Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Chicken Kasha recipe is a perfect example of comfort food done right. It's a hearty, flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Chicken Kasha, a delightful blend of tender chicken and nutty buckwheat groats, offers a satisfying and wholesome eating experience. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike, promising a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup buckwheat groats (kasha)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the Vegetables and Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Toast the Buckwheat: Add the buckwheat groats to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the kasha.
-
Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir in the thyme and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the buckwheat is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Fluff the kasha with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect on its own, but a side salad would complement it beautifully.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Kasha:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Cook until it's just cooked through.
- Use good quality chicken broth: The flavor of the broth will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish.
- Adjust seasoning to your liking: Taste the kasha before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs as needed.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving for extra richness.
Variations:
- Mushroom Chicken Kasha: Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms to the pot along with the onions, carrots, and celery.
- Spicy Chicken Kasha: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
- Vegetarian Kasha: Omit the chicken and add 1 cup of cooked lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
This simple yet satisfying Chicken Kasha recipe is a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It’s a delicious and wholesome dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!