As the days grow cooler and the sun begins to set earlier, I find myself yearning for comforting, home-cooked meals that wrap me in warmth. One of my all-time favorites is this Easy One-Pan Braised Chicken with Tomatoes and Shallots. Just the thought of tender chicken thighs slow-cooked in a savory, wine-infused sauce filled with sweet shallots and juicy cherry tomatoes brings a smile to my face.

I discovered this delightful dish during a particularly busy week when takeout just wouldn’t do. The effort-to-reward ratio here is through the roof—no complicated techniques are needed! You’ll simply sauté, mix, and let the oven do the rest. The result? A luscious meal that feels fancy enough for company but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Prepare to impress your family or guests, while savoring every delicious bite of this simple yet flavorful comfort food. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Braised Chicken with Tomatoes a Must-Try?

Comforting warmth: As the cooler days approach, this dish envelops you in savory goodness.
Hands-off cooking: Just sauté, mix, and let the oven work its magic for a fuss-free meal.
Flavor explosion: The combination of tender chicken, sweet shallots, and juicy tomatoes creates a flavor that delights the senses.
Family-friendly: Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a dish that everyone will love digging into.
Versatile options: Feel free to customize with different herbs or veggies to suit your family’s taste.
Easy presentation: Serve it straight from the pan for a rustic charm that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients for Braised Chicken with Tomatoes

• Discover the essential ingredients that make this dish a comforting delight!

For the Chicken

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – Provides rich flavor and moisture for the perfect braise.
Kosher salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing all flavors.

For the Sauce

Unsalted butter (or olive oil) – Adds richness; use olive oil for a lighter, dairy-free option.
Medium shallots – Sweet notes complement the dish; peel and halve them lengthwise.
Cremini mushrooms (optional) – Adds an earthy flavor; quarter them if you decide to use.
Dry white wine – Creates a savory base for the sauce; reduces to 1 ½ cups for optimal impact.
Dijon mustard – Offers a tangy depth, elevating the flavor of the overall dish.
Chicken broth – Enriches the sauce and balances the flavors; can be swapped with extra white wine.
Fresh thyme (or tarragon) – Brighten taste with 2-3 sprigs of this aromatic herb.
Cherry tomatoes – Adds juiciness and acidity; you can leave them whole or slice as preferred.

This blend of ingredients transforms into a comforting and inviting dish that embodies the essence of home cooking. Enjoy every bite!

How to Make Braised Chicken with Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Start by patting the chicken thighs dry, then season generously with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
Sauté in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Melt the unsalted butter (or olive oil), then toss in the halved shallots, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. If you’re adding mushrooms, include them here and sauté for another 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
Deglaze the pan by reducing the heat to medium; pour in the dry white wine, scraping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom. Let this simmer for just 1 minute to infuse the flavors.
Combine the Dijon mustard and chicken broth, then pour this mixture into the skillet alongside the thyme sprigs, nestling the seasoned chicken thighs in the savory sauce.
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Halfway through, baste the chicken with the sauce, then add the cherry tomatoes. Continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and fully cooked.
Broil for a final touch! For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Optional: Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Braised Chicken with Tomatoes

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the chicken tender.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze braised chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating: To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken juicy.

Room Temperature: If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure safety; otherwise, refrigerate promptly. Enjoy your delicious braised chicken with tomatoes!

What to Serve with Braised Chicken with Tomatoes?

Create the perfect meal around this hearty dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort.

Crusty Bread: Ideal for soaking up the savory sauce, this warm, chewy bread adds a delightful texture to every bite.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes complement the tangy sauce while adding richness to the dish.
Steamed Asparagus: With its bright color and crisp texture, asparagus adds freshness and balance to the hearty braised chicken experience.
Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken, making each forkful delightful.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables spices things up, thanks to sweet caramelization, offering a delicious side that’s both healthy and colorful.
Dry White Wine: Enjoy a glass of the same wine you used in the recipe for a harmonious pairing that enhances the meal’s flavors.

A thoughtfully curated spread will elevate your dining experience, leaving everyone at the table satisfied and happy!

Make Ahead Options

These Braised Chicken with Tomatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken thighs and prepare the shallots up to 24 hours in advance, simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their flavor and freshness. Additionally, the sauce components—wine, broth, and mustard—can be combined ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the remaining steps by heating the skillet and adding the chicken to the prepared sauce. This method not only saves time on busy nights but ensures your meal is just as delicious, bringing warmth and comfort to your table effortlessly.

Braised Chicken with Tomatoes Variations

Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen! Transform this dish into something uniquely yours with a few easy swaps and additions.

Vegetable Boost: Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor. It gives a wholesome feel to the dish!
Herb Change: Switch fresh thyme with oregano or basil to craft a vibrant, fresh taste that can dance on your palate.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a delicious heat that warms the soul.
Wine-Free: Use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead of wine for a non-alcoholic version that’s equally comforting.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream towards the end of cooking for a rich, velvety sauce that elevates the dish.
Citrus Zing: Add lemon zest or juice for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the overall flavor profile.
Grain Swap: Serve over quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a nutty twist that complements the flavors wonderfully.
One-Pan Wonder: Layer sliced zucchini or eggplant right into the pan for a delicious veggie layer that melds flavors beautifully.

Embrace the joy of cooking with these variations, and let your dish reflect your family’s tastes!

Expert Tips for Braised Chicken with Tomatoes

Trim Fat: Ensure to trim excess fat from chicken thighs to avoid a greasy sauce that may overwhelm the flavors.
Cook Time: For boneless, skinless chicken thighs, reduce braising time by about 10 minutes for perfectly cooked chicken.
Basting: Don’t forget to baste the chicken halfway through cooking, ensuring it absorbs all the delicious flavors from the sauce.
Pan Size: Avoid overcrowding the pan; use a large skillet to allow the sauce to thicken properly and the chicken to crisp up.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer preservation without losing flavor.

Braised Chicken with Tomatoes Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for braising?
Absolutely! I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for this braised chicken with tomatoes. They provide a rich flavor and moisture that keeps the meat tender and juicy throughout the braising process. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can also use chicken legs, but avoid boneless cuts, as they can dry out more easily.

How should I store my braised chicken leftovers?
For the best taste and freshness, store your leftover braised chicken with tomatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to allow the dish to cool to room temperature before sealing it. This way, the flavors will meld beautifully, and the chicken will stay tender.

Can I freeze braised chicken, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze your braised chicken with tomatoes, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture.

Why is my chicken not browning properly in the oven?
If your chicken isn’t browning, it may be due to overcrowding the pan or not using enough heat. To achieve a beautifully golden skin, ensure there’s plenty of space between the chicken thighs and other ingredients so the heat can circulate. Additionally, consider using a broiler for the last few minutes of cooking for that desired crispy finish—just keep a close eye to avoid burning!

Can I modify this recipe to meet dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can omit the wine and instead use extra chicken broth or water if you’re avoiding alcohol. For a dairy-free version, simply use olive oil instead of butter. If you have allergies, ensure to check labels for any pre-packaged ingredients like chicken broth or mustard and choose options that fit your diet.

What should I do if I don’t have fresh herbs?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh thyme or tarragon, you can substitute with dried herbs. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs required. While the flavor profile may slightly differ, it will still create a delicious braising sauce that compliments the chicken beautifully.