Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both delicious and surprisingly healthy? Look no further! This Apple Butter Chicken recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It's an easy recipe that delivers a sweet and savory flavor combination you won't soon forget. Forget takeout; this homemade cooking masterpiece is ready in under 30 minutes and requires minimal cleanup. Get ready to impress your family with this amazing dish!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup apple butter
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavour base for our delicious dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning. This ensures a beautiful sear on the chicken, enhancing its flavour.
Step 3: Simmer in the Apple Butter Sauce
Stir in the apple butter, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately over rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish. This simple yet flavourful dish is perfect for a weeknight meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Apple Butter Chicken:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of apple butter. Conversely, add more for a sweeter profile.
- Add some heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favourite hot sauce to the sauce.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this dish with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Variations:
- Apple Butter Chicken with Caramelized Apples: Add 1-2 thinly sliced apples to the skillet along with the onions for a touch of extra sweetness and texture. Caramelize the apples before adding the chicken for enhanced flavor.
- Apple Butter Chicken with Cranberries: Stir in 1/4 cup of dried cranberries along with the apple butter for a festive twist. This addition complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Apple Butter Chicken Bake: Transfer the chicken and sauce to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Apple Butter Chicken recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy food recipes. It's a quick and easy dinner solution perfect for those busy weeknights, showcasing the best of homemade cooking. Enjoy!