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– **2 lbs chicken thighs** (boneless and skinless) – I prefer chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor, but you can also use chicken breasts if you like.
– **1 onion**, finely chopped
– **3 garlic cloves**, minced
– **1 bell pepper**, diced
– **1 cup diced tomatoes** (fresh or canned)
– **½ cup heavy cream**
– **2 tablespoons olive oil**
– **1 teaspoon paprika**
– **1 teaspoon cumin**
– **½ teaspoon chili powder** (optional for a little heat)
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **Fresh cilantro**, chopped (for garnish)
– **Rice or mashed potatoes** (for serving)
This dish is highly adaptable. You can add your favorite vegetables or tweak the seasonings to suit your preferences. It’s all about balancing the richness of the chicken and the creamy sauce with the perfect blend of spices.
### How to Make “Husband’s Happiness”
Now that you have the ingredients ready, here’s how you can bring this dish to life in your own kitchen.
#### Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
1. Heat the **olive oil** in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the **chopped onion** and sauté until it becomes translucent, about **3-4 minutes**.
2. Add the **minced garlic** and **bell pepper**, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
#### Step 2: Cook the Chicken
1. Season the **chicken thighs** with **salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and chili powder** (if using). Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
2. Push the onions and garlic to the side of the pan and add the chicken to the skillet. Brown the chicken on both sides, about **4-5 minutes per side** until golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking the chicken all the way through at this point – it will finish cooking in the next steps.
#### Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Simmer
1. Add the **diced tomatoes** to the pan, stirring everything together. Allow the tomatoes to simmer for a few minutes, letting their juices release and infuse the chicken and aromatics with flavor.
2. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the chicken simmer for **10-12 minutes** until fully cooked and tender.
#### Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
1. Pour in the **heavy cream**, stirring gently to combine. The cream will add richness to the sauce and make it beautifully creamy.
2. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices if needed.
#### Step 5: Serve and Garnish
1. Once the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is creamy and flavorful, it’s time to serve. Plate the chicken alongside **rice** or **mashed potatoes** — something to soak up all that delicious sauce.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped **cilantro** to add a pop of color and freshness.
### Why This Dish is Loved
– **Tender Chicken**: Cooking the chicken slowly in the flavorful sauce ensures that it remains juicy and tender. The spices and cream infuse every bite with rich, comforting flavors.
– **Creamy Sauce**: The heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that coats the chicken and absorbs into the rice or potatoes, making every bite a mouthwatering experience.
– **Perfect Balance of Flavors**: The combination of paprika, cumin, garlic, and chili powder creates a harmonious flavor profile that’s savory with a hint of heat and sweetness.
– **Customizable**: Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach to make the dish more vibrant or switch up the seasonings to suit your family’s tastes.
### Tips for the Perfect “Husband’s Happiness”
– **Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor**: If you have the time and want even more flavor, try using bone-in chicken thighs. The bones add extra depth to the dish.
– **Make It Spicy or Mild**: Adjust the amount of chili powder and cumin depending on your family’s spice tolerance. It’s easy to make this dish as mild or spicy as you prefer.
– **Double the Recipe for a Crowd**: If you’re hosting a family gathering or have company, this recipe is easily doubled to serve more people. It’s a great make-ahead dish, too — the flavors develop even more the next day!
### Conclusion
**“Husband’s Happiness”** is more than just a recipe; it’s a dish that symbolizes love, care, and the joy of sharing a meal with those we cherish. Every time I make this meal, it fills the house with warmth, and my husband’s reaction reminds me of why I love cooking. It’s a dish that’s sure to bring comfort, happiness, and smiles to your table, just as it does in mine.
Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or simply craving a comforting meal for yourself, this recipe is the perfect choice. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to make anyone who eats it feel special. Give it a try — and I hope it brings as much joy to your home as it does to mine!
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