A flavorful chicken dish simmered in a spiced tomato sauce, perfect for a hearty meal.
Place the chicken breasts in a mixing bowl and drizzle with the juice of one lemon.
Marinating the chicken enhances its flavor and tenderness.
Sprinkle the chicken with salt and let it marinate for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap to keep the flavors sealed in.
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking to avoid burning the ingredients.
Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
Stir in the spices: ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, and cloves, and cook for 1 minute to release their aroma.
Toasting the spices briefly enhances their flavor.
Add the tomato paste, chicken broth, and red wine, stirring to combine.
Scrape the bottom of the pot to incorporate any browned bits for extra flavor.
Place the marinated chicken into the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 50 minutes, turning occasionally.
Simmering the chicken slowly ensures it becomes tender and absorbs the flavors.
Stir in chopped cilantro and serve the chicken with lemon wedges on the side.
Adding fresh herbs at the end preserves their vibrant flavor and color.