Are you craving a dish that's both vibrant and satisfying? Look no further! This recipe for Chicken and Jalapeño is a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a more elaborate weekend meal. It's a delicious blend of savory chicken, spicy jalapeños, and aromatic flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this easy recipe is perfect for you. Get ready to experience the delightful heat and incredible taste!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 large jalapeños, seeded and minced (remove membranes for less heat)
- 1 medium red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and jalapeños and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even browning.
Step 3: Simmer the Stew
Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), black beans, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. 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 flavors have melded.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with lime wedges. This delicious dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or tortillas.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a milder dish, remove the membranes from the jalapeños before mincing. You can also use fewer jalapeños or substitute with a milder pepper.
- Don't overcook the chicken; it should be cooked through but still juicy.
- For a thicker stew, you can simmer it uncovered for the last few minutes to reduce the sauce.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, corn, or zucchini.
Variations:
- Creamy Chicken and Jalapeño: Stir in a ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier stew.
- Spicy Chicken and Jalapeño: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Chicken and Jalapeño Tacos: Use the chicken and jalapeño mixture as a filling for tacos.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 30g Fat: Approximately 10-15g Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Chicken and Jalapeño recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas that are both delicious and easy to make. Enjoy this homemade cooking experience! It’s sure to become one of your best recipes.