Are you looking for a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This Red Onion Chicken recipe is perfect for busy cooks who crave delicious homemade meals without spending hours in the kitchen. It's packed with fresh flavors, and the beautiful caramelized onions add a touch of elegance to this simple dish. This recipe is a fantastic example of how quick dinner ideas can also be healthy meals and truly delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 large red onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prep the Onions: Start by thinly slicing the red onions. The thinner the slices, the quicker they'll caramelize.
- Sauté the Onions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced red onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. This step is key to the dish's amazing flavor – don't rush it!
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its aroma.
- Simmer and Glaze: Pour in the chicken broth and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens. The balsamic vinegar adds a lovely sweetness and tang.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This dish is wonderful served over rice, quinoa, or pasta.
Cooking Tips for the Best Red Onion Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a lot of chicken, cook it in batches to ensure it browns properly.
- Taste and adjust: Seasoning is key! Taste the dish before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or balsamic vinegar to your liking.
- Use good quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste. Fresh herbs make a noticeable difference.
- Make it ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated. The flavors actually deepen overnight!
Variations:
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer sauce.
- Lemon zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright citrus note.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like oregano or marjoram.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and balanced meal. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion size. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming 4 servings) is approximately:
- Calories: 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy red onion chicken recipe is a perfect example of simple, delicious, and healthy food recipes. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas, and a great way to enjoy homemade cooking without the fuss. It’s a delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.