Chicken Pepperoni

I'm not sure if any of you remember a movie from back in the 80's called "Seems Like Old Times", starring Chevy Chase and Goldie Hawn, but it's one of my favorite movies. And it's actually the inspiration for this dish! 

Through out the whole movie they keep talking about Chicken Pepperoni, and how it just HAS to be served at this big dinner party they're hosting. 

Even as a child, I knew that Chicken Pepperoni sounded pretty darn good! And you know what? It is!

I promise you that underneath all this sauce is one of the best dishes ever! And one of the best things about it, is that you can have it all prepared and on the table in about half an hour. Perfect dish for a busy weeknight. Yet nice enough to serve for company. Just like in the movie! 

Enjoy!

Ingredients:

1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes

1 15 oz can petite diced tomatoes (Italian seasoned)

4 garlic cloves, minced (divided)

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1 tsp salt

1 tsp sugar

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1 Tbs balsamic vinegar

1 Tbs olive oil

1/4 Lb pepperoni, chopped

1 1/2 Lbs chicken breast tenders

salt & pepper, to taste

4 to 6 fresh basil leaves

Parmesan or Mozzarella cheese for garnish

Directions:

In a medium size sauce pot, add both cans of tomatoes, half of your minced garlic, and next 5 ingredients. Stir to combine, and let simmer over med/low heat while you prepare your chicken. In a large skillet, heat your olive oil over med/high heat. Add your pepperoni, and let cook for a few minutes. You just want to cook it until it starts to render some of it's fat. Add the remaining half of minced garlic, and continue to cook another minute or two; stirring as you go. Remove pepperoni with slotted spoon and add it to your simmering sauce; leaving behind the flavored oil in skillet. Season your chicken breast tenders with a small amount of salt and pepper. Add them to skillet, and sear for 2 minutes on each side. Reduce heat to med/low. Carefully ladle your simmering sauce into the skillet, covering the chicken with it. Place lid on skillet and cook for 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Top with Parmesan or Mozzarella. Place lid back on. Let it sit for a few minutes. Stack your basil leaves one on top of the other, roll them like a cigar, and slice into ribbons. Click HERE for a quick tutorial on how to do this. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of basil ribbons. Serve over your favorite pasta or with garlic bread.
Serves 4 to 6