Chef John’s Roman-Style Chicken

Name: Chef John's Roman-Style Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Published: August 11, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation makes this dish perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor
Enjoy a beautiful presentation with vibrant colors that impress at any dinner party
The rich flavor profile combines savory and tangy notes that tantalize your taste buds
Versatile enough to pair with pasta or crusty bread, this dish satisfies any craving

I served Chef John’s Roman-Style Chicken during a family reunion last summer, and it was met with cheers and happy bellies all around. For more inspiration, check out this chicken sausages with zucchini recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious cheesy pizza pockets.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts but adjust according to your crowd size.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves; they add incredible depth to the sauce. For more inspiration, check out this garlic parmesan cheeseburger bombs recipe.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality tomatoes for rich flavor; they’re the base of our sauce.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its fruity notes; it enhances the overall flavor beautifully.
Fresh Basil: Chopped basil gives the dish a burst of freshness that brightens every bite.
Red Pepper Flakes: Add these if you like a little heat; they provide a delightful kick!

For the Sauce:

Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth keeps it flavorful without being overly salty; choose homemade if possible.
Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are essential; don’t forget to adjust to taste!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds creaminess and is perfect for finishing off the dish. light and fluffy cream cheese frosting.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grab your favorite baking dish—this is where the magic happens.

Sear the Chicken Breasts: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle olive oil. Add chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Sear until golden brown on both sides—about 5-7 minutes per side—releasing those heavenly aromas.

Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Once chicken is seared, throw in minced garlic and canned diced tomatoes. Stir everything together until garlic becomes fragrant—about 30 seconds—and watch those tomatoes sizzle joyfully.

Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in chicken broth and sprinkle red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy. Let it simmer gently while you admire how beautiful everything looks!

Bake Until Juicy Perfection: Transfer everything into your preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) ensuring perfection every time.

Add Fresh Basil and Cheese: Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the top along with grated Parmesan cheese. It’ll look so good you might want to photograph it before devouring!

Now you’re ready to serve Chef John’s Roman-Style Chicken! Enjoy every flavorful bite while imagining yourself dining al fresco under the Italian sun. Bon appétit!

You Must Know

This recipe for Chef John’s Roman-Style Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience
The aromatic blend of herbs and spices transforms ordinary chicken into a flavorful masterpiece that will impress any dinner guest
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then simmer with tomatoes and herbs for juicy perfection. This method locks in flavors while ensuring even cooking throughout.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the herbs or add olives for a Mediterranean twist. A splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors beautifully!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve moisture and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect chicken, let it rest before slicing to keep juices intact
Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust seasoning if needed
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety and tenderness

It was during one family gathering that I made Chef John’s Roman-Style Chicken for the first time. My uncle, usually picky about food, went back for seconds—twice! That’s when I knew I had a winner.

FAQ

What sides go well with Chef John’s Roman-Style Chicken?

Serving this dish with garlic bread or a fresh salad complements its rich flavors perfectly.

Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts can be used but adjust cooking time accordingly to prevent dryness.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking for an extra kick of heat!

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📖 Recipe Card