Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and quick dinner? Look no further! This recipe for chopped chicken thighs is your new go-to for easy weeknight meals. Forget complicated cooking techniques – this dish is surprisingly simple, yet bursting with flavor. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights, offering a healthy meal option that's ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients: What You'll Need
This recipe serves 4. Adjust ingredient quantities as needed for different serving sizes.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Simple Guide
Let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a fantastic meal.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped bell peppers; cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Brown the Chicken: Add the chopped chicken thighs to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. This step helps to develop a rich flavor and adds a nice texture.
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Simmer to Perfection: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, oregano, basil, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. 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: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This delicious and healthy meal is perfect on its own or served over rice, quinoa, or your favorite pasta.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Results
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Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning. Overcrowding the pan will steam the chicken instead of browning it.
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Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. Experiment with other herbs and spices like cumin, thyme, or chili powder.
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Add some vegetables: Expand your delicious dishes by adding other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots.
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Make it a complete meal: Serve this chopped chicken thigh recipe over rice, couscous, or a bed of greens for a more filling and satisfying meal.
Variations: Explore Endless Possibilities
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Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the skillet along with the chicken broth for a bright and zesty flavor.
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Spicy Chicken: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
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Creamy Chicken: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce. This is great as a quick dinner idea.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy recipe offers a healthy and flavorful meal packed with protein and vegetables. Enjoy your delicious homemade creation! It’s perfect for meal prepping, too – just store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.