Easy Chicken in Tomato Sauce Recipe: A Classic Comfort Dish

Chicken in tomato sauce is a timeless dish that brings together simple ingredients to create something truly memorable. Tender pieces of chicken simmered in a rich, aromatic tomato sauce make for a satisfying meal that works beautifully for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you are an experienced home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe offers an approachable path to a delicious, home-cooked result. The combination of juicy chicken and a well-seasoned tomato base delivers comfort food at its finest, and the steps below will guide you through preparing it with confidence.

Frango ao molho de tomate fácil

Tender chicken pieces coated in a rich homemade tomato sauce served in a pan

This first preparation highlights the beauty of a straightforward tomato sauce paired with chicken. The sauce clings to each piece, creating a glossy, flavorful coating that pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread. The ingredients are pantry-friendly, and the method is designed to keep the chicken moist while building depth in the sauce.

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika on both sides.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on each side, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and sauté the onion until translucent, then add the garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook briefly, then pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, adding the oregano.
Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Adjust seasoning, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.

Frango ao Molho

Chicken simmering in a savory tomato-based sauce presented in a rustic serving dish

This variation offers a slightly heartier approach, with a sauce that develops a deeper character through longer simmering. It is an excellent choice when you want a dish that feels robust and comforting, perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice. The method encourages layering flavors gradually for a well-rounded finish.

Ingredients

1 whole chicken, cut into pieces, or 6 mixed chicken pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, sliced
4 garlic cloves, crushed
3 cups tomato passata or blended canned tomatoes
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes, optional
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup water or stock
Chopped parsley for finishing

Instructions

Pat the chicken pieces dry and season them evenly with salt and black pepper.
Heat the oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat and brown the chicken on all sides, then transfer to a plate.
Lower the heat, add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened and aromatic.
Pour in the tomato passata and water, then stir in the bay leaf, thyme, and chili flakes if using.
Return the chicken to the pan, bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, and cover partially.
Cook for 35 to 40 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally, until tender and the sauce has reduced to a rich consistency.
Remove the bay leaf and scatter chopped parsley over the top before serving.

Both preparations demonstrate how versatile chicken in tomato sauce can be. With minimal effort and accessible ingredients, you can bring a warm, flavorful dish to the table that is sure to satisfy everyone gathered around it.