This Easy Pink Señorita Chicken is a fun and tasty dish with a lovely pink color! It features chicken cooked in a creamy sauce with tomatoes and spices, making it super flavorful.
The best part? It only takes a few steps to whip up. I love serving it with rice or tortillas to soak up all that yummy sauce. Trust me, everyone’s going to want seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts here as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great alternative! Just adjust cooking time slightly since they may take a bit longer.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is my go-to for cooking this dish, but you can also use vegetable oil or even butter for a richer flavor. If you want to cut calories, you could replace some oil with a smaller amount of broth or cooking spray.
Heavy Cream or Sour Cream: Heavy cream makes for a rich sauce, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt or light sour cream works well too. Just be mindful not to overheat, as yogurt can curdle.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add sweetness and moisture, but feel free to use fresh tomatoes if they’re in season! Just chop them up fine. Salsa is also a fun twist if you want more flavor.
How Do You Make the Sauce Creamy and Delicious?
The creamy pink sauce is what makes this dish shine! Here’s how to perfect it:
- Saute the onions and garlic until they’re soft; this builds the flavor base.
- When adding the cream or sour cream, lower the heat to prevent it from curdling. Gently fold it in for a smooth texture.
- Taste and tweak! Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings like salt and pepper to suit your preference. A splash of lime juice can add brightness.
- Let the chicken simmer a bit in the sauce to meld the flavors together. This step is crucial for juicy, flavorful chicken!
By taking care during these steps, you’ll end up with a delicious and creamy Pink Señorita Chicken that everyone will love!
Easy Pink Señorita Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained) or tomato salsa
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a mild kick)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep the ingredients and 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of about 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick and delightful weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
First, take your chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper. This will give them a tasty base flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3 minutes, or until it’s soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—yum!
4. Make the Sauce:
Now, stir in the diced tomatoes (or salsa), chicken broth, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder (if using). Allow the mixture to cook for 3-4 minutes so the flavors can blend together nicely.
5. Add Cream:
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream or sour cream. This creates a creamy pink sauce. Be sure to taste and add more salt and pepper if needed!
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some of that delicious sauce over them, and let them simmer for another 3-5 minutes. This step helps the chicken soak up all the lovely flavors.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish it off by garnishing with chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve the chicken with lime wedges on the side. It pairs beautifully with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delightful Pink Señorita Chicken!
Delicious and full of flavor, this dish is sure to impress!
FAQ for Easy Pink Señorita Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or by submerging it in cold water. Pat it dry before seasoning to ensure it cooks evenly and retains moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or light sour cream. Just remember to add it at a lower heat to prevent curdling, stirring gently to combine for a smooth sauce.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce’s consistency if needed.
What Sides Go Well With Pink Señorita Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables or quinoa for a nutritious and delicious meal!
