Central Valley Chicken

Introduction

Central Valley Chicken is a flavorful, home-style dish inspired by the agricultural heart of California,
where fresh produce and simple, hearty cooking come together beautifully. This recipe combines tender chicken
with a savory blend of spices, vegetables, and herbs, creating a warm and comforting meal that’s perfect
for weeknights or family gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried oregano

For the Sauce & Vegetables:

• 1 small onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
• 2 cups baby spinach (optional)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes or diced tomatoes
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. Season the chicken by rubbing it with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, and oregano.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken on both sides until golden, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened.
4. Stir in tomatoes, lemon juice, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Place chicken back into the skillet. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C).
6. Stir in spinach (optional) and cook 1–2 minutes until wilted.
7. Serve hot with vegetables and sauce spooned over the top.

Description

Central Valley Chicken is a rustic, veggie-packed skillet dinner with bold seasoning and a vibrant tomato-based sauce.
The dish is balanced with the brightness of lemon, the depth of sautéed vegetables, and the tenderness of slow-simmered
chicken. It pairs perfectly with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Tips

• Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Make it creamy by stirring in ¼ cup heavy cream at the end.
• Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or potatoes.
• This dish reheats well for meal prep.

Correction

• If the sauce is too acidic, add 1–2 teaspoons of sugar or extra butter to balance it.
• If the sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken.

Enjoy

Serve your Central Valley Chicken warm and enjoy a comforting, colorful, and deeply satisfying dish
that brings farm-fresh flavors straight to your table!