Italian Chicken in Tomato Sauce with Spinach and Basil

Nothing quite compares to the rich, comforting flavors of a classic Italian dish made with juicy chicken, vibrant tomatoes, and fresh herbs. This Italian Chicken in Tomato Sauce with Spinach and Basil recipe delivers all the classic Italian taste you crave, with the added bonus of nutrient-dense spinach for a healthy boost.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓

This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, blending the heartiness of chicken and the bold, aromatic flavors of tomato sauce, garlic, and Italian herbs. The addition of fresh spinach and basil not only enhances the nutritional profile but also adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness that balances the dish beautifully. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this Italian Chicken in Tomato Sauce is sure to be a hit.

What sets this recipe apart is its versatility – it can be easily adapted to suit various dietary needs or personal preferences, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, the make-ahead and freezing options mean you can enjoy this delicious meal on your schedule, without sacrificing time or flavor.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

The beauty of this Italian Chicken in Tomato Sauce with Spinach and Basil is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and aromatic herbs creates the classic Italian-inspired flavor profile that has made this type of recipe perennially popular.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
2. Step 2: Reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion to the same pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Step 4: Add the cooked chicken back to the pan and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
5. Step 5: Stir in the chopped spinach and fresh basil leaves. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted.

Timing Overview

Compared to traditional Italian chicken dishes that can take up to an hour to prepare, this Italian Chicken in Tomato Sauce with Spinach and Basil saves you 25% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

These Italian Chicken in Tomato Sauce with Spinach and Basil provide approximately 65% of your daily protein requirements and 16% of your daily fiber needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.

🧘‍♀️ Guilt-Free Versions

These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Italian Chicken in Tomato Sauce with Spinach and Basil.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

⚠️ Cooking Pitfalls to Skip

🔒 Storage & Leftovers

These Italian Chicken in Tomato Sauce with Spinach and Basil retain their quality remarkably well:

❓ FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this Italian Chicken in Tomato Sauce with Spinach and Basil is a great make-ahead option. You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the spinach and basil, then refrigerate or freeze for later use. When ready to serve, simply reheat and stir in the fresh greens.

Can I substitute the chicken with a different protein?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with ground Italian sausage, beef, or even plant-based protein alternatives like crumbled tofu or soy-based “meat” crumbles. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the new protein is cooked through.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

For a lower-calorie or lower-carb version, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts, omit the onion, and serve the chicken and sauce over spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. You can also add extra vegetables, like sliced mushrooms or bell peppers, to the sauce.

What should I do if the sauce is too thin?

If the tomato sauce seems too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it for a few more minutes to allow the liquid to reduce. Alternatively, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch or arrowroot powder with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce to help it thicken up.

Can I add other herbs or spices to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional Italian herbs like thyme, rosemary, or fennel seeds. You can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat, or sprinkle in some grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.

🏁 Conclusion

These Italian Chicken in Tomato Sauce with Spinach and Basil represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a cozy family dinner or a sophisticated meal for guests, they’re sure to impress with their vibrant colors, tender chicken, and bold Italian-inspired taste.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe demonstrates that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the cooking process. So why wait? Dive into this delicious, wholesome dish and enjoy a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen!

Italian Chicken in Tomato Sauce with Spinach and Basil

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.3/5

⏱️ Timing Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

🥘 Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

📝 Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
2. Reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion to the same pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the cooked chicken back to the pan and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
5. Stir in the chopped spinach and fresh basil leaves. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted.

📊 Nutritional Information

Calories: 287

Protein: 33g

Carbohydrates: 15g

Fat: 9g

Fiber: 4g

Sodium: 618mg

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