Are you craving a delicious, healthy meal that's quick to prepare and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This Spot-On Tango recipe combines tender chicken with vibrant black beans, creating a symphony of taste that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. It’s one of those easy recipes that even beginner cooks can master, resulting in a truly delicious dish. This recipe provides a healthy meal option packed with protein and fiber, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
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Sizzle the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Veggies: Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Spice it Up: Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This step helps to bloom the spices, releasing their full flavor.
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Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. 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 sauce has thickened slightly.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with lime wedges for a zesty finish. This homemade cooking creation is perfect served with rice, quinoa, or tortilla chips.
Tips for Tango Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will ensure that the chicken browns properly and doesn't steam. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it entirely.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this recipe, such as corn, zucchini, or carrots.
- Make it a slow cooker meal: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Simply brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations:
- Spicy Tango: Add a diced jalapeño pepper along with the onion and bell pepper for extra heat.
- Creamy Tango: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamier texture.
- Southwestern Tango: Add a can of drained corn and some chopped green chilies for a southwestern twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30g
This Spot-On Tango recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy meals don't have to be boring. It’s a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can whip up quickly, proving that homemade cooking can be both satisfying and straightforward. Enjoy!