Tender pieces of chicken are slowly simmered in a rich tomato cream sauce with garlic and spices. A simple technique of toasting the tomato paste and then braising with sparkling water makes the meat especially soft and juicy, while the sauce turns velvety and fragrant. This is a comforting family supper, cooked in one skillet with reliably beautiful results.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs or bone-in chicken pieces — 800-1000 g (1.8-2.2 lb)
- Tomato paste — 1-2 tbsp
- Garlic, pressed — 2-3 cloves
- Salt — 1 tsp
- Paprika — 1 tsp
- Ground black pepper — 1 tsp
- Dried herbs (Italian seasoning, oregano, or herbes de Provence) — 1 tsp
- Cream 20-30% or milk — 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Sparkling water — 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Vegetable oil — for frying
Step-by-step preparation
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little vegetable oil, and spoon in the tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly caramelized and deeply aromatic.
- Add the garlic, salt, paprika, black pepper, and dried herbs. Stir quickly so the spices bloom and meld with the paste.
- Add the chicken pieces to the spiced base and sear until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Pour in the cream (or milk) and sparkling water, then gently stir so the sauce coats the chicken evenly.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the meat is tender and fully cooked.
- Uncover and, if needed, reduce the sauce for 3-5 minutes to the desired thickness. Taste for salt, adjust the seasoning, and serve hot.
What to serve with it
- Fluffy mashed potatoes or basmati rice
- Short pasta or bulgur
- Crusty bread for the sauce and a simple green salad
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Tips and variations
- Cream can be replaced with 3.2% milk — the sauce will be lighter, but still creamy.
- Sparkling water helps soften the fibers faster and makes the sauce more delicate — this trick is especially good for bone-in pieces.
- For chicken breast, shorten the simmering time to 12-15 minutes to keep it juicy.
- If you like a little heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika.
- Dairy-free version: use coconut cream, which pairs beautifully with tomato and spices.
Nutritional value per serving
| Calories | 560 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Fat | 40 g |
| Carbohydrates | 7 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 1.6 g |
FAQ
Why add sparkling water?
The gentle carbonation helps soften the meat faster and makes the sauce more delicate without long simmering. You won’t taste the drink in the finished dish.
What can I use instead of cream if I don’t have any?
3.2% milk works well, as does milk mixed with a spoonful of sour cream, or lactose-free cream. The sauce will be slightly less thick, but it will keep its creamy softness.
Can I make it with chicken breast?
Yes, but reduce the simmering time to 12-15 minutes after the sauce comes to a boil. Chicken breast cooks faster, so be careful not to dry it out.