Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that transports you straight to the sun-drenched streets of Havana? Then look no further! This Versailles Cuban Chicken recipe is your ticket to a delicious and authentic Cuban culinary experience, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or a show-stopping meal for friends. Get ready to savor the juicy, citrusy, and incredibly aromatic flavors of this classic Cuban dish!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step helps to develop a deeper flavor.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, orange juice, and lime juice. Stir in the cumin, oregano, coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over a bed of fluffy white rice. The vibrant colors and irresistible aroma will make this a dinner everyone will remember.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cuban Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken browns properly and doesn't steam.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- Use bone-in chicken: For a richer flavor, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! Prepare it ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving.
Variations:
- Add some sweetness: A touch of brown sugar or honey can add a lovely depth of sweetness to the sauce.
- Include olives: A handful of green olives adds a briny element that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- Spice it up: For a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño pepper along with the other vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Versailles Cuban Chicken recipe is a testament to the simple beauty of authentic Cuban cuisine. It's a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the taste of Havana!