Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal? Look no further! This healthy ground chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and will become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Packed with protein and bursting with fresh flavors, it’s a delicious dish the whole family will adore. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and best recipes that don’t compromise on taste or nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and bell pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Brown the chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
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Simmer the flavors: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, 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 flavors have melded and the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. This healthy ground chicken recipe is delicious on its own or served over rice, quinoa, or with a side of your favorite vegetables.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked ground chicken can become dry and tough. Make sure to cook it until it's no longer pink, but avoid overcooking.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms, to make this dish even more nutritious and flavorful.
Variations:
- Taco Night: Add taco seasoning instead of chili powder and cumin. Top with shredded cheese, salsa, and sour cream for a flavorful taco-inspired meal.
- Mediterranean Twist: Substitute the chili powder and cumin with oregano and thyme. Add chopped Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired dish.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This healthy ground chicken recipe offers a simple yet satisfying meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to your preferences, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy!