Craving a comforting, flavorful, and healthy meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Chicken Collard Greens recipe is a delicious twist on a Southern classic, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. It's packed with flavor, nutrients, and a whole lot of soul. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this simple yet impressive dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound collard greens, stems removed and chopped
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), black pepper, and salt. Cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Greens
Return the chicken to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, and chopped collard greens. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the collard greens are tender.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Stir in the apple cider vinegar and brown sugar (if using). Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Tips for the Best Chicken Collard Greens:
- Don't overcook the collard greens: Overcooked collard greens can become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly firm.
- Use fresh collard greens: Fresh collard greens have the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, be sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the pot.
- Adjust the spices to your liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to your preference.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers to this recipe.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Collard Greens: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Chicken Collard Greens: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Ham and Collard Greens: Add diced ham or smoked ham hock for a richer, smokier flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This Chicken Collard Greens recipe is a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful collard greens, and aromatic spices creates a dish that is both satisfying and comforting. Enjoy!