Tired of bland meals? Craving delicious, homemade food without spending hours in the kitchen? Then you need to discover the magic of Badia Complete Seasoning! This versatile blend elevates any dish, transforming simple ingredients into flavor explosions. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this easy recipe showcases the power of this incredible seasoning. It's perfect for busy weeknights, and it's a healthy and delicious addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon Badia Complete Seasoning (or your favorite all-purpose seasoning blend)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or substitute with firm tofu, shrimp, or vegetables)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- ½ cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Protein
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with Badia Complete Seasoning. This is where the magic starts! Don't be shy with the seasoning; it's the star of the show.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken (or Substitute)
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. If using tofu, pan-fry until golden brown. Shrimp only requires a few minutes of cooking until pink. For a vegetarian option, skip this step and move to Step 4.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained) and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors become.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the chicken (or your chosen protein) is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve hot over rice, quinoa, couscous, or pasta. This simple dish makes a delightful and satisfying healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- For even browning, ensure your chicken is patted dry before seasoning and cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet; cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Adjust the amount of Badia Complete Seasoning to your preference. Start with the suggested amount and add more to taste.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms along with the onions.
- Citrus Burst: Add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice at the end for a refreshing twist.
- Creamy Delight: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a creamy finish.
- Spicy Fiesta: Include a diced jalapeño pepper with the onions and garlic for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This delicious and easy recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with the right seasoning, can create a truly exceptional dish. Enjoy this flavorful meal, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. It's a testament to the power of homemade cooking and one of the best recipes you'll find for quick and healthy meals.