ADVERTISEMENT
Option 1: Oven Method
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, and cumin. If you have time, let the chicken sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the seasoning. - Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. You don’t need to cook them all the way through—just get a nice sear on both sides. - Add the Vegetables and Liquid:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, and bring to a simmer. - Bake:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C). - Finish the Dish:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk, mixing until the sauce is creamy and well combined. If you want a thicker sauce, simmer on the stove for an additional 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Option 2: Slow Cooker Method
- Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, and cumin. No need to sear the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker. - Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes (with juice), and chicken broth. Stir to combine. - Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken will become very tender and infused with the flavors of the sauce. - Finish the Dish:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and cook for an additional 10 minutes on low to allow the sauce to thicken. - Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve over rice, pasta, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips for Success:
- Chicken Thighs for Extra Flavor: While chicken breasts are lean, chicken thighs are more flavorful and tend to stay juicier, making them an excellent option for this recipe.
- Customize the Sauce: You can experiment with the flavor of the sauce by adding different herbs and spices. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, a splash of lime juice for tang, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
- Add Vegetables: For a more well-rounded dish, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the slow cooker or skillet. These vegetables will cook down and infuse the sauce with even more flavor.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix.
Serving Suggestions:
- Over Rice: Serve this dish over steamed white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The rice will soak up all the flavorful sauce.
- With Pasta: For a comforting twist, serve the chicken and sauce over your favorite pasta—penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti all work well.
- On a Salad: For a lighter meal, serve the chicken on a bed of greens or a mixed vegetable salad. The creamy sauce will pair beautifully with fresh veggies.
Why This Recipe Works:
This recipe is so delicious because it combines tender, juicy chicken with a flavorful, creamy sauce that’s packed with aromatic spices and savory broth. What makes it even better is its versatility. Whether you prefer to let the slow cooker work its magic or need a quicker, oven-baked version, both methods yield incredible results. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal effort, and can be customized with ingredients you love.
With simple, easy-to-find ingredients and two different cooking methods, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re craving something comforting yet sophisticated.
So next time you’re in the mood for a meal that’s both tasty and flexible, remember this recipe! Whether you go for the oven method or the slow cooker method, it’s a surefire way to bring delicious comfort to your dinner table. Enjoy!
ADVERTISEMENT