SEARED ITALIAN MARINATED BREAST OF CHICKEN WITH TOMATO AND BASIL

Steps:

• To make the marinade, in a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, rosemary, sage, and salt and pepper to taste.
• Slice the chicken breasts on the diagonal into thirds. Using a large knife or cleaver, lightly pound each piece to flatten slightly. Place in a shallow glass or ceramic dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, cover, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, turning occasionally.
• To make the sauce, in a medium-sized saucepan, heat 3 tablespoons of the olive oil over moderate heat. Add the garlic and saute for about 4 minutes, or until lightly browned. Stir in the tomatoes with their juices, the red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in half of the basil leaves. Remove from the heat and cover to keep warm.
• Heat a large saute pan over medium-high heat until very hot. Drain the chicken, discarding the marinade. Add the chicken to the hot pan, without crowding, and saute for 5 to 10 minutes, or until golden brown on both sides and just cooked through. (Cook the chicken in batches or in 2 pans if necessary.) Transfer to a large, warm serving platter.
• Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over the tomato sauce and pour over the chicken. Sprinkle the remaining basil over the top and serve.
• Note: Cook time does not reflect marinating time of at least 8 hours.