Are you looking for quick dinner ideas that are both healthy and delicious? Craving a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This recipe for diced chicken is your answer. It's incredibly versatile, easy to make, and perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is a guaranteed winner, offering a fantastic base for countless dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into ½-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and bell peppers, and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender-crisp.
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Brown the Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. This step helps to develop the flavor of the chicken. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
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Simmer to Perfection: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. If using, add the red pepper flakes now. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious diced chicken hot. It's fantastic on its own, over rice, pasta, quinoa, or with a side of your favorite vegetables.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
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Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will ensure even browning and prevent steaming. Work in batches if needed.
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Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference. Add more herbs, spices, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
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Make it Ahead: This dish is even better the next day! The flavors meld together beautifully overnight. Prepare it ahead of time for a quick and easy meal during the week.
Delicious Variations:
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Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for a bright and flavorful twist.
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Creamy Chicken: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
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Mexican Chicken: Add a packet of taco seasoning, a can of black beans, and some corn for a southwestern flair.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy diced chicken recipe is a perfect example of how simple, healthy meals can be incredibly delicious. It’s a fantastic base recipe that can be easily adapted to suit your taste and dietary needs. Experiment with different vegetables, spices, and sauces to create your own unique versions. Enjoy the culinary adventure!