Craving that vibrant, flavorful Fiesta Chicken from Applebee's? You don't need a reservation – you can easily recreate this delicious dish at home! This recipe offers a simplified, yet incredibly satisfying version of the restaurant favorite. It's a perfect example of how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be, a quick dinner idea ready in under 30 minutes, and a healthy meal option that the whole family will adore. Get ready for a fiesta of flavor!
Ingredients: A Colorful Cast of Characters
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 (4 oz) can chopped green chilies
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Tortillas, rice, or your favorite sides
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Fiesta
Get started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Build the flavor:
- Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Bring it all together:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), chopped green chilies, chicken broth, sour cream, Monterey Jack cheese, taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Simmer to perfection:
- 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. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serve and enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. Enjoy your homemade Applebee's Fiesta Chicken! Serve with warm tortillas for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for Fiesta Success
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of lime juice, taco seasoning, and olive oil for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Variations: Spice Up Your Fiesta
- Add some heat: Include a diced jalapeño pepper along with the other vegetables for an extra kick.
- Creamy dream: For a richer sauce, use a combination of sour cream and cream cheese.
- Cheese please!: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Protein power-up: Add black beans or corn for extra protein and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 30g Fat: Approximately 15g Carbohydrates: Approximately 20g
This easy recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Enjoy the fiesta!