Fiesta Chicken

The moment I hear the words Fiesta Chicken, my taste buds begin to dance! This vibrant dish is a celebration of flavors that transports me straight to sunny summer afternoons filled with laughter and good company. I can vividly recall the first time I made this recipe; it was during a backyard barbecue with friends. The aroma of sizzling chicken and spices filled the air, enticing everyone to gather around the grill. As we savored each bite, the lively blend of ingredients sparked conversations and laughter, making it a cherished memory. You see, Fiesta Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together.

Shopping List for Fiesta Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious Fiesta Chicken. Each component plays a role in crafting the perfect balance of flavors. From the succulent chicken to the colorful bell peppers, these ingredients work harmoniously together. Here’s what you need:

• 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil – A healthy fat that adds richness.
• 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – The heart of the dish, providing protein.
• 1/2 medium red onion, diced – For sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced – A must-have for aromatic flair.
• 1 jalapeño, chopped (seeds removed) – Adds a delightful kick.
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder – For extra oniony goodness.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons of smoked paprika – Infuses a rich, smoky flavor.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons of dried oregano – A classic herb that enhances flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon of cumin – Provides an earthy warmth.
• 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt (to taste) – Essential for seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (to taste) – For those who love heat.
• 1 medium red bell pepper, cored and chopped – Adds sweetness and color.
• 1 medium green bell pepper, cored and chopped – For a fresh crunch.
• 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, rinsed and drained – A fantastic source of fiber.
• 1 can (15 oz) of fire-roasted diced tomatoes (in their juices) – Brings a tangy flavor and moisture.
• 1 1/2 cups of instant brown rice – A hearty base to soak up flavors.
• 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth – Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 cup of freshly grated Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar cheese) – For a creamy finish.
• Chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, salsa, corn chips, sour cream – Optional toppings for extra flavor.

How to Make Fiesta Chicken

Cooking Fiesta Chicken is straightforward and fun! Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the process!

1. First, place a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to heat up until it shimmers but isn’t smoking. This is an essential step to ensure your chicken sears nicely.

2. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken, red onion, garlic, jalapeño, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Sauté, stirring frequently for about three minutes, until the chicken begins to brown. You’re looking for a nice golden color to develop, which means the flavors are starting to meld.

3. After the chicken browns, it’s time to add the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, black beans, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and rice. Stir everything together until well combined. The colors should be vibrant, creating a feast for the eyes!

4. Next, pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir to ensure it is evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens; the broth adds moisture and flavor.

5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about five minutes. During this time, the chicken should be fully cooked, and the rice will absorb the delicious flavors.

6. Once the time is up, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it could use a little more salt or spice, go ahead and sprinkle that in. You want it to be perfect!

7. Remove the skillet from heat but leave it covered for another five minutes. This resting time allows the liquid to be fully absorbed and results in a more flavorful dish.

8. Finally, sprinkle the cheese over the top and any additional toppings you desire, such as cilantro, avocado, salsa, corn chips, or sour cream. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Fiesta Chicken!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you. Here are some great tips to enhance your Fiesta Chicken experience:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked dish in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh salad or tortilla chips to complement the flavors.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the dish.
• Veggie variations: Feel free to add other veggies like zucchini or corn to mix things up!

Pairing Suggestions for Fiesta Chicken

Serving Fiesta Chicken is all about creating a complete meal experience. Here are some fantastic pairing suggestions to elevate your dining:

• Serve with a fresh salad: A light salad with avocado, lime, and cilantro can balance the richness of the dish.
• Rice alternatives: Try serving it over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Perfect for gatherings: This dish is great for potlucks and casual get-togethers, allowing guests to serve themselves.
• Side of chips: Accompany it with crispy tortilla chips for added crunch and dipping.
• Seasonal sides: In summer, pair it with grilled corn on the cob; in winter, serve with roasted vegetables.
• Garnish options: Top with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for a finishing touch.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Fiesta Chicken is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of fresh ingredients and spices creates a delightful meal that everyone will love. I encourage you to give it a try; it’s not only easy to prepare but also a wonderful way to bring joy to your dining table. You’ll find that this dish quickly becomes a favorite in your household!

Fiesta Chicken

The ultimate comfort food packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Fiesta Chicken is an easy weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken, colorful veggies, and zesty spices. Perfect for family gatherings or a simple meal at home!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces
• 1/2 medium red onion diced
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 jalapeño chopped – seeds and veins discarded
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or to taste
• 1 medium red bell pepper cored and chopped
• 1 medium green bell pepper cored and chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes in their juices
• 1 1/2 cups instant brown rice please use this type of rice specifically for best results
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup freshly grated Mexican blend cheese or cheddar cheese
• 1 chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 diced avocado
• 1 salsa
• 1 corn chips
• 1 sour cream

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Grater
• Saucepan
• Baking Sheet
• Blender
• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. First, place a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to heat up until it shimmers but isn’t smoking. This is an essential step to ensure your chicken sears nicely.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken, red onion, garlic, jalapeño, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Sauté, stirring frequently for about three minutes, until the chicken begins to brown. You’re looking for a nice golden color to develop, which means the flavors are starting to meld.
3. After the chicken browns, it’s time to add the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, black beans, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and rice. Stir everything together until well combined. The colors should be vibrant, creating a feast for the eyes!
4. Next, pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir to ensure it is evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens; the broth adds moisture and flavor.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about five minutes. During this time, the chicken should be fully cooked, and the rice will absorb the delicious flavors.
6. Once the time is up, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it could use a little more salt or spice, go ahead and sprinkle that in. You want it to be perfect!
7. Remove the skillet from heat but leave it covered for another five minutes. This resting time allows the liquid to be fully absorbed and results in a more flavorful dish.
8. Finally, sprinkle the cheese over the top and any additional toppings you desire, such as cilantro, avocado, salsa, corn chips, or sour cream. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Fiesta Chicken!

Notes

• Tip 1: If you want to use regular long-grain white rice, cook it separately according to the package directions and stir it in at the end.
• Tip 2: Save time by using leftover rotisserie chicken or whatever cooked chicken you already have in the fridge.
• Tip 3: Always use a non-stick skillet because it makes cleanup super fast and easy when everyone is already full and ready to relax.
• Tip 4: Sometimes skip chopping and just use shredded or ground chicken to make it even easier.
• Tip 5: When you know you’ll be busy, prep all the veggies and chicken the night before, so you can just throw everything together the next day.

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Meet Adele Mercer

Every meal deserves a spectacular finish, whether it is a savory main or a sweet treat. I enjoy the entire creative cycle, from kneading dough to editing the final photos. I developed this recipe to be approachable for home cooks while ensuring it delivers the high-quality results you expect.