### **Tomato Baked Chicken: A Juicy, Flavor-Packed Dish**
#### **Introduction**
**Tomato Baked Chicken** is a simple yet vibrant dish where tender chicken is smothered in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce and baked to perfection. It’s a **one-pan wonder**—naturally juicy, packed with Mediterranean flavors, and perfect with crusty bread, pasta, or roasted veggies.
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### **Origin & Cultural Significance**
– **Mediterranean roots**: Similar to Italian *Pollo al Pomodoro* or Greek *Kotopoulo me Domata*, where tomatoes, herbs, and olive oil are staples.
– **Global comfort food**: Baked tomato chicken appears in many cuisines, from Spanish *Pollo con Tomate* to Moroccan *Chicken Tagine*.
– **Why it’s loved**: Requires minimal effort, uses pantry staples, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor.
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### **Ingredients & Quantity**
*(Serves 4)*
#### **Main Components**
– **4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs** (or breasts)
– **2 cups** cherry tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
– **1 onion**, thinly sliced
– **4 garlic cloves**, minced
– **¼ cup** olive oil
– **1 tsp** dried oregano (or Italian herbs)
– **1 tsp** paprika (or smoked for depth)
– **Salt & pepper** to taste
– **Fresh basil or parsley** (garnish)
#### **Optional Additions**
– **½ cup** Kalamata olives or capers for briny contrast
– **1 tbsp** balsamic vinegar for tangy sweetness
– **Red pepper flakes** for heat
– **1 cup** spinach or zucchini (adds veggie boost)
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### **Tips for Success**
✔ **Use bone-in, skin-on chicken** for maximum juiciness.
✔ **Sear first** (optional but recommended for crispy skin).
✔ **Don’t overcrowd the pan**—space ensures even cooking.
✔ **Adjust acidity**: If using canned tomatoes, add a pinch of sugar.
✔ **Rest before serving**—lets juices redistribute.
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### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
1. **Prep**: Preheat oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Pat chicken dry; season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. **Sear (optional)**: In an oven-safe skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Sear chicken skin-side down for 3-4 mins until golden. Remove and set aside.
3. **Sauté aromatics**: In the same pan, cook onions until soft (~3 mins). Add garlic and oregano; stir 30 secs.
4. **Add tomatoes**: Toss in cherry tomatoes (halved) or crushed tomatoes. Simmer 2 mins.
5. **Bake**: Nestle chicken into the sauce (skin up). Bake **25-30 mins** (until chicken hits 165°F/74°C internally).
6. **Garnish**: Sprinkle fresh basil/parsley. Drizzle with extra olive oil if desired.
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### **Description**
This dish is **bright, savory, and aromatic**—the tomatoes break down into a luscious sauce while the chicken stays **unbelievably moist**. The garlic and herbs infuse every bite, and the optional olives or balsamic add layers of flavor.
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### **Nutritional Information (Per Serving)**
– **Calories**: ~350
– **Protein**: 28g
– **Carbs**: 10g
– **Fat**: 22g (healthy fats from olive oil)
– **Fiber**: 2g
*(Varies based on additions.)*
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### **Conclusion**
**Tomato Baked Chicken** is a **versatile, foolproof dish** that feels gourmet but requires little effort. It’s weeknight-friendly yet impressive enough for guests.
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### **Serving Recommendations**
– **With carbs**: Crusty bread, polenta, or pasta.
– **With veggies**: Roasted asparagus, mashed cauliflower, or a crisp salad.
– **Leftovers**: Shred into soups or tacos!
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### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
For a lighter twist:
– Use **skinless chicken** (reduce fat).
– Swap **1/2 oil with broth** (lower calories).
– Add **extra veggies** (bell peppers,