Do you remember the thrill of opening a new Ohio Art Co. Etch A Sketch? That satisfying scratch, the magical creation of lines and shapes? This recipe, inspired by the iconic toy, is all about simple, clean flavors that build into something unexpectedly delicious. It's a quick dinner idea, a healthy meal, and a fun foray into homemade cooking. Get ready for a nostalgic culinary adventure that’s as satisfying as drawing a perfect circle!
Ingredients:
This recipe is designed to be flexible, so feel free to adjust quantities based on your preferences and the number of servings.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red bell pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. This helps to develop flavor and create a nice texture.
Step 3: Simmer the Stew: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), black beans, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 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 flavors have melded.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with lime wedges. The bright acidity of the lime cuts through the richness of the stew beautifully.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Dish:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lime juice, chili powder, and cumin for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier dish.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with 1 (15 ounce) can of chickpeas or firm tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as corn, zucchini, or carrots.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe is a great example of a healthy meal, providing a good source of protein and fiber. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate per serving would be approximately:
- Calories: 300-350
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 8-10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it accessible to even beginner cooks, while the delicious flavors will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Enjoy your nostalgic culinary creation!