One Pot Mexican Chicken

This Easy One Pot Mexican Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and rich textures in one pot. Imagine a medley of spices dancing together with juicy chicken and bright vegetables, all simmered to perfection. This recipe not only saves time—allowing you to whip up dinner in less than an hour—but also means fewer dishes to wash afterward! Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this recipe has you covered. It’s comforting, satisfying, and truly a crowd-pleaser. So, grab your pot, and let’s get cooking!

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Why This Recipe Works

This Easy One Pot Mexican Chicken stands out as a perfect medley of flavors, thanks to the harmonious combination of spices, creamy sauce, and fresh vegetables. Using just one pot not only simplifies the cooking process but also allows for a rich amalgamation of tastes that will delight your palate.

Why You’ll Love This Easy One Pot Mexican Chicken

In just under an hour, you can create a comforting and satisfying dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your dining table. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe is not only easy to follow but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 4-5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup plain flour (200 g)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 can sweet corn (about 300 g)
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, any color, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup chicken stock (made from a stock cube, 250 ml)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 cup single cream (200 ml)
• 7 oz spinach (200 g), washed
• Bunch of cilantro, chopped
• Basil, chopped
• 2 spring onions, sliced
• ½ teaspoon garlic granules
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to preference)
• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes
• ¼ teaspoon Cajun spice

Preparing the Chicken

First, dust the chicken in seasoned flour, making sure it coats evenly. This step adds flavor and helps achieve that beautiful golden color. If your chicken pieces are on the thicker side, tenderize them by placing them between greaseproof paper and gently flattening them with a rolling pin. This ensures they cook evenly.

Cooking the Chicken

Next, heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken and brown it for about 6-10 minutes on each side. This step is crucial as it locks in the juices. After golden brown, remove the chicken from the pan, leaving behind the yummy browned bits for added flavor later.

Cooking the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the sliced red onion and sweet corn to sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Scrape down any browned bits, as these will add incredible depth to your dish. Then, toss in the sliced bell pepper along with the tomato paste. Allow it all to cook together for another 5-8 minutes, letting those vibrant flavors meld.

Making the Sauce

Now comes the fun part! Pour in the single cream and chicken stock, then sprinkle in the spices. Don’t forget to squeeze in the lemon juice for that zesty kick. Give it a good stir, then allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling, return the chicken to the pan, cooking gently for about 10 minutes. This allows the chicken to finish cooking while the sauce thickens to delicious perfection.

Finishing the Dish

Once the chicken is fully cooked through, stir in the washed spinach and allow it to wilt in the sauce. This adds a lovely color and nutrition. For that final touch, garnish the chicken with diced red onion, sliced green onion, chopped cilantro, and basil. It looks as amazing as it tastes!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Easy One Pot Mexican Chicken with warm tortillas or over fluffy rice, perfect for soaking up that creamy, flavorful sauce. You can even add a side of guacamole or fresh salsa to elevate the meal. It’s sure to impress everyone at the table!

Tips for Success

• Be sure to season the flour well; it enhances the flavor of the chicken.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference—if you enjoy heat, add more chili powder or flakes!

Variations

Feel like changing it up? You can easily swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist. Adding black beans not only enhances the dish’s texture but also boosts its protein content.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Just add a splash of chicken stock to keep the creaminess intact.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for more even results.

2. What can I substitute for single cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative if desired.

3. Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level is fully adjustable; feel free to omit or increase chili powder and flakes to suit your taste.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it just before serving.

5. What sides pair well with this dish?
Consider serving it with Spanish rice, a simple green salad, or even tortilla chips.

This Easy One Pot Mexican Chicken is your new go-to dinner for its ease and delightful flavors, perfect for the whole family. Embrace the convenience of one-pot cooking, where every bite bursts with color and warmth, turning your mealtime into a festive occasion. Enjoy your culinary journey!

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