Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy meal? Then look no further! This Chicken with Tahini Sauce recipe is your answer. It's a delicious dish packed with protein and healthy fats, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a more relaxed weekend meal. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this simple yet elegant recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked couscous or rice (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Tahini Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, and water until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour the tahini sauce over the chicken and tomatoes, stirring gently to coat everything evenly. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through and the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the chicken with tahini sauce over a bed of cooked couscous or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when browning the chicken. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- For a richer sauce, use full-fat coconut milk instead of chicken broth.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce for a more complete meal.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of harissa paste for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-450 Protein: Approximately 35-40g Fat: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Chicken with Tahini Sauce recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy homemade cooking. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a satisfying and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!