| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins – 35 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 10g | 2g | 16g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 3g | 40g | 0.8g |
One of my all-time favorite dishes that I love to prepare is the Oven Roasted Cactus Pear Chicken. This tantalizing recipe is an epitome of Californian philosophy, mirroring the eclectic fusion of health-conscious culinary traditions with indulgent comfort food to create an unforgettable dining experience.
West Coast Influence
Having been born and raised in the beautiful valleys of California, I’m naturally inspired by the abundance of fresh, healthy produce available at our local farmers’ markets. The cactus pear, more commonly known in some parts as the prickly pear, is one of those unique superfoods that not only thrives in our sun-drenched climes but also brings a vibrant taste and a host of health benefits to the table.
A Nutritious Delight
Research suggests that cactus pear consumptions significantly contributes to maintaining and enhancing our health by providing important antioxidants, fiber, and various vitamins. The nutritional profile of this recipe is further boosted with lean protein from the chicken breast and heart-healthy fats from the olive oil. Coupled with flavorsome spices and the tanginess of fresh lime, every bite of this Oven Roasted Cactus Pear Chicken is an invitation to wellness and satisfaction.
Lovers of balsamic chicken recipes are going to find a new favorite in this dish, as the cactus pear imparts a subtly sweet tone that is complementary to the savory chicken. This culinary creation also pairs perfectly with a vibrant salad or some roasted asparagus, providing a balance of taste and nutrients.
No matter where you’re from, or what your palette preference might be, I believe there’s something special about preparing and sharing a meal that is delicious, comforting, and beneficial for our bodies. And when you take your first bite of this Oven Roasted Cactus Pear Chicken, I’m certain you’ll feel the love and energy we West Coast folks put into our food.
What You’ll Need
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cactus pears (also known as prickly pears)
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, start preparing the cactus pears. Use a sharp knife to remove both ends of the pears, then cut a shallow slit from top to bottom. You can easily peel off the skin using this slit. Chop the cactus pears into small cubes and set it aside.
Step Two
Next, heat a large, oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the olive oil. Season chicken breasts with salt, cumin, paprika and pepper on both sides and sear them in the pan for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they get a nice golden color. Once all chicken breasts are browned, remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step Three
In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté it until it turns golden. Then, add the cubed cactus pear, lime juice, honey and chicken broth. Cook this mix for about 2-3 minutes, while stirring occasionally.
Step Four
Place the browned chicken breasts back into the pan, nestling them into the cactus pear sauce. Transfer the pan into the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. There’s no need to cover the pan.
Step Five
Once the chicken is done, take the pan out from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle the finished dish with the chopped fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your Oven Roasted Cactus Pear Chicken straight from the pan or with a side of your choice!
