1 ½ lbs boneless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear chicken thighs on both sides until lightly browned. Set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sautée chopped onion and garlic until translucent.
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes until caramelized.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, brown sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
5. Return chicken to the skillet, coating it in sauce.
6. Cover and simmer on low for 30–40 minutes until chicken is tender.
7. Alternatively, transfer to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours.
8. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
This dish is even better the next day.
You can substitute beef chuck roast or pork shoulder.
Pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or garlic rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow cook or stovetop simmer
- Cuisine: American comfort food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 315
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 95mg