Cayenne Pepper Chicken Breast with Quinoa Side

Delicious Recipe: Chicken Breast with Cayenne Chili Pepper and Quinoa Side Dish

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

If you're looking for a healthy meal that's full of flavor and easy to prepare, I invite you to discover this recipe for chicken breast with Cayenne Chili Pepper, accompanied by a quinoa side dish. This recipe not only combines the intense flavors of spices but also the nutritional benefits of the ingredients, making it perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

History of Quinoa
Quinoa is a seed that has been used as a staple food in South America for over 3000 years. Although it is often classified as a grain, quinoa is actually a seed. Rich in protein and cholesterol-free, quinoa is an excellent choice for those looking to adopt a healthier diet. With a superior nutritional profile compared to rice, quinoa can be used as an alternative in various recipes.

Ingredients
- 1 large chicken breast
- 125 g pitted black olives
- 2 medium onions
- 1 teaspoon Cayenne Chili Pepper Kotany
- 1 teaspoon thyme Kotany
- 150 ml white wine
- 1 bay leaf
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 1 carrot
- 300 ml Cirio tomato pulp
- 1/2 cup quinoa
- 1 1/2 cups meat broth
- salt (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil

Step by Step for a Successful Recipe

1. Preparing the Chicken Breast
Start by filleting the chicken breast. This will make it easier to cook and allow the spices to penetrate better. Season it with Cayenne Chili Pepper and a little salt, then refrigerate for 30 minutes. This marination will enhance the flavors and make the meat juicier.

2. Chopping the Vegetables
Peel the onions and chop them finely. The carrot, on the other hand, should be peeled and grated with small holes. These vegetables will add sweetness and texture to your dish.

3. Heating the Oil
In a non-stick pan, add the two tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the onion and carrot. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

4. Adding the Chicken Breast
Add the filleted chicken breast to the pan, then pour in the white wine. The wine will add depth to the flavors and help tenderize the meat. Break the bay leaf into pieces and add it to the pan along with the chopped thyme. Don’t forget to season with salt and Cayenne pepper to taste.

5. Cooking on Low Heat
Cover the pan and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to combine and the chicken breast to become juicy. During this time, you can cut the olives in half and add them to the pan.

6. Adding the Tomato Pulp
Once the chicken breast is cooked, add the tomato pulp and let it simmer for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

7. Preparing the Quinoa
While the chicken breast is cooking, it’s time to take care of the quinoa. Rinse the quinoa in a few cold waters to remove the saponins that can give a bitter taste. In a pot, add half a cup of quinoa and one and a half cups of meat broth. If you want to enhance the flavor of the quinoa, use chicken or vegetable broth. It brings a rich taste and a more intense aroma. Cook the quinoa on low heat, covered, for 15 minutes or until it has absorbed all the broth. If necessary, add a little hot broth during cooking.

8. Finalizing the Dish
When the quinoa is ready, add a little chopped parsley for a touch of freshness. Serve the chicken breast with tomato sauce and olives alongside fluffy quinoa. You can garnish the plate as you wish, perhaps with lemon slices or a few parsley leaves.

Serving Suggestions
This recipe pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables. Also, for a more festive meal, you can accompany the dish with a glass of dry white wine, which will highlight the flavors of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use another type of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe also works great with turkey breast or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

- What can I do if I don’t have white wine?
You can replace the wine with water or meat broth, but the wine adds a distinct taste that enriches the dish.

- Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! You can prepare the chicken breast and quinoa in advance, and they keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, while quinoa provides all essential amino acids, fiber, and minerals such as magnesium and iron. A serving has about 450 calories, making it a suitable choice for a balanced meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you are ready to try this fantastic recipe for chicken breast with Cayenne Chili Pepper and quinoa! Enjoy your meal!