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Pollo Tonnata (Chicken in Tuna Sauce)

Pollo Tonnata (Chicken in Tuna Sauce recipe image
This classic Italian dish, Pollo Tonnata, offers a unique twist on the traditional tonnato sauce by pairing it with tender chicken instead of beef. The sauce is a luxurious blend of canned tuna, anchovies, capers, and mayonnaise, creating a creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavor profile that coats the meat beautifully. The chicken is simply poached or pan-seared to keep it moist and delicate, allowing the bold sauce to shine. Served cold or at room temperature, often with a side of warm bread and crisp vegetables like bell peppers and cannellini beans, this meal is perfect for a light summer dinner, a potluck contribution, or a quick weeknight meal that feels sophisticated yet requires minimal effort.
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 2
Calories: 450
Description
This classic Italian dish, Pollo Tonnata, offers a unique twist on the traditional tonnato sauce by pairing it with tender chicken instead of beef. The sauce is a luxurious blend of canned tuna, anchovies, capers, and mayonnaise, creating a creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavor profile that coats the meat beautifully. The chicken is simply poached or pan-seared to keep it moist and delicate, allowing the bold sauce to shine. Served cold or at room temperature, often with a side of warm bread and crisp vegetables like bell peppers and cannellini beans, this meal is perfect for a light summer dinner, a potluck contribution, or a quick weeknight meal that feels sophisticated yet requires minimal effort.
Directions
  1. 1
    Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. 2
    Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil.
  3. 3
    Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes until browned.
  4. 4
    Push the chicken to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil to the empty side.
  5. 5
    Add the sliced red bell pepper, cannellini beans, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 5 minutes, tossing occasionally until the peppers are tender.
  6. 6
    While the chicken cooks, place the Italian bread in the preheated oven to warm for about 5-7 minutes.
  7. 7
    In a food processor or blender, combine the rinsed anchovy fillets, drained tuna, mayonnaise, yogurt, and 1/4 cup water.
  8. 8
    Process until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with a little more water if needed.
  9. 9
    Remove chicken from heat. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips or keep whole.
  10. 10
    To serve, spoon the bean and pepper mixture onto individual plates.
  11. 11
    Place the cooked chicken on top of the vegetables.
  12. 12
    Generously pour the tuna sauce over the chicken.
  13. 13
    Sprinkle with capers and sliced black olives. Serve with the warmed Italian bread.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2 pies

Amount Per Serving
Calories 450kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 22g34%
Saturated Fat 4g20%
Cholesterol 150mg50%
Sodium 800mg34%
Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
Dietary Fiber 8g32%
Sugars 5g
Protein 35g70%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: italian, chicken, tuna, tonnata, pollo, anchovy, capers, creamy, cold dish, salad, main course, easy dinner, mediterranean, protein, bell pepper, cannellini beans, mayonnaise, yogurt, garlic, bread
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/pollo-tonnata-chicken-in-tuna-sauce/