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Creamy Tomato Chicken drumsticks simmered in a rich, velvety sauce that’s full of flavor and comfort. This chicken in tomato sauce is the kind of recipe that makes you want to grab a spoon and soak up every drop over fluffy rice or a bowl of quinoa. I love tossing in mushrooms and a few broccoli florets for extra texture and color. It’s a hearty, cozy meal that comes together effortlessly and always disappears fast.

Zoom in image of Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

What Makes This Recipe Work

What makes this Tomato Chicken recipe so good is how the flavors balance perfectly, rich, creamy, and full of that slow-cooked depth without needing much effort. The sauce clings beautifully to the chicken drumsticks, creating a comforting dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.

It’s also wonderfully versatile. Whether you call it a chicken in tomato sauce, a cozy chicken tomato recipe, or simply chicken with tomato sauce, it pairs effortlessly with rice, pasta, or even crusty bread. Every bite is packed with flavor and warmth, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or easy weekend dinners.

What Goes Into Tomato Chicken

A cozy, flavor-packed dish starts with simple, fresh ingredients that bring both richness and comfort to your table. This Tomato Chicken recipe is creamy, hearty, and full of wholesome goodness, perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying without too much effort.

  • Chicken Drumsticks: Juicy and tender, they soak up all that creamy tomato sauce for maximum flavor.
  • Tomato Soup or Passata: The base of this chicken in tomato sauce, adding sweetness and depth to every bite.
  • Cream Cheese: Gives the sauce its irresistible creaminess. Use Greek yogurt if you prefer a lighter, tangier twist.
  • Mushrooms and Broccoli: Add earthy flavor and texture, making this chicken tomato recipe feel like a complete meal in one pan.

Note: Please see recipe card at the bottom for a full list of ingredients with measurements.

How To Make Tomato Chicken

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  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant. This builds the savory base for your creamy tomato sauce.
  1. Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken drumsticks and sear them on all sides until lightly golden. Browning adds depth and locks in the juices.
  1. Add the Vegetables: Toss in the broccoli florets, mushrooms, and diced tomato. Cook until the broccoli just starts to turn bright green and the tomato begins to soften.
  1. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the condensed tomato soup or passata, then reduce the heat. Let everything simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
  1. Thicken the Mixture: Stir in the tomato paste and continue simmering for another 5 minutes. The sauce will deepen in color and develop a rich, hearty flavor.
  1. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and mix in cream cheese or Greek yogurt until creamy. Garnish with chives and serve chicken with tomato sauce over rice or quinoa.

For a creative twist, pair your Tomato Chicken with Sausage Eggplant Lasagna with Ricotta Pesto. The layers of smoky eggplant and herbed ricotta echo the creamy tomato flavors while adding a unique Italian flair that feels comforting but unexpected.

You can also serve it alongside Crispy Broccoli Parmesan Fritters for a crunchy, cheesy side that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken. To finish, Chai Apple Muffins bring a warm spiced sweetness that ties the whole meal together without being too heavy.

Tips for Making Tomato Chicken

  • Sear the chicken first to lock in flavor before adding the sauce. I love getting that golden crust—it adds so much depth once everything simmers together.
  • Use good-quality tomato soup or passata for the best flavor. If you like it a little tangy, stir in a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end.
  • Don’t rush the simmering. Letting the sauce bubble gently gives the Tomato Chicken that rich, slow-cooked taste even when it’s done in under 30 minutes.
  • Stir in the cream cheese off the heat so it melts smoothly without curdling. It’s my favorite trick for the creamiest chicken with tomato sauce every time.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead Of Drumsticks?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs work just as well in this recipe and stay juicy in the creamy tomato sauce. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if using boneless pieces.

What Can I Use Instead Of Cream Cheese?

Greek yogurt or light cream both work beautifully. They’ll keep the sauce creamy while adding a little tang to your chicken tomato recipe.

How Do I Thicken The Sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes, or add a spoonful of tomato paste for a richer texture and color.

Spicy and Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks
4.75 from 4 votes

Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Chicken drumsticks in creamy tomato sauce, the perfect winter comfort food. Creamy Tomato Chicken Drumsticks take tomato soup to the next level!
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Ingredients 
 

  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 medium brown onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic crushed
  • 8 pieces chicken drumsticks
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 cup mushrooms
  • 1 large ripe tomato diced
  • 15 oz can condensed tomato soup (or Passata also know in the U.S as Tomato Sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 8.8 oz reduced fat or fat free cream cheese (substitute with greek yogurt for a healthier option)
  • Chives to garnish

Instructions 

  • Fry the onion and garlic in a large skillet/frying pan until fragrant and soft. Add in the chicken drumsticks and fry while turning occasionally to brown on all sides. Add the broccoli, mushrooms and tomato, and continue to cook until the broccoli just begins to change colour and the tomato softens.
  • Pour in the soup; reduce heat and allow to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Add in the tomato paste, stirring to thicken the sauce. Continue simmering for a further 5 minutes, or until the chicken is soft and tender. Take off heat, stir the cream cheese (or greek yogurt) through and serve over rice or quinoa!

Notes

Mop up the juices with fresh, buttered artisan bread or serve over rice to soak up the sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 497kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 173mg | Sodium: 833mg | Potassium: 1.469mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 1.433IU | Vitamin C: 62mg | Calcium: 157mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Tried this? Leave a comment below!

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4.75 from 4 votes

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10 Comments

  1. Chris says:

    5 stars
    Lovely meal, I got a little bit confused with the 1 tub measurement, once that was figured out, all was lovely. I used yogurt instead of cheese and added thighs as well as drumsticks.
    I will use this again.
    Thankyou!!

  2. Kewb says:

    5 stars
    This one was great to use up the tomatoes and broccoli in the fridge that was going to go bad, flavor was good too depending on how you season your chicken! Thanks for this one saved me a lot

  3. Julia says:

    4 stars
    I was wondering what temperature to fry the chicken – high? And about how long will it take to do this before you add the veggies? I think I did something wrong, the chicken came out a bit tough, I think I probably overcooked it.

  4. juana Hernandez says:

    5 stars
    i will be making the dish tonight for dinner looks good. hopefully mine comes out just as good. thank you for a new idea for chicken ?

  5. Criss says:

    So my dish came out creamier than the picture shown and I followed the recipe exactly the way it is. Maybe I put too much cream cheese? But it says 1 tub, which I assume is 8 oz? Still delicious! 🙂

    1. Karina says:

      I’m not sure what could have changed the consistency Criss. It could be different products give different results, but I’m so happy you enjoyed it!

  6. Yana says:

    How many ounces/cups are in the tub of cream cheese? I plan to use Greek yogurt for the healthier option but the recipe doesn’t state the size of the tub. Thanks!

    1. Karina says:

      1 cup or 8oz 🙂

  7. nicole (thespicetrain.com) says:

    These photos are totally awesome, I love them too, Karina 🙂

    1. Karina says:

      Thank you so much Nicole 🙂 Really, thank you Xxxx