Oven Roasted Chicken In Tomato Sauce
Juicy oven-roasted chicken breasts coated in a flavorful tomato sauce with hints of lemon and spices, perfect for a hearty yet simple meal. This dish suits family dinners and casual gatherings, offering a tangy, savory taste that pairs well with greens or rice for a complete plate.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking pan.
- Combine tomato puree, ketchup, lemon juice, allspice, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts.
- Bake uncovered at 400°F for about 45 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Before serving, garnish with lemon slices, parsley, or cooked green peas, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce mixture for a few hours before baking. If you don’t have allspice, a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg can work as a substitute. To enhance the dish, try adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or oregano. For a different twist, you can swap the tomato puree for crushed tomatoes or even a jar of marinara sauce from your favorite Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This oven roasted chicken pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad. For a heartier meal, serve it over rice or pasta, such as broccoli pasta, to soak up the delicious tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for added brightness. Consider serving with a slice of crusty bread to enjoy every bit of the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be careful not to dry out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Roasted Chicken In Tomato Sauce contains roughly 333 calories, with 27g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), protein (55% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value). At about 333 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of whole chicken breasts?
Yes, bone-in chicken breasts can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked. Bone-in pieces generally take a little longer to cook, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F in the thickest part.
What can I substitute for tomato puree?
If you don't have tomato puree, you can use crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce as a substitute. For a thicker texture, simmer the crushed tomatoes until they reduce slightly. Alternatively, you can blend canned diced tomatoes until smooth for a homemade version of tomato puree.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven. This can enhance the flavors and make for a convenient meal option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).