The Central Valley Chicken recipe is a hearty, comforting dish that captures the essence of homestyle cooking. With tender chicken pieces seared until golden, then simmered in a savory tomato-based sauce with bell peppers, onions, and aromatic spices, this one-pan meal is as flavorful as it is simple. Perfect for busy weeknights, this skillet chicken brings bold flavors to your table with minimal effort.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Families looking for a quick yet satisfying dinner.
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Home cooks who enjoy flavorful, comforting meals without complicated steps.
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Meal preppers who want a versatile chicken dish that reheats well.
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Anyone craving bold, homestyle flavors that taste like they’ve been simmering all day.
Why It’s Great
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One-pan recipe – Easy cleanup and minimal hassle.
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Flavor-packed – A balance of smoky, earthy spices with a rich tomato sauce.
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Versatile – Works with chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks.
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Customizable – Adjust heat, add veggies, or make the sauce thicker to your liking.
Ingredients
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2 lbs fresh chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks)
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 onion, diced
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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1 cup chicken broth
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp dried oregano
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
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Mixing bowl for marinating
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Cutting board and sharp knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep & Sear the Chicken
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Season chicken with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika.
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Marinate for at least 30 minutes (overnight for deeper flavor).
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Sear chicken until golden brown on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. Build the Sauce
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In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until soft and fragrant.
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Stir in tomato sauce, chicken broth, and oregano.
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Let simmer for a couple of minutes to meld flavors.
3. Simmer & Cook
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Return chicken to skillet, coating pieces in sauce.
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Cover and simmer on low heat for 20–25 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Garnish & Serve
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Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for color and freshness.
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Serve with rice, tortillas, or warm crusty bread.
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Place cooled chicken and sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze up to 2 months.
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Reheating Tip: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Tips for Success
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Marinate longer for bolder flavor.
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Don’t rush browning – it creates the base of your sauce.
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For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last few minutes.
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Add heat with hot sauce or diced jalapeños if you like it spicy.
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes! Boneless thighs or breasts work well—just adjust cooking time slightly.
Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep.
What sides go best with Central Valley Chicken?
It pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, tortillas, or even pasta.
Can I substitute the tomato sauce?
Yes, crushed tomatoes or even a can of diced tomatoes can be used for a chunkier sauce.
Conclusion
The Central Valley Chicken recipe is proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients to create a hearty, flavorful dish. With its tender chicken, savory sauce, and colorful peppers, this one-pan wonder is perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining. Make it once, and it’s bound to become a staple in your weeknight rotation.
