My kids love chicken, but they do not always love sauces, and anything too spicy or too strong usually causes complaints at the table. What I like about this Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce recipe is that the tomato sauce is gentle, smooth, and familiar, so it never feels overwhelming. Over time, this dish became one of those meals they recognize and feel comfortable with, which makes cooking it feel rewarding.

In our home, this recipe slowly became part of our routine. I know exactly how it will turn out, and that confidence makes cooking feel calm instead of stressful. It is the kind of recipe I come back to when I want everyone to eat happily without making separate meals.

I have cooked chicken breast many different ways over the years, but this method is the one I trust the most. I use good olive oil, simple canned tomatoes, and fresh garlic whenever I can find it. I always take time to brown the chicken first because that step adds flavor that cannot be added later.

I also always let the chicken finish cooking slowly in the tomato sauce. I never rush this part because gentle heat keeps the chicken tender and juicy. This recipe does not need complicated steps, just patience and attention, and that is why it works so well every time.

You can serve Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce in many easy and comforting ways. I often serve it with creamy mashed potatoes because the tomato sauce blends beautifully with them. Some days, I choose plain rice so the sauce can soak in and flavor every bite.

It’s Perfect For:

• Busy weeknight dinners when time is short
• Family meals with simple flavors
• Meal prep for the week
• Comfort food without heavy ingredients
• Casual home gatherings

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Lid for the pan

How to Make Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce

Step 1

Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. This step is important because it builds flavor directly into the meat before cooking. If the chicken breasts are very thick, lightly pound them to an even thickness so they cook evenly and stay juicy.

Step 2

Sear the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the chicken breasts in a single layer. Sear for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown. The goal here is to develop color, not to cook them all the way through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3

Build the tomato sauce base: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Cook over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes slightly translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4

Make the tomato sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste until well combined. Add oregano, basil, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If the sauce tastes too acidic, add the sugar to balance the flavors. Pour in the chicken broth or water and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 5

Simmer the chicken in the sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top of each piece. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 6

Finish and serve: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving for a fresh, bright finish.

Tips for the Best Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce

• Pound the chicken evenly
  Even thickness helps the chicken cook properly.
  It prevents dry edges and raw centers.
  This step keeps the meat juicy.
• Always sear before simmering
  Searing adds deep flavor to the chicken.
  It also helps lock in moisture.
  This step makes a big difference.
• Use gentle heat for the sauce
  Tomato sauce prefers slow cooking.
  High heat can make it sharp.
  Low heat keeps it smooth.
• Season in layers
  Season the chicken and the sauce separately.
  This builds flavor slowly.
  The final taste feels balanced.
• Let the sauce rest
  Resting helps flavors settle.
  The sauce thickens naturally.
  It tastes richer after resting.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan
  Too much chicken causes steaming.
  Browning becomes difficult.
  Cook in batches if needed.
• Taste before serving
  Tomatoes vary in acidity.
  Adjust salt or sweetness gently.
  Your taste matters most.

Optional Ingredients

• Red pepper flakes for mild heat
• Fresh basil for freshness
• Parmesan cheese for richness
• Mushrooms for texture
• Olives for a savory note
• A splash of cream for softness

How to Serve Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce

I usually serve Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce straight from the pan because it keeps the chicken warm and juicy, and I love spooning plenty of tomato sauce over the top so every bite feels rich and comforting. I often add a small sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end because it makes the dish feel fresh and complete without extra effort.

I like pairing this dish with something that absorbs sauce well, such as pasta, fluffy rice, or creamy mashed potatoes, because the tomato sauce is too good to leave behind. I sometimes serve crusty bread on the side, especially when I want a simple plate that still feels filling and satisfying.

I always let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving because the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors come together more smoothly. I find that serving it warm rather than very hot keeps the chicken tender and makes the whole meal feel relaxed and homemade.

Is Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce Healthy?

Chicken breast is lean and high in protein, which makes it a good choice for a balanced meal without too much fat. Cooking it gently in tomato sauce keeps it moist without frying or heavy ingredients.

The tomato sauce adds vitamins and antioxidants, especially when made with simple tomatoes and olive oil. When served with vegetables or whole grains, this dish fits well into a healthy lifestyle.

Variations and Substitutions

• Creamy Tomato Chicken
  Add a little cream at the end.
  It softens the tomato acidity.
  The sauce becomes silky.
  Perfect for cozy dinners.
• Spicy Tomato Chicken
  Add chili flakes or hot paprika.
  Keep the heat gentle.
  The flavor stays balanced.
  Great for spice lovers.
• Italian Herb Version
  Use oregano, basil, and thyme.
  The aroma becomes richer.
  It feels more traditional.
  Perfect with pasta.
• Garlic-Forward Version
  Add extra garlic to the sauce.
  Cook it slowly until sweet.
  The flavor deepens nicely.
  Garlic lovers enjoy this.
• Vegetable-Loaded Version
  Add zucchini or bell peppers.
  They soften into the sauce.
  The dish becomes heartier.
  Great for families.
• Cheesy Baked Version
  Add mozzarella on top.
  Bake until melted.
  The texture becomes comforting.
  Kids usually love it.
• Low-Sodium Version
  Use no-salt tomatoes.
  Season carefully at the end.
  You control the salt level.
  Perfect for lighter diets.
• Very Simple Version
  Skip herbs completely.
  Let tomato and garlic shine.
  The taste stays mild.
  Good for picky eaters.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making sure the chicken is fully cooled before sealing to protect its texture.

Reheat slowly on the stove with a splash of water or broth, stirring gently, because high heat or fast reheating can dry out the chicken and break the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs work very well in this recipe because they stay juicy longer and absorb the tomato sauce beautifully during cooking.

Can I make Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is ideal for making ahead because the flavors deepen as it rests and taste even better the next day.

Why does my tomato sauce sometimes taste too acidic?
Tomatoes naturally vary in acidity, so adding a small pinch of sugar or simmering the sauce longer usually balances the flavor.

Is it okay to cook the chicken directly in the sauce without searing first?
It is possible, but searing the chicken first adds more flavor and helps keep the meat tender and juicy.

Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce Recipe

Recipe by Maria MeyerCourse: Main CourseCuisine: American, Italian-InspiredDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Juicy chicken breast simmered in a rich, homemade tomato sauce for an easy and comforting family dinner that’s simple to make, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

• Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. This step is important because it builds flavor directly into the meat before cooking. If the chicken breasts are very thick, lightly pound them to an even thickness so they cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Sear the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the chicken breasts in a single layer. Sear for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown. The goal here is to develop color, not to cook them all the way through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
• Build the tomato sauce base: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Cook over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes slightly translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
• Make the tomato sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste until well combined. Add oregano, basil, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If the sauce tastes too acidic, add the sugar to balance the flavors. Pour in the chicken broth or water and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
• Simmer the chicken in the sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top of each piece. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Finish and serve: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving for a fresh, bright finish.