Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under an hour? Look no further! This Green Chili Chicken Stew is a delicious and healthy dish perfect for a busy weeknight. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant green chilies, and hearty vegetables, this recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on taste. It’s the perfect blend of homemade cooking and quick dinner ideas, making it a winner for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 4-6 green chilies, roughly chopped (adjust to your spice preference – serrano or jalapeño work well)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked rice or cornbread, for serving
Instructions:
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Sear the Chicken: Heat 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.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion and bell pepper to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and green chilies and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Stew: Return the chicken to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded.
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Garnish and Serve: Stir in the cilantro. Serve hot over cooked rice or with a side of cornbread.
Tips for the Best Green Chili Chicken Stew:
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chilies to control the heat. Start with fewer and add more if you prefer a spicier stew.
- Chicken Choice: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs can also be used for extra richness and flavor. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, zucchini, or carrots.
- Make it Thicker: If you prefer a thicker stew, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes of cooking to reduce the liquid.
- Slow Cooker Option: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Green Chili Chicken Stew is a delicious and healthy addition to your weekly meal plan. It’s a fantastic example of how easy it can be to create delicious dishes using simple ingredients and straightforward techniques. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal, perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. The recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences, making it a versatile and enjoyable option for any occasion. From quick weeknight dinners to satisfying weekend meals, this green chili chicken stew is sure to become a family favorite.