Braised chicken in tomato sauce is a classic of French cuisine, a dish that evokes comfort and togetherness. Cooked slowly, this dish allows the flavors to blend harmoniously, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to delight the taste buds of all your guests.
This dish is not only delicious but also simple to make. Just a few quality ingredients and a little patience are needed to achieve tender chicken, bathing in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce. Follow these steps and get ready to receive plenty of compliments!
Ingredients
For 4 people:
- 1.5 kg of chicken (thighs and drumsticks)
- 1 can of 400 g peeled tomatoes
- 2 onions, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (to balance the acidity)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (thermostat 6).
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown on all sides for about 10 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside on a plate.
- In the same pot, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they are translucent.
- Stir in the peeled tomatoes (with their juice) and add the bouquet garni. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then add the sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Return the chicken to the pot, mix well to coat the chicken pieces with the sauce.
- Cover the pot and place in the oven for about 1 to 1.5 hours, until the chicken is well cooked and tender.
- Serve hot, accompanied by rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Chef's Tips
For an even more flavorful sauce, let the chicken simmer over low heat on the stovetop for 1 to 2 hours if you prefer not to use the oven. You can also add black olives or capers for a Mediterranean touch.
Storage
Braised chicken in tomato sauce keeps very well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 3 days. You can also freeze it for later use.
