chicken sorrentino recipe
The Best chicken sorrentino recipe
Chicken Sorrentino is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug for my family’s table. I’ve been making it since my kids were little, and it’s always a hit—whether we’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a more formal gathering. The key is the simplicity of the ingredients, but the way they come together makes it feel special. My husband swears by it, and my kids ask for seconds almost every time, which is a win in my book. It’s that kind of dish that’s easy to make but always feels like a celebration, no matter how ordinary the day is.
What I love most about this recipe is how balanced it is—tender chicken, bright lemon and garlic flavors, and a creamy sauce that’s just rich enough without being heavy. It’s not a dish that requires fancy techniques, but the results are always impressive. My kids love how the sauce coats the chicken perfectly, and my husband says it’s the only dish he’ll eat when it’s on the menu. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served with pasta, rice, or even just steamed veggies if we’re in a hurry. The health benefits are a bonus too—lean protein, fresh herbs, and a touch of olive oil keep it light but satisfying, which is perfect for a family that eats a lot of home-cooked meals.
I’ve made this recipe for everything from Sunday suppers to holiday dinners, and it never fails to bring people together. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a comfort, but it’s also fresh and flavorful enough to make you feel like you’re indulging. My kids grew up eating it, and now that they’re older, they still come home asking for it. It’s a recipe that’s as comforting as it is easy, and that’s why I keep it in my rotation every week.
Chicken Sorrentino
A delicious Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken baked with a rich tomato sauce and fresh herbs, served over a light, fluffy dough. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Add warm milk, egg, and olive oil. Stir until a soft dough forms. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
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2 In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
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3 In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic in olive oil for 30 seconds. Add tomato paste and crushed tomatoes, stirring well. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, simmer for 10 minutes. Season with sugar, salt, and pepper.
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4 Roll out the risen dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 4 rectangles. Place each rectangle on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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5 Place a chicken breast on each dough rectangle. Spoon sauce over the chicken, then fold the dough over the chicken and sauce. Brush the edges with a little olive oil to seal. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
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6 Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil, grated Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Kitchen shears
- Oven
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Chicken Sorrentino Works
This Chicken Sorrentino recipe is always a go-to for me because it’s simple yet packed with flavor—perfect for when you want something hearty without the fuss. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for family gatherings, the tender chicken and rich tomato sauce make it feel special without needing fancy ingredients. It’s that kind of dish that feels like a hug in every bite, and it never disappoints when people are hungry and ready to eat.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Sorrentino
What is the origin of the Chicken Sorrentino recipe?
The Chicken Sorrentino recipe originates from Naples, Italy, and is a classic dish inspired by the region’s rich culinary traditions. It typically features chicken braised in a rich, tomato-based sauce with garlic, olives, capers, and sometimes a splash of white wine. The name “Sorrentino” reflects its ties to Sorrento, a coastal town near Naples, where similar dishes have been enjoyed for generations.
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What ingredients are essential for making authentic Chicken Sorrentino?
For an authentic version, you’ll need: – Chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in for best flavor) – San Marzano tomatoes (or high-quality plum tomatoes) – Garlic (fresh, minced) – Black olives (Kalamata or green, chopped) – Capers (finely chopped) – White wine (dry, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) – Tomato paste (1–2 tbsp) – Olive oil (extra virgin) – Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or basil) – Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat) – Salt & black pepper (to taste) – Pepperoncini or hot peppers (optional, for extra spice)
Some versions also include anchovies or fennel, adding depth to the sauce.
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Why does Chicken Sorrentino use San Marzano tomatoes?
San Marzano tomatoes are prized for their low acidity, sweetness, and tender flesh, making them ideal for sauces like Sorrentino. Their natural sugars balance the acidity, resulting in a smoother, more flavorful sauce without the bitterness of regular tomatoes. While high-quality plum tomatoes can substitute, San Marzano is the traditional choice for authenticity.
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Can I make Chicken Sorrentino without wine?
Yes! If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with: – Tomato broth (simmered with herbs) – Extra tomato paste (for thickness) – A splash of vegetable broth (to enhance depth) – A pinch of sugar (to soften acidity, if tomatoes are too tart)
Simmer the sauce longer to let flavors meld without relying solely on wine. The dish still benefits from a liquid base to keep the chicken tender and the sauce rich.
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How long should I cook the Chicken Sorrentino for?
The cooking time depends on the cut of chicken: – Chicken thighs/drumsticks: Braise for 1.5–2 hours (until tender and juicy). – Chicken breasts (if using): Cook for 30–40 minutes (since they cook faster). – Bone-in chicken: The slow braising process (with liquid) ensures the meat stays moist and flavorful.
For extra tenderness, you can parboil the chicken first (5–7 minutes) before adding it to the sauce. Always check doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F/74°C for thighs).
