Hearty One Pot Chicken Dinner They’ll Cherish
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- Large pot with lid
INGREDIENTS
- 28 ounces/800 grams frozen peas
- Oil for frying
- Chicken balls, mix in a bowl:
- 1.1 pound/500 grams ground chicken
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup parsley, chopped
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 egg
- 3 garlic cloves, pressed
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Baharat
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
Sauce:
- 4 onions, thinly sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, sliced
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon Baharat
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
INSTRUCTIONS
- Take a small handful of the chicken mixture and gently shape it into a round patty using your hands. Each patty should be about the size of your palm.
- In a wide pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Carefully place the patties in the pan. Let the patties cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown. Use a spatula to flip them over gently. Once both sides are golden, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
- Pour 2-3 tablespoons of oil and add the onions. Saute until the onions turn soft and golden. Add the celery and garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the celery softens and the garlic becomes fragrant. Sprinkle in the spices and stir well to coat the vegetables. Then, add the frozen peas and enough water to just cover everything in the pot. Stir again and let it cook until the liquid starts to boil, about 3-5 minutes.
- Once the sauce is boiling, carefully place the cooked patties into the pot. Make sure they are mostly covered by the sauce. Put a lid on the pot, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let the patties simmer in the sauce for about 30 minutes. This will help them absorb the flavors.
- Remove the lid and sprinkle cilantro over the patties and sauce. Stir gently to mix the cilantro in. Let everything cook together for another 5 minutes, allowing the cilantro to release its flavor.
MY NOTES
FAQ
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with other proteins in this one pot recipe. Turkey, pork, or beef are popular alternatives, offering similar cooking times and textures. For a leaner option, ground turkey or pork works well, while beef adds a richer flavor. Seafood like shrimp or firm fish can also be used, though you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider tofu, tempeh, or beans, which can absorb the flavors of the sauce and spices. Just be mindful of cooking times to ensure the protein is tender and flavorful.
What type of pot is best for this one pot chicken dinner?
The best pot for cooking a one pot chicken dinner is a large, heavy-bottomed pot like a Dutch oven or a deep sauté pan with a lid. A Dutch oven, made of cast iron, provides even heat distribution and retains warmth, ensuring the chicken cooks thoroughly without burning. A deep sauté pan with a heavy bottom also works well, offering enough space to brown the chicken and cook the other ingredients evenly. Both options allow you to brown, sauté, and simmer the ingredients in the same pot, making cleanup easier and enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Can I add vegetables to the one pot chicken dinner?
Yes, adding vegetables to a one pot chicken dinner is a great idea and enhances both flavor and nutrition. Vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, onions, and celery complement the chicken well and cook alongside it, absorbing the flavors of the dish. Add hearty vegetables like potatoes and carrots early in the cooking process, as they take longer to cook. Quick-cooking vegetables, such as bell peppers and spinach, should be added towards the end to prevent overcooking. This approach creates a balanced, flavorful meal with a variety of textures and nutrients, all cooked together in one pot.
Is this one pot chicken dinner suitable for meal prep or leftovers?
Yes, this one pot chicken dinner is ideal for meal prep and leftovers. Its flavors often improve after a day or two, as the ingredients have more time to meld together. The dish can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in individual containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Meal prepping with this recipe is convenient and ensures you have a hearty, nutritious meal ready to enjoy throughout the week.
What side dishes pair well with one pot chicken dinner?
Several side dishes complement a one pot chicken dinner beautifully. For a balanced meal, consider serving it with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts. A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a light contrast. For a heartier option, try garlic bread, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce. Quinoa or couscous can also be excellent choices, providing a slightly nutty flavor and texture. These sides enhance the meal’s variety, add nutritional value, and help round out the dining experience.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out while cooking?
To prevent chicken from drying out while cooking, start by using bone-in, skin-on cuts, which retain moisture better than boneless, skinless pieces. Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Adding liquid to the pot, such as broth or wine, helps keep the chicken moist. Cover the pot while simmering to retain steam and prevent the meat from drying out. You can also marinate the chicken beforehand or use a cooking method like braising, which helps the meat stay tender and juicy throughout the cooking process.
Can I make this one pot chicken dinner in advance?
Yes, you can make this recipe in advance and reheat it later. Prepare the dish fully and allow it to cool before transferring it to airtight containers. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This approach makes meal planning easy and ensures you have a ready-to-eat, flavorful meal available whenever needed.
