Cheesy Chicken with Tomato Sauce

This keto dish merges classic Italian flavors with a touch of Mexican zest. The rich tomato sauce, combined with melted cheddar cheese, perfectly complements the juicy chicken. Perfect for a comforting dinner!

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup tomato paste (preferably no added sugars)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (make sure it's low-sodium)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, dried oregano, and dried basil.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for 5-6 minutes on each side until they're golden brown.
5. In a bowl, mix together the tomato paste and chicken broth until well combined. Pour this mixture over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet.
6. Top each chicken breast with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Flavor Profile: This dish brings together the savory flavors of garlic, herbs, and cheddar cheese, balanced by the rich acidity of the tomato sauce. The chicken remains juicy while being coated in a luscious layer of cheese, making each bite deeply satisfying!

Keto-Friendly Explanation: This recipe is well-aligned with keto principles, as it is high in healthy fats and protein while being low in carbohydrates. The tomato paste provides flavor with minimal carbs, and the use of shredded cheddar cheese adds not only a rich taste but also a source of fat, promoting ketosis.

Enjoy your cooking! If you have any further adjustments or questions, feel free to ask!