| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins – 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 12g | 3g | 15g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 2g | 38g | 1.2g |
As I delve into the culinary embrace of my Baked Chicken with Tahitian Spinach and Lemongrass recipe, my Louisiana origins and French lineage reverberate within each flavor. This dish merges the wholesome simplicity of home cooking with the vibrant tropical flavors, offering a taste that is as soulful as a Creole lullaby and as captivating as a soiree in the heart of Paris. Baked Chicken with Tahitian Spinach and Lemongrass is more than just an ordinary recipe; it’s a cuisine fusion that brings a burst of flavor and a touch of the exotic to your dining table.
A Fusion of Flavors
Reflective of my Creole roots, this recipe harnesses the simple goodness of chicken, a staple of homemade meals. The Tahitian spinach, a rare gem in vegetable kingdom, brings a unique earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the succulent chicken. The unmistakable scent and flavor of lemongrass, a common ingredient in many Southeast Asian dishes, adds an exotic twist that uplifts this dish to gourmet status.
A Healthy Indulgence
While this dish takes your taste buds on an exciting journey, it also offers various health benefits. Tahitian spinach, also known as Bele or Slippery Cabbage, is a power-packed leafy green known for its robust nutritional profile. It’s loaded with calcium, iron, and a plethora of vitamins, all of which offer numerous health benefits like improved digestion, fortified immune system and stronger bones. The addition of lemongrass isn’t just for flavor; it’s known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and antioxidant properties, making it a heart-healthy inclusion to any meal.
Chicken is a lean protein that aids muscle growth and development, while the zesty lemons bring a hefty dose of vitamin C, aiding in iron absorption and immunity boost. This recipe, therefore, isn’t merely food for the senses, but nourishment for the body as well.
Pairing Suggestions
While Baked Chicken with Tahitian Spinach and Lemongrass can certainly stand its own, its flavors pair wonderfully with a multitude of dishes. A side of lemon-garlic cauliflower rice complements the robust chicken whilst keeping the meal light and health-forward. Delight in this dish with a chilled glass of chardonnay, whose bright notes of apple and hint of oak will accentuate the rich, tropical flavors.
In the grand symphony of culinary exploration, this elegant and nutritious dish plays a melody that resonates with my roots, my passion for wholesome, delicious food, and my ever-present desire to bring a moment of gourmet delight into your homes. Bon Appétit!
What You’ll Need
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups of fresh Tahitian spinach
- 3 lemongrass stalks, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 white onion, diced
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup of chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 cup of diced pineapple
- 1 cup of diced mango
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C). While it’s heating, salt and pepper each side of the chicken breasts to taste. Then, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.
Step Two
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear them until they’re browned. This should take about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Then, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step Three
Reduce the skillet’s heat to medium, then add the remaining olive oil, minced garlic, diced onion, and chopped lemongrass. Sauté these ingredients until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Step Four
Add the fresh Tahitian spinach to the skillet. Cook it until it wilts, stirring often. This should take about 2 minutes. Then, add the lemon zest and juice, chicken broth, butter, diced pineapple and diced mango. Stir well to combine.
Step Five
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure to nestle them into the spinach and fruit. Then, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. This should take about 25 to 30 minutes. Ensure the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C).
Step Six
Take the skillet out of the oven and let the dish rest for a couple of minutes before serving it. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken is moist and flavorful. Serve hot.
