Dinner Recipes

February 4, 2026

Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce: 7 Heartwarming Steps

Name: Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce: 7 Heartwarming Steps
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 500g chicken tenderloins; 400g canned tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

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Difficulty Easy

Recipe by

Mia

35 Views • 10 min read

Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce: 7 Heartwarming Steps

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute love for Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce! This dish is not just easy to whip up, but it’s also bursting with flavor and comfort. I can still remember the first time I made it for my family; the aroma of tomatoes and garlic filled the kitchen, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together around the table, sharing stories and laughter over a delicious dish. Seriously, you don’t need to be a culinary genius to make this—just a little bit of love and a few simple ingredients, and you’re on your way to a family favorite that even the busiest home cooks can appreciate. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce on repeat!

Ingredients List

Alright, let’s gather everything you need to make this delicious Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce! Here’s the list, and I promise you, it’s super straightforward. You might already have some of these in your pantry, which makes it even easier!

500g chicken tenderloins
400g canned tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Make sure your chicken tenderloins are fresh, and the canned tomatoes should be of good quality to really bring out that rich flavor. And don’t skimp on the garlic—trust me, it makes all the difference! Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce

Now, let’s get into the fun part—making this Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce! Trust me, it’s as easy as it sounds, and I’m here to guide you through each step. Just follow along, and soon you’ll be savoring this delightful dish!

Step 1: Heat the Oil

First things first, grab your favorite pan and heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want that oil to shimmer but not smoke—aim for that sweet spot where it’s hot enough to sauté but not so hot that it splatters everywhere. It’s all about getting the right flavor base for your sauce!

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Once your oil is heated, toss in the 1 chopped onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Give them a good stir and let them cook until the onion becomes translucent and soft, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it; you don’t want the garlic to burn because that can turn your lovely dish bitter. Just wait for that delightful aroma to fill your kitchen!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Now it’s time to add the star of the show: the 500g chicken tenderloins! Place them in the pan and cook until they’re nicely browned on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. To check for doneness, you can slice into one of the tenderloins; it should be white and opaque all the way through. If it’s still pink, just give it a bit more time!

Step 4: Add the Tomato Sauce

Once your chicken is perfectly browned, it’s time to pour in the 400g canned tomatoes. Make sure to stir them into the mixture well, breaking them up a bit as you go. This is where the magic happens—those tomatoes will meld beautifully with the chicken and create a rich, flavorful sauce!

Step 5: Season the Dish

Next, it’s time to add some flavor! Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy here! Adjust those spices according to your preference. I love a bit of extra oregano, but you do you!

Step 6: Simmer

Now, reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes. This is crucial! The simmering allows the flavors to deepen and the chicken to cook through completely. You’ll want to see a gentle bubble and that sauce thickening up just a bit—oh, it’s going to smell heavenly!

Step 7: Serve

Finally, it’s time to serve up your Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce! I recommend pairing it with your favorite pasta or fluffy rice. For an extra touch, you can garnish it with some fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Plate it up nicely, and get ready for some happy faces at the dinner table!

Nutritional Information

Alright, before you dig into this delicious Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce, let’s chat about the nutritional side of things. Now, keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this is a general guideline rather than an exact measurement. But here’s what you can typically expect for one serving:

Calories: 350
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 500mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Sugar: 6g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 30g

With those protein-packed chicken tenderloins and rich tomato sauce, this dish not only warms the heart but also fuels your day. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re treating yourself to something wholesome!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick prep time: You can have this delicious Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce ready in just 10 minutes of prep!
Easy cooking method: With simple steps and everyday ingredients, anyone can master this dish!
Rich flavors: The combination of tender chicken and savory tomato sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.
Family-friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this dish, making it perfect for family dinners!
Gluten-free: Enjoy this meal without worrying about gluten, making it a great option for everyone!

Tips for Success

Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s talk about some pro tips to really elevate your Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce! These little tricks will help you put your own spin on this dish and make it even more delightful.

Adjust the Spices: Don’t hesitate to play around with the spices! If you love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some smoked paprika for a lovely depth of flavor.
Add Vegetables: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Toss in some diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or even zucchini while sautéing the onions. They’ll soak up the delicious sauce and make the dish even heartier!
Garnish for Style: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving can bring a pop of color and freshness. And don’t forget a drizzle of good quality olive oil for that extra touch of richness!
Perfect Pairings: While pasta and rice are classic accompaniments, you can also serve this dish over polenta or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option. Get creative with your sides!
Make It Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together! If you’re meal prepping, feel free to make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently.

With these tips, you’ll be mastering your Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce in no time! Enjoy the process and make it your own—happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to store those tasty leftovers of your Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce! I know sometimes the best part of cooking is enjoying the meal again later, so here’s how to keep it fresh.

After you’ve served up your delicious dish, let it cool down a bit before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help prevent any moisture from getting trapped, which can make your chicken a bit soggy. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches or dinners!

When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the stovetop to keep that rich flavor and texture intact. Just pour the Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce into a skillet over low to medium heat and gently warm it up, stirring occasionally. This way, it’ll heat evenly without drying out. If it looks a little thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up!

If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Just pop it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate (to keep moisture in), and heat it for about 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to stir and ensure even heating. Just be careful not to overheat it, or you might end up with some rubbery chicken—nobody wants that!

And there you have it! Proper storage and reheating tips to keep your Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce just as delightful as when you first made it. Enjoy those leftovers!

FAQ Section

Got some questions about making Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce? No worries! I’ve got you covered with answers to some common queries that might pop up while you’re cooking this delicious dish.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just fine. Just make sure to cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may take a little longer to cook through.

What if I don’t have canned tomatoes?
If you’re out of canned tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Just chop them up and use about 4-5 medium tomatoes. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to help create that lovely sauce.

Can I make this dish in advance?
Definitely! This Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge after it cools down and reheat it when you’re ready to dive in!

What vegetables can I add to this dish?
Oh, the options are endless! You can add bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach. Just toss them in when you’re sautéing the onions and garlic to let them soak up all that delicious flavor!

Can I make this a one-pan meal?
Absolutely! Just add your choice of pasta or rice directly into the sauce during the last few minutes of simmering. Add a little extra liquid to ensure everything cooks perfectly together. It’s a great time-saver!

How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking for a kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you’re seasoning the sauce. You can also serve it with a dash of hot sauce on the side!

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should be good for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

There you go! I hope these FAQs help you feel more confident in making your Chicken Tender in Tomato Sauce. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask! Happy cooking!