If you’ve been craving something hearty, flavorful, and comforting, this chicken marinara sauce is exactly what you need. It’s a beautifully simple dish that brings together a few humble pantry staples—like tomato sauce, garlic, and oregano—into a rich, satisfying sauce perfect for your favorite pasta, a warm baguette, or even spooned over roasted vegetables.
I make this dish often when I want something cozy but quick. It’s also the kind of recipe that fits seamlessly into weeknight dinners, last-minute meal preps, or a casual get-together that needs a reliable hit. The best part? It’s incredibly adaptable and always delivers big on flavor.
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What Exactly Is Chicken Marinara Sauce?
Chicken marinara sauce is a classic Italian-American dish where savory chicken is simmered in a well-seasoned tomato-based sauce.
Traditionally, it’s made with whole cuts of chicken, but I love using plant-based chicken strips for a modern, quick-cooking twist.
The sauce is bold, garlicky, slightly spicy from crushed pepper, and infused with the warmth of herbs like oregano. It pairs effortlessly with spaghetti, penne, or even layered into a rustic lasagna.
Getting the Best Flavor From Simple Ingredients
It all starts with a drizzle of olive oil. Sautéing onions and garlic in it creates a fragrant, savory base that’s impossible to resist. Once that’s ready, I add in the plant-based chicken, letting it soak up all that aromatic goodness.
Then comes the tomato sauce. It should be thick, rich, and preferably one with no added sugar. A dash of crushed pepper brings a gentle heat, and oregano rounds out the flavor profile with that unmistakable Italian vibe.
These ingredients come together in a way that feels both fresh and deeply comforting. Whether you’re working with what you have on hand or choosing your favorite tomato sauce from the store, it’s all about balancing acidity, sweetness, and spice.
How I Make My Chicken Marinara Sauce
In my kitchen, this dish starts with a skillet over medium heat. I pour in olive oil and gently cook the onions until soft and translucent. Then I toss in minced garlic just until it becomes golden and fragrant. That’s when I add the plant-based chicken, giving it time to brown slightly and take on some texture.
Once it’s nicely golden, I stir in the tomato sauce, followed by a generous pinch of crushed pepper and oregano. After bringing everything to a low simmer, I let it bubble away gently for about 5–10 minutes, enough time for all the flavors to meld beautifully.
A few stirs here and there, and the sauce is ready to serve.
Smart Tips for Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which doesn’t always happen in my house), they keep wonderfully. I store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and they reheat like a dream on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What I love most is how the flavors deepen overnight, making the sauce even more delicious the next day.
It also freezes well. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing it up.
Ways to Switch It Up or Use It Creatively
This chicken marinara sauce is endlessly versatile. I sometimes spoon it over cooked rice or use it as a filling in stuffed peppers. It’s also amazing in sandwiches, especially if you toast the bread and add a bit of fresh basil or arugula.
When I’m in the mood for a heartier meal, I’ll mix it with cooked pasta and top it with breadcrumbs before baking it for a rustic casserole feel.
The sauce is also perfect as a pizza base if you want something beyond the usual marinara.
Common Questions About Chicken Marinara Sauce
Yes! I’ve tried this recipe with strips, chunks, and even shredded varieties. Choose one that holds up well to simmering and has a neutral or savory flavor profile.
Not quite. While both dishes use marinara sauce, chicken parmesan typically involves breaded and baked or fried chicken topped with cheese, whereas this sauce is simpler, saucier, and meant to be combined with pasta or grains.
That’s totally up to you. The crushed pepper gives a gentle kick, but you can adjust it based on your spice comfort level—or even omit it entirely for a milder take.
Absolutely. In fact, I often do. It holds up well in the fridge and tastes even better after a day. Just reheat it slowly and stir gently.
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Join Me in Sharing This Deliciousness
I’d love to see your version of this chicken marinara sauce! If you try it, don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram or Facebook. Seeing how you make it your own always makes my day.
And if you loved it, feel free to leave a comment below with a star rating. It helps more people find the recipe and brings a smile to my face knowing it brought joy to yours.
Happy cooking—and don’t be surprised if this becomes one of your go-to comfort meals.
Easy Chicken Marinara Sauce
Craving something hearty and comforting? This chicken marinara sauce is perfect! Made with simple pantry staples like tomato sauce, garlic, and oregano, it’s rich and satisfying. Enjoy it with pasta, a baguette, or roasted veggies. It’s quick, cozy, and great for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s adaptable and always flavorful!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces plant-based chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion
- 2 large cloves garlic
- 12 ounces tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place a skillet on the stove and set the heat to medium. Once the skillet is warm, pour in a generous amount of olive oil, allowing it to coat the surface evenly.
- Add diced onions to the skillet, cooking them gently until they become soft and appear translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Introduce minced garlic to the mixture, stirring it in until it turns a golden color and fills the air with a rich, aromatic fragrance, which should take approximately 2 minutes.
- Add plant-based chicken pieces to the skillet, tossing them around to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil and garlic. Cook them until they develop a slight brown color, enhancing their texture.
- Pour in tomato sauce, followed by a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a hint of heat and a dash of oregano for a touch of earthy flavor.
Reduce the heat to low, allowing the mixture to simmer gently. Let it bubble softly for 5 to 10 minutes, giving it time to meld the flavors together. - Occasionally stir the sauce to ensure it cooks evenly. Once ready, remove the skillet from the heat and serve the flavorful sauce.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 180Total Fat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 551mgCarbohydrates: 8gFiber: 2gSugar: 4gProtein: 15g