Are you craving a flavorful and easy-to-make dinner that's both satisfying and surprisingly healthy? Look no further! This Thousand Island Chicken recipe is a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, impressing guests, or simply enjoying a delicious homemade meal. This recipe balances the creamy tang of Thousand Island dressing with juicy chicken, creating a truly unforgettable taste. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing (preferably homemade for best flavor!)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional, adds a nice pop of color and freshness)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Add the cubed chicken and toss gently to coat evenly. This helps create a crispy exterior.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken cubes). Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
Bring it Together:
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Add the chopped celery, red onion, and green bell pepper (if using) to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are softened slightly.
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Pour the Thousand Island dressing over the chicken and vegetables. Stir gently to combine and coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.
Tips for the Best Thousand Island Chicken:
- Homemade Thousand Island: For an extra delicious twist, try making your own Thousand Island dressing! It’s surprisingly easy and the flavor difference is significant. Numerous recipes are available online.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
- Veggie Variety: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini would all be delicious additions.
- Serve it Right: This dish is fantastic served over rice, mashed potatoes, or even a bed of fresh greens for a lighter meal.
Variations:
- BBQ Chicken: Replace the Thousand Island dressing with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky and sweet variation.
- Creamy Ranch Chicken: Substitute Ranch dressing for a richer, more herbaceous flavor profile.
- Garlic Lover's Delight: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet along with the vegetables for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Thousand Island Chicken recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and easy recipes perfect for busy weeknights. It's a healthy meal option packed with flavor that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!