Central Valley Chicken

This Central Valley Chicken recipe is a comforting and flavorful skillet meal inspired by hearty homestyle cooking. Tender chicken pieces are seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices, seared to golden perfection, and then simmered in a rich, savory tomato sauce with bell peppers and onions. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pan dish that is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Central Valley Chicken

Ingredients:

How To Make Central Valley Chicken:

1. Prep & Sear Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and brown it on all sides until golden and crispy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and sliced bell peppers until they are soft and fragrant. Add the tomato sauce, chicken broth, and a pinch of oregano to the skillet to create a rich, flavorful sauce.
3. Simmer & Cook: Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, making sure they are coated with the sauce. Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer over low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until it is cooked through and tender.
4. Garnish & Serve: Once the chicken is fully cooked, garnish it with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness and color. Serve hot with rice, tortillas, or your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Success

• Marinate for Flavor: For a deeper flavor profile, marinate the chicken overnight in the seasonings to allow the spices to penetrate the meat fully.
• Don’t Rush Browning: Taking the time to sear the chicken properly will enhance its texture and taste, building a great flavor base for the sauce.
• Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the chicken uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid.
• Add a Spicy Kick: Consider adding a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy twist.