Asado Chicken Breast Spinach: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Asado chicken breast spinach, a delightful fusion of Filipino flavors and healthy eating, is about to become your new weeknight staple! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts, marinated in a savory-sweet adobo sauce, nestled on a bed of vibrant, nutrient-packed spinach. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and nourishes your body.

Adobo, the heart of this dish, holds a special place in Filipino culinary history. It’s a cooking method that dates back centuries, a way to preserve meat in the tropical climate using vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and peppercorns. Each family has their own unique twist on the recipe, passed down through generations. The beauty of adobo lies in its simplicity and adaptability, making it a beloved dish across the Philippines and beyond.

But why do people adore asado chicken breast spinach so much? It’s the perfect balance of flavors – the tangy vinegar cuts through the richness of the soy sauce, while the garlic and peppercorns add a delightful aromatic complexity. The chicken, cooked to perfection, is incredibly tender and flavorful. And the spinach? It adds a fresh, vibrant element, providing a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious and wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy chicken and spinach!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Asado Marinade:
• 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 2 tablespoons pineapple juice (optional, adds sweetness and tenderizes)
• For the Chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• For the Spinach Side Dish:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 ounces fresh spinach, washed and dried
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• Optional Garnishes:
• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions
• Lemon wedges

Preparing the Asado Marinade:

Okay, let’s get started with the heart of this dish – the Asado marinade! This is where all the magic happens, infusing the chicken with that sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavor we all love. Trust me, the longer you marinate the chicken, the better it will taste!

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, white vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground black pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. If you’re using pineapple juice, go ahead and add that in now. The enzymes in the pineapple juice will help tenderize the chicken, making it even more delicious.
3. Give everything a good whisk until the brown sugar is completely dissolved. You don’t want any gritty bits in your marinade!

Marinating the Chicken:

Now that our marinade is ready, it’s time to get the chicken involved. This is a crucial step, so don’t skip it! The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more flavorful and tender it will become. I usually aim for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better.

1. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
2. Pour the Asado marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is fully coated.
3. If using a plastic bag, seal it tightly and massage the marinade into the chicken. If using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. If marinating overnight, I recommend flipping the chicken breasts halfway through to ensure even marination.

Cooking the Chicken:

Alright, the chicken has been marinating and is bursting with flavor. Now it’s time to cook it! You can grill it, bake it, or pan-fry it – whatever you prefer. I’m going to show you how to pan-fry it, as it’s quick, easy, and yields a beautifully browned chicken breast.

1. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help them brown nicely in the pan. Don’t discard the marinade just yet; we’ll use it later!
2. Season the chicken breasts with a little salt and pepper. Remember, the marinade already has a good amount of salt, so don’t overdo it.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken.
4. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
5. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Making the Asado Sauce:

We’re not done yet! Remember that leftover marinade? We’re going to turn it into a delicious Asado sauce to drizzle over the chicken. This will add even more flavor and moisture to the dish.

1. Pour the leftover marinade into the same skillet you used to cook the chicken.
2. Bring the marinade to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Be careful not to burn the sauce.
4. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water to thin it out.
5. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a little more brown sugar for sweetness or a splash of vinegar for tanginess.

Preparing the Spinach Side Dish:

Now, let’s move on to the spinach side dish. This is a quick and easy way to add some healthy greens to your meal. I love how the garlicky spinach complements the savory Asado chicken.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. It will seem like a lot at first, but it will wilt down quickly.
4. Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and cover the skillet.
5. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and tender.
6. Remove the lid and cook for another minute or two, allowing any excess liquid to evaporate.
7. Season the spinach with salt and pepper to taste.
8. If using, stir in the lemon juice for a touch of brightness.

Assembling and Serving:

We’re in the home stretch! All that’s left to do is assemble the dish and serve it. This is the best part – when you get to enjoy the fruits of your labor!

1. Place a bed of spinach on each plate.
2. Top with a cooked Asado chicken breast.
3. Drizzle generously with the Asado sauce.
4. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicier kick. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Use different cuts of chicken: This recipe works well with chicken thighs as well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Grill the chicken: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken breasts over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
• Bake the chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Add vegetables to the spinach: Feel free to add other vegetables to the spinach, such as mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers.
• Serve with rice: This dish is delicious served with a side of white rice or brown rice.
• Make it ahead: You can marinate the chicken overnight and prepare the spinach ahead of time. Just reheat the spinach before serving.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this Asado Chicken Breast with Spinach recipe as much as I do! It’s a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the recipe and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Asado Chicken Breast with Spinach recipe is truly a game-changer. I know, I know, I might be biased, but trust me on this one. The combination of the sweet and savory Asado marinade with the lean protein of the chicken breast and the vibrant freshness of the spinach creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s a dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly healthy, making it a winner in my book.

But why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to make. We’re talking minimal prep time and a cooking process that’s virtually foolproof. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you can confidently whip up this dish and impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into your diet without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

The beauty of this Asado Chicken Breast with Spinach is that it’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

* Serve it over rice or quinoa: This is a classic pairing that allows the Asado sauce to soak into the grains, creating a truly comforting and flavorful meal. Consider using brown rice or quinoa for an extra boost of nutrients.
* Add a side of roasted vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini are all excellent choices that complement the flavors of the chicken and spinach.
* Make it a salad: Slice the Asado Chicken Breast and toss it with the spinach, some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and healthy salad.
* Turn it into a wrap: Stuff the chicken and spinach into a whole-wheat tortilla with some hummus or guacamole for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
* Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Asado marinade or drizzle some sriracha over the finished dish.
* Get creative with the spinach: Instead of plain spinach, try sautéing it with some garlic and olive oil for added flavor. You could also add other greens like kale or Swiss chard.
* Experiment with different cuts of chicken: While I personally love using chicken breast for its leanness, you could also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Time to Get Cooking!

I truly believe that this Asado Chicken Breast recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a delicious, healthy, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to experience a flavor explosion.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and I can’t wait to hear what you think! Don’t be shy – share your photos and feedback in the comments below. Let me know if you made any variations or added your own special touch. Happy cooking, and enjoy! I am sure you will love this recipe as much as I do. It is a great way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal.