Spicy Baked Chicken with Onions and Green Peas

Enjoy a delicious slow-cooked spicy chicken breast fillet with onions, garlic, green peas, and peppers, marinated in a tangy vinegar and orange juice infusion.

Spicy Baked Chicken with Onions and Green Peas
Baked Special Occasion Chicken

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour and 55 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Chicken breast is one of the most commonly used parts of the chicken as the main ingredient. One of the main reasons why people prefer chicken breast over other parts is that it's a great source of lean protein. Besides being protein-dense, chicken breast is very versatile in terms of cooking methods. It's very accessible and affordable, and it also offers a wide range of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B6, niacin, selenium, and phosphorus. When consumed in moderation, it can even aid in weight loss.

New Orchards offers multiple recipes that use chicken as the main ingredient, and this recipe is one of them. This particular method of cooking adds extra ingredients like green peas and mushrooms, which are a bit more than what we normally use when baking. This recipe is very quick and easy to make. It might seem like it requires a long time, but it doesn't demand much effort. The length of time is mainly due to the resting period while you marinate the chicken. Overall, once you place the pan in the oven and it starts baking, you're pretty much done.

The green peas are a great addition to the recipe. Besides their unique and flavorful taste, they also contribute to the texture of the finished dish. The mushrooms are also a wonderful addition to the chicken recipe. They are very delicious and provide numerous health benefits.

Kitchen Utensils You'll Need

The following kitchen utensils are basically what you'll need in preparing this recipe:

  • Baking pan (I used 9x13 glass baking pan)
  • Oven
  • Serving plate
  • Oven mitts
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • 1 large ziplock (alternately, you can use any kitchenware preferably with lid for storing the chicken and marinade during marination process)

Interesting Facts About Chicken Breast

  • Lean Protein: Chicken breast is one of the leanest sources of protein, making it a favorite among fitness enthusiasts and those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
  • Versatility: Chicken breast can be cooked in numerous ways, including grilling, baking, frying, and poaching. Its mild flavor makes it a versatile ingredient in many cuisines.
  • Nutrient-Rich: Besides being high in protein, chicken breast is also rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B6, niacin, selenium, and phosphorus.
  • Low in Fat: Compared to other parts of the chicken, the breast is significantly lower in fat, especially when the skin is removed.
  • Popularity: Chicken breast is one of the most popular cuts of chicken in the United States and many other countries due to its health benefits and ease of preparation.
  • Quick Cooking: Chicken breast cooks relatively quickly, making it a convenient option for weeknight dinners.
  • Weight Management: Due to its high protein content and low fat, chicken breast is often included in weight loss and muscle-building diets.
  • Affordable: Chicken breast is generally affordable and widely available, making it a staple in many households.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 lbs boneless chicken breast
  • 1 clove extremely finely chopped
  • 3 very finely chopped Thai pepper
  • 1/2 freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 15 oz green peas (equivalent to 1 can 425 grams of green peas, drain weight 230 g)
  • 1 small finely sliced onion
  • 14 ounces mushroom (equivalent to 1 can 400 grams mushroom)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 cup vinegar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon of cooking oil
  • 1 teaspoon of brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon instant black coffee
  • 2 dried bay leaves

Directions

  1. Prepare marinade sauce by combining salt, pepper, vinegar, oil, onion, garlic, and orange juice.

  2. Marinade chicken breast using large Ziplock for 30 minutes. Carefully press out the air to ensure sauce is surrounding the chicken to infuse flavor to the chicken.

  3. After 30 minutes, preheat oven at 325F (about 160C).

  4. Carefully open the Ziplock bag, add the soy sauce and water. Reseal and gently rock or tilt the bag back and forth. Do it carefully just enough for the water and soy sauce to combine with the marinade sauce.

  5. Afterwards, transfer the chicken and all of the marinade sauce to a 9x13 pan. I used glass pan in this recipe, then add onions.

    Spicy Baked Chicken with Onions and Green Peas
  6. Open the can of green peas and mushroom, pour off carefully any water from the can. Then, Add the can of green peas and mushroom to the baking pan. Press gently to ensure the vegetables are covered in sauce.

    Spicy Baked Chicken with Onions and Green Peas
  7. Sprinkle paprika and additional black pepper. And gently sprinkle the 1/4 tablespoon of instant black coffee into the marinade sauce.

    Spicy Baked Chicken with Onions and Green Peas
  8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.

    Spicy Baked Chicken with Onions and Green Peas
  9. Remove from heat carefully to avoid spilling the hot liquid. Make sure you use oven mitts for safety.

    Spicy Baked Chicken with Onions and Green Peas
  10. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve. Enjoy!

    Spicy Baked Chicken with Onions and Green Peas

In conclusion, chicken breast is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be incorporated into a variety of delicious recipes. Its high protein content, low fat, and rich supply of essential vitamins and minerals make it a popular choice for those seeking a healthy diet. Whether you're preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful dish for a special occasion, chicken breast offers endless possibilities. Try incorporating chicken breast into your meals to enjoy its numerous health benefits and culinary versatility.