Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that's both easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Hey Mami Chicken recipe! This vibrant dish is inspired by the classic flavors of Latin American cuisine, delivering a satisfying and healthy meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty sauce that will have you coming back for seconds. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs.
Ingredients: What You'll Need for this Delicious Dish
This recipe serves 4 and requires readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a quick dinner idea.
- 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
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or tortillas, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions: Let's Cook!
This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills, making it one of the best recipes for busy weeknights.
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken cubes with 1 tsp of salt, 1/2 tsp of black pepper, 1/2 tbsp of chili powder, and 1/4 tsp of cumin. Set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (both cans), chicken broth, cilantro, lime juice, remaining chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). 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.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over cooked rice or with warm tortillas.
Tips and Variations: Elevate Your Hey Mami Chicken
- Spice it Up: For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Make it a Slow Cooker Meal: 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.
- Use different proteins: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, beef or pork for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Hey Mami Chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!