Ingredients
Before we jump into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. I recommend prepping everything ahead of time, just like my Abuela taught me. It makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
If you don’t have cayenne pepper, feel free to use chili powder as an alternative. And if red bell peppers aren’t your favorite, swap them for yellow or green ones for a different flavor profile.
Instructions
Let’s bring this dish to life! Cooking is an art, and just like my grandmother taught me, trust your senses and enjoy every moment.
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the paprika, cayenne pepper, and cumin, letting the spices bloom for about 1 minute.
- Add the coconut milk and tomato paste, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro over a bed of cooked rice.
As you cook, remember the joy of creating something delicious from scratch. It’s a journey, and each step is a part of the story you’re telling through food.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International