Grilled Chicken Breast with Tomato-Tarragon Sauce

A Simple Summer Supper: Grilled Chicken with Tomato-Tarragon Sauce

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy meal can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are often a blur of school pick-ups, homework help, and the ever-present to-do list. But even amidst the chaos, I crave a meal that nourishes my family and satisfies my own desire for flavorful, fresh food. This Grilled Chicken Breast with Tomato-Tarragon Sauce recipe has become a lifesaver. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying, a perfect embodiment of simple elegance.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The vibrant tomato-tarragon sauce is incredibly easy to make – it literally takes minutes to whip up in a food processor. The fresh tarragon adds a delightful herbaceous note, complementing the juicy chicken perfectly. I often adjust the recipe based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, other times I swap out the balsamic vinegar for lemon juice for a brighter flavor profile. The flexibility is a huge bonus on busy weeknights when I need a quick solution.

This recipe isn’t just for busy weeknights; it's also perfect for a relaxed weekend lunch. I love grilling the chicken outside, enjoying the sunshine and fresh air while it cooks. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water! The grilled chicken is incredibly versatile, and I often serve it with a variety of sides depending on my mood and what's in season. A simple salad, some roasted vegetables, or even a side of quinoa or couscous all pair beautifully with this dish.

Beyond the ease of preparation and the delicious taste, this recipe also scores high on the health factor. Chicken breast is a lean protein source, packed with nutrients that are essential for my family's well-being. The tomatoes provide a boost of vitamins and antioxidants, and the tarragon adds a flavor punch without adding unnecessary calories. It's the kind of meal I feel good about serving my family, knowing that it's both nutritious and delicious.

This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a symbol of effortless elegance. It's a testament to the fact that a truly delicious and healthy meal doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s a reminder that even amidst the daily hustle and bustle of life, there’s always time to enjoy a simple, yet satisfying, home-cooked meal. So next time you're short on time but craving something flavorful and nutritious, give this Grilled Chicken Breast with Tomato-Tarragon Sauce a try. You won't be disappointed.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
• Roast some seasonal vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers to accompany the chicken.
• A side of quinoa or couscous adds a healthy and hearty element to the meal.
• For a summery touch, serve with a scoop of berry sorbet and sliced peaches, as suggested by Chef Luce.

Variations:

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier sauce.
• Substitute lemon juice for the balsamic vinegar for a brighter flavor.
• Use different herbs, such as basil or oregano, instead of tarragon.
• Marinate the chicken overnight for extra flavor.

This Grilled Chicken Breast with Tomato-Tarragon Sauce is a recipe that will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire. It’s a versatile, healthy, and incredibly delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• Prepare barbecue (medium-high heat).
• Whisk 2 tablespoons tarragon, 1 1/2 tablespoons oil and 1 teaspoon garlic in shallow dish to blend.
• Using rolling pin, lightly pound chicken between sheets of waxed paper to uniform 1/2-inch thickness.
• Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper.
• Add chicken to tarragon mixture and turn to coat.
• Let stand 10 minutes.
• Meanwhile, blend tomato and remaining 1 tablespoon oil in processor until smooth.
• Add vinegar, remaining 1 tablespoon tarragon and remaining 1/4 teaspoon garlic and just mix in, using on/off turns.
• Season sauce to taste with salt and pepper.
• Grill chicken until brown and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side.
• Transfer chicken to plates.
• Spoon sauce around chicken.
• Garnish with tarragon sprigs, if desired, and serve.