Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly balances spice and comfort: Spicy Chicken and Chickpeas! This Middle Eastern-inspired recipe combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with hearty chickpeas, all enveloped in a symphony of aromatic spices. In just 40 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're looking to impress at dinner or simply want a satisfying weeknight dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Dive in and discover the secrets to making this deliciously spicy dish that will leave you craving more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by patting chicken thighs dry with paper towels and cutting into bite-sized pieces. Season chicken with cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to become hot and shimmering.
- Add seasoned chicken pieces to the hot pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve a golden-brown color and crispy exterior.
- Remove chicken from the pan and set aside on a clean plate. In the same pan, add chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour drained chickpeas into the pan and stir, allowing them to get slightly crispy and heated through, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Return chicken to the pan, mixing with chickpeas and onions. Cook together for another 5-7 minutes to ensure chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve hot with rice, flatbread, or your preferred side dish. Enjoy your spicy chicken and chickpeas!
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Boneless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe as they remain juicy and tender during cooking. However, you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Allow the chicken to brown properly in the skillet without overcrowding the pan. This step is crucial for developing rich flavors and a delightful crispy texture.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce or omit it altogether.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Garnishing with fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor. Consider adding other herbs like cilantro for a different twist.
- Serve with Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, warm flatbreads, or a refreshing salad to balance the spiciness.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is great for meal prep! Cook a larger batch and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat and enjoy a quick and flavorful meal throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 120mg
