Chicken with peanuts

Chicken with Peanuts – A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Do you want to impress your family or friends with a quick, delicious, and flavorful meal? The Chicken with Peanuts recipe is the perfect solution! This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken with the crunchiness of peanuts, resulting in a dish that will delight all your senses. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be ready in about 30 minutes. Let’s get started!

Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 1 boneless chicken breast (about 500 g)
- 1-2 onions (depending on their size, a large onion is ideal)
- 1 can of crushed tomatoes in juice (about 400 g)
- A small bag of salted peanuts in their shells (about 100 g, to be shelled)
- Salt, pepper (to taste)
- Oil for frying the chicken (sunflower or olive oil)
- Optional spices: pepper, chili, hot/sweet paprika
- 1 cup of pre-cooked long-grain rice (about 200 g)

Brief History
Chicken with peanuts is a recipe with diverse origins, inspired by traditional dishes where meat harmoniously combines with different types of nuts or seeds. This combination not only adds texture but also a flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Peanuts, rich in nutrients, provide a healthy dose of good fats and proteins, making this dish a nutritious choice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Rice: Start by boiling the rice. Rinse the rice well under cold water to remove excess starch, then add it to a pot of boiling salted water. You can add a small piece of butter for extra flavor. Cook the rice according to the package instructions, usually between 10-15 minutes.

2. Preparing the Chicken: Meanwhile, cut the chicken breast into small cubes, about 2-3 cm. These cubes will cook evenly and quickly. In a large frying pan, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it well. If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a clove of garlic cut in half to the hot oil to extract its aromas.

3. Frying the Chicken: When the oil is hot, add the chicken cubes and fry them until golden on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of frying. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

4. Adding the Onion: In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes or until it becomes translucent. The onion will add a sweet flavor to the dish.

5. Combining the Ingredients: Add the can of crushed tomatoes in juice to the pan, stirring gently. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, covering the pan with a lid. This step will allow the flavors to meld. Now add the fried chicken back into the pan.

6. Seasoning: Depending on your preferences, season with salt, pepper, and if you like spicy food, add a little chili or hot paprika. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.

7. Finishing the Dish: When the chicken is well cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Finally, add the shelled peanuts and stir gently to incorporate them into the dish.

8. Serving: Serve the Chicken with Peanuts over a bed of boiled rice. You can garnish with fresh parsley leaves or a few whole peanuts for a more attractive presentation.

Suggestions and Variations
- For a vegetarian version: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh, which can be just as delicious and protein-rich.
- Adding vegetables: You can enrich the recipe with vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers to add color and nutrients.
- Flavoring the rice: Instead of plain water, you can use chicken or vegetable broth to give the rice a deeper flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes, you can also try other nuts, such as pistachios or cashews, for a different texture.

2. How can I make the dish less spicy?
Reduce the amount of chili or hot paprika, or you can omit these ingredients entirely.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
I recommend a dry white wine or a fresh lemonade, which will balance the intense flavors of the food.

4. What are the nutritional benefits of this recipe?
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while peanuts provide healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a balanced meal.

Conclusion
Chicken with Peanuts is a versatile and quick recipe, perfect for evenings when you want to enjoy a tasty meal without too much effort. With its combination of flavors and textures, this dish will surely become a favorite in your home. Give it a try and don’t hesitate to put your personal touch on it! Enjoy your meal!