Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s surprisingly quick to make? Look no further than Fideo Con Pollo, a classic Spanish dish featuring thin noodles, tender chicken, and a rich, savory broth. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to become a family favorite. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals you can whip up without sacrificing deliciousness. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking with this simple yet satisfying recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup fideo noodles (thin Spanish noodles)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional, but adds beautiful color and flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for our delicious dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. This ensures a lovely texture and adds depth to the overall flavor profile. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the fideo noodles, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, and saffron threads (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked through and the liquid has slightly thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This quick dinner idea is perfect served hot.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a bay leaf during simmering and remove before serving.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for a little heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.
- Different Protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, chorizo, or even vegetarian crumbles for a different twist.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving for a richer texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This Fideo Con Pollo recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It's a healthy meal option perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and the variations offer endless possibilities to tailor it to your taste. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish!