Craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that transports you straight to the sunny shores of Costa Rica? Look no further! This Costa Rican Chicken recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make masterpiece perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's bursting with fresh, zesty flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. This recipe is a celebration of homemade cooking, offering a healthy and satisfying meal that's surprisingly simple to achieve. Get ready to experience the best of easy recipes and delicious dishes!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooked rice, for serving (optional)
- Tortillas or plantains, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and bell peppers, and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. This step helps develop a richer flavor and ensures the chicken is cooked evenly.
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Simmer to Perfection: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, cilantro, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, 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 sauce has slightly thickened.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Costa Rican chicken hot over rice, with tortillas, or alongside plantains for a complete and authentic meal. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make this dish a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Tips for the Best Costa Rican Chicken:
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the chicken uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as chopped carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Marinating the chicken for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking will enhance the flavors even further.
- Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a superior taste compared to bottled juice.
Variations:
- Coconut Chicken: Add 1/2 cup of coconut milk for a creamy and tropical twist.
- Slow Cooker Version: Brown the chicken as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Spicy Chicken: Increase the chili powder and add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy Costa Rican chicken recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. It's a quick dinner idea that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the simple satisfaction of homemade cooking!