Are you ready to transform an ordinary weeknight dinner into a flavor explosion? This Chicken with Peas and Cilantro recipe is about to become your new culinary obsession! Imagine tender, perfectly seared chicken breasts infused with aromatic cumin, nestled alongside bright green peas, and crowned with fresh, zesty cilantro. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that will have your family begging for seconds and your dinner guests wondering if you've secretly trained as a professional chef.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove chicken breasts from refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels to ensure even cooking and better seasoning absorption.
- Season chicken breasts evenly on both sides with salt, pepper, and cumin, gently pressing the spices into the meat to enhance flavor penetration.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring the pan is hot before adding chicken to create a nice golden-brown sear.
- Place seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet and cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on the first side, allowing a crisp, golden crust to form.
- Flip chicken breasts and reduce heat to medium, cooking for an additional 5-6 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add frozen peas to the skillet around the chicken, allowing them to heat through and absorb the cooking juices.
- Remove skillet from heat and let chicken rest for 3-4 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the chicken and peas just before serving to preserve its vibrant flavor and color.
- Slice chicken breasts and plate, garnishing with additional cilantro if desired, and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that seals in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest after cooking to redistribute juices, ensuring each bite is incredibly tender and juicy.
- For extra flavor, try toasting the cumin briefly in the pan before adding the chicken to enhance its nutty, warm notes.
- Use fresh, high-quality cilantro and chop it just before serving to maintain its bright, fresh flavor and vibrant green color.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can use skinless chicken breasts and a non-stick pan with minimal oil.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 140mg
