Cumin Chicken

Cumin chicken is an aromatic and zesty dish, with satisfying warmth, depth and a hint of smokiness in every bite. This super-easy recipe comes together in only 30 minutes and delivers a healthy dose of lean protein and antioxidants. It’s family-friendly, yet exotic enough to feel special.

But what exactly is cumin? Even if this globe-trotting spice isn’t in your regular seasoning rotation, you’re probably more familiar with it than you realize. Native to the Eastern Mediterranean and South Asia, cumin has been a culinary and trade staple since ancient times. Today, it’s a backbone flavor in Mexican, Indian, Middle Eastern and North African cooking, showing up in everything from chili powder and chicken shawarma to curry blends and Moroccan tagine recipes. Beyond its warm, earthy flavor, cumin is also rich in antioxidants and boasts anti-inflammatory properties. So go ahead and grab a second helping of cumin chicken—you’re doing your body a favor.

Cumin Chicken Ingredients

• Ground cumin
• Dried oregano
• Garlic salt
• Canola oil
• Boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• Picante sauce
• Water
• Reduced-sodium chicken bouillon granules

Directions

Step 1: Season and brown the chicken

Mix together 1 teaspoon of the cumin with the oregano and garlic salt.

Sprinkle the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.

In a large nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and brown it on both sides.

Step 2: Mix the sauce ingredients

To a small bowl, add the picante sauce, water, bouillon and the remaining cumin.

Mix them well.

Step 3: Finish the sauce

Pour the mixture over the chicken. Bring the skillet to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the chicken, covered, until a thermometer inserted into the chicken reads 165°F, 8 to 12 minutes.

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Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm. Bring the sauce to a boil, and cook it, uncovered, until it’s thickened, stirring occasionally, three to four minutes. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and serve.

How to Store Cumin Chicken

Once it’s cooled, place leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to four days. Cumin chicken can also be frozen for up to three months in freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat it fully in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Cumin Chicken Tips

What can I serve with cumin chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables and a side of rice, farro or seasoned couscous. To keep the meal on the healthier side, pair it with a lighter side dish that will keep your entree flavor-forward and guilt-free.

Can I make this cumin chicken recipe in the oven?

Absolutely! In fact, there are a couple of easy options for making cumin chicken in the oven:

• Braise it: Sear the chicken in a Dutch oven and add the sauce ingredients, then cover and bake it at 350° for 25 to 30 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165° on your instant-read meat thermometer.
• Bake it in a casserole dish: Place the chicken in a 13×9-inch baking dish, cover it with the sauce and bake it, uncovered, at 350° for 30 minutes or until it’s done.

What else can I add to cumin chicken?

Turn this cumin chicken recipe into a one-pan meal by adding chickpeas, green beans or diced sweet potatoes when cooking. For inspiration, take cues from cumin-loving cuisines: Try black beans and cilantro for a Mexican vibe, or lentils and parsley for a Middle Eastern spin.