Are you craving a delicious and satisfying dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This recipe for boneless chicken thighs cooked on the stovetop is your answer. It's incredibly versatile, adaptable to your favorite flavors, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual weekend dinner. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy cooking times; this easy recipe prioritizes speed and flavor, making it a staple in your healthy meal repertoire. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started: Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. This simple step elevates the flavor significantly.
Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Add the garlic and chicken: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the seasoned chicken thighs and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
Simmer to perfection: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, oregano, basil, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This dish is delightful on its own or served over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of chicken, cook it in batches to ensure even browning. Overcrowding the pan will lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the mixture uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Delicious Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary.
- Creamy Tomato Chicken: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 30-35g Fat: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This simple, healthy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It offers a delicious and satisfying meal that's packed with flavor and nutrients. The best recipes are often the easiest, and this one certainly fits the bill! Enjoy!