Why the Chicken With Tomato Sauce Is Great For Burning Fat
When it comes to meals that support weight loss, Chicken with Tomato Sauce stands out as a fantastic option.
This dish combines lean protein from the chicken with the nutritional benefits of tomatoes, which are low in calories and high in vitamins. The spices, like cumin and cayenne, can boost metabolism, helping my body burn more calories.
Plus, the healthy fats from the oil are essential for overall health. When I enjoy this dish, I feel satisfied without the guilt, making it easier to stick to my weight loss goals.
It’s a delicious and effective way to enjoy a healthy meal!
Ingredients of Chicken With Tomato Sauce
When it comes to cooking up the perfect meal, having the right ingredients is half the battle. For this Cilantro-Infused Chicken with Tomato Sauce, you’ll need a mix of fresh flavors and comforting staples that everyone can appreciate. Trust me, once you gather these goodies, you’ll feel like a culinary superstar, ready to impress yourself (and maybe even a few friends). So, roll up your sleeves and let’s plunge into what you’ll need.
Here’s a quick list of the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious dish:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (plus more for brushing the chicken)
- 1/2 onion, minced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 lbs tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and chopped
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons tomato paste (optional, but it adds a nice pop of color)
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, trimmed
- 2 1/2 teaspoons fresh cilantro, minced
- Fresh cilantro stems for garnish
Now, let’s chat a little about these ingredients. First off, don’t skimp on the fresh cilantro—its flavor really makes this dish sing!
And if you can, use fresh tomatoes instead of canned; they bring a brightness that’ll take your sauce from good to wow. But hey, if you’re in a pinch and those canned tomatoes are calling your name, go ahead and use them. Just give them a taste first—some can be a bit too tangy, and you might need to adjust your seasonings.
Also, feel free to tweak the spices based on your taste buds. Love heat? Add more cayenne! Not a fan of turmeric? Leave it out. Cooking is all about making it your own, so don’t hesitate to experiment.
Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Chicken With Tomato Sauce
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this Cilantro-Infused Chicken with Tomato Sauce. First things first, you’ll want to whip up that delicious tomato sauce. Grab your 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and heat it in a saucepan over low heat. Toss in 1/2 of a minced onion and let it sizzle away for about 10 minutes until it softens up. You might want to stir it occasionally; it’s not a set-it-and-forget-it kind of deal.
Once your onion is ready, throw in 2 minced garlic cloves and keep stirring for another 30 seconds. The aroma? Absolutely divine. Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of ground cumin and 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric—these spices are going to add some serious depth to your sauce. Stir that in for another 30 seconds and then it’s time for the star of the show: 2 pounds of peeled, seeded, and chopped tomatoes.
Add those beauties into the mix along with a pinch of cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to taste. You’ll want to bring this mixture to a boil first, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until the tomatoes break down and everything melds into a glorious sauce. If you’re feeling fancy, stir in 2 teaspoons of tomato paste for an extra pop of color right at the end.
While that sauce is working its magic, let’s prep the chicken. Take your 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts and, with a meat pounder or a rolling pin (yes, a rolling pin—who knew it could be so versatile?), pound them between some waxed paper until they’re about 1/4 inch thick. It’s oddly satisfying, right? You can do this up to 4 hours ahead of time; just be sure to wrap them tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.
Now, preheat your oven to 275 degrees F and reheat your sauce on low heat, stirring in 2 1/2 teaspoons of minced cilantro for that fresh kick. Pat the chicken dry, sprinkle it with salt and pepper, and brush a little oil on it. Heat a skillet over high heat and sear the chicken for 1-2 minutes per side until it’s firm to the touch. Don’t worry about cooking it all the way through right now; it’s going to finish in the oven.
Once done, transfer the chicken to an oven-proof platter, cover it with foil, and keep it warm in the oven while you clean up the skillet.
Finally, it’s time to plate up. Spoon that luscious tomato sauce onto plates, top it with the chicken, and if you’re feeling a little extra, garnish with some cilantro stems. Just imagine it: a beautiful dish that looks as good as it tastes.
And there you have it, a delightful Cilantro-Infused Chicken with Tomato Sauce that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the process, and remember, cooking is all about having fun—even if you accidentally drop a piece of chicken on the floor (don’t worry, we’ll just call that a “chef’s treat”).
Chicken With Tomato Sauce Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
Now that you’ve got a solid handle on making that delicious Cilantro-Infused Chicken with Tomato Sauce, let’s explore some substitutions and variations to make this dish suitable for low carb diets.
Instead of traditional tomato sauce, try using crushed tomatoes or a low-sugar marinara for fewer carbs. You can also swap out the onion for sautéed bell peppers or zucchini for added texture.
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.
Finally, serve it over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a satisfying, low-carb meal that still packs a flavorful punch!
What to Serve with Chicken With Tomato Sauce
To elevate your meal, consider pairing Chicken with Tomato Sauce with a variety of delicious sides that complement its flavors.
I love serving it with fluffy rice or creamy polenta, as they soak up the rich sauce beautifully. A side of sautéed green beans or garlic-infused spinach adds a burst of freshness and color.
For something hearty, roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs work wonderfully too. Don’t forget a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the meal.
Each of these options brings out the best in the chicken and makes for a satisfying dining experience. Enjoy!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
While enjoying Chicken with Tomato Sauce alongside those delicious sides, you might be looking for ways to make the dish a bit lighter.
I’ve found that using less oil when cooking can save calories without sacrificing flavor. Opt for skinless chicken breasts, as they’re leaner. You could also swap out regular tomato paste for a reduced-sugar version to cut down on carbs.
Adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini not only boosts nutrition but helps fill you up. Finally, controlling portion sizes can make a big difference.
With these tips, you can enjoy a lighter, yet satisfying meal!