We’ve always loved the comforting blend of tender chicken and hearty black-eyed peas, a dish that brings Southern flavors to your table with a nutritious twist. Originating from traditional American cuisine, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, offering protein-packed goodness that keeps you satisfied.
This recipe showcases how simple ingredients create bold tastes, whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro. We’ll guide you through an easy process that highlights fresh herbs and spices, making it a go-to favorite in our kitchen.
Ingredients
As we dive into our flavorful Chicken and Black-Eyed Peas recipe—a dish that’s as nutritious as it is comforting—we’ve curated a list of fresh, high-quality ingredients to bring out the bold flavors and protein-packed goodness. These are ordered as they’ll be used in the preparation, with prep notes for precision.
- Chicken: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces for even cooking and tender results.
- Black-eyed peas: 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (soaked overnight and drained) or 2 cans (15 ounces each) for quicker prep, ensuring a hearty texture.
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped to start building the base flavor.
- Garlic: 3 cloves garlic, minced to add aromatic depth right after the onions.
- Bell pepper: 1 large green bell pepper, diced to enhance the vegetable medley and provide a subtle crunch.
- Tomatoes: 2 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped for their juicy acidity that balances the dish.
- Chicken broth: 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth to simmer and infuse moisture.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil for sautéing, promoting a rich base.
- Spices: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a smoky kick, 1 teaspoon ground cumin for warmth, and ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for optional heat—adjust to taste.
- Fresh herbs: ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, added at the end for a vibrant, fresh finish.
- Salt and pepper: 1 teaspoon sea salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper, seasoned to enhance all flavors without overwhelming.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients for this Chicken and Black-Eyed Peas recipe, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create a flavorful, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for family dinners.
Prep the Ingredients
First, we prepare our ingredients to ensure everything is ready for cooking. Start by rinsing 1 cup of dried black-eyed peas (or drain and rinse a 15-ounce can if using canned) under cold water to remove any debris, then set them aside. Next, chop 1 medium onion and 1 green bell pepper into even dice, and mince 3 garlic cloves for a punch of aroma. Dice 2 ripe tomatoes to add juicy freshness, and measure out 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for the spice blend that brings bold flavors to our dish. Finally, pat dry 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their tender texture.
Cook the Chicken and Black-Eyed Peas
We begin cooking by heating 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they soften and release a fragrant, savory aroma that fills the kitchen. Stir in the seasoned chicken thighs, browning them for 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust and lock in their juicy tenderness. Next, add the rinsed black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes, 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the peas are tender and the chicken is fully cooked, infusing the dish with hearty, comforting flavors and a subtle spicy kick.
Assemble and Serve
Once cooking is complete, we remove the pot from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Shred the chicken thighs using two forks for easy handling, then stir everything together in the pot to ensure even distribution of the rich, aromatic broth. For a vibrant finish, garnish each serving with freshly chopped cilantro to add a bright, herbaceous note. Dish out generous portions into bowls, showcasing the colorful mix of tender chicken, hearty black-eyed peas, and vegetables for a satisfying, nutritious meal that highlights the bold tastes of this classic recipe.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our flavorful Chicken and Black-Eyed Peas recipe seamlessly, we recommend gathering these essential tools and equipment. This setup ensures efficiency and safety, building on the ingredient preparation and cooking instructions we’ve covered.
Essential Kitchen Tools
We suggest the following items, organized by their role in the process:
- Cutting board and sharp knife: For safely chopping onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes, which form the aromatic base of our dish.
- Large skillet or Dutch oven: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and browning the chicken thighs, allowing for even heat distribution and simmering the mixture to perfection.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Crucial for accurately measuring spices like smoked paprika and ground cumin, as well as liquids such as chicken broth, to achieve the precise flavors we’ve outlined.
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula: Used for stirring ingredients during cooking, preventing sticking and ensuring the black-eyed peas absorb the rich seasonings.
- Colander: Necessary for rinsing dried black-eyed peas (if using) to remove any debris, preparing them for the hearty simmer.
- Ladle or serving spoon: For portioning out the finished dish, highlighting its vibrant presentation on the dinner table.
By having these tools ready, we can transition smoothly from prep to cooking, making our recipe accessible and enjoyable for cooks of all levels.
Make-Ahead Instructions
As food enthusiasts who love efficient meal prep, we often prepare our Chicken and Black-Eyed Peas recipe in advance to save time without sacrificing flavor. This approach lets us enjoy the dish’s tender chicken, earthy black-eyed peas, and aromatic spices on busy days. Below, we outline the key steps for make-ahead preparation, storage, and reheating to keep the meal as vibrant and satisfying as possible.
Preparing Ingredients in Advance
To streamline cooking, we recommend prepping the core components ahead of time. Start by rinsing and soaking dried black-eyed peas if using them—simply cover 1 cup of peas with water and let them soak for 4 to 8 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Chop vegetables like onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and tomatoes into uniform pieces and store them in airtight containers. Season the boneless skinless chicken thighs with a mix of smoked paprika, ground cumin, and a pinch of cayenne pepper, then place them in a sealed bag or container. These steps allow the flavors to meld, enhancing the dish’s bold, comforting profile.
Cooking the Dish Ahead
For full make-ahead convenience, we cook the entire recipe up to 2 days in advance. Begin by sautéing the chopped vegetables in extra-virgin olive oil until they release their fragrant aromas. Brown the seasoned chicken in the same pan to lock in its juicy tenderness, then add the black-eyed peas and low-sodium chicken broth. Simmer everything together for 45 to 60 minutes until the peas are creamy and the chicken is fork-tender. Once cooled, divide the mixture into portions—this helps preserve the rich, hearty texture and prevents overcooking upon reheating.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining the dish’s freshness and nutritional value. We suggest the following based on standard food safety practices:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Transfer the cooled dish to airtight containers to retain moisture and flavors. Keep at 40°F (4°C) or below to avoid bacterial growth. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving headspace for expansion. Label with the date to track freshness and ensure optimal taste when thawed. |
Reheating for Optimal Flavor
When ready to serve, we reheat the dish gently to preserve its vibrant colors and comforting warmth. For refrigerated portions, warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through. If using frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first, then reheat as above. This method revives the dish’s savory spices and tender consistency, making it feel freshly made every time. Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving to add a burst of brightness.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve discovered the joys of Chicken and Black-Eyed Peas recipes with us.
This dish proves how easy, nutritious meals can elevate everyday dining.
Let’s keep experimenting in our kitchens—it’s a flavorful way to build lasting traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken and Black-Eyed Peas?
Chicken and Black-Eyed Peas is a comforting, traditional American dish featuring tender chicken and hearty black-eyed peas. It’s ideal for family dinners or meal prep, offering a protein-packed meal with bold flavors from fresh herbs and spices. This recipe is accessible for novice and experienced cooks alike.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken thighs, dried or canned black-eyed peas, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced green bell pepper, chopped tomatoes, low-sodium chicken broth, extra-virgin olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, and fresh cilantro for garnish. These fresh, high-quality ingredients create a nutritious and flavorful dish.
How do I cook Chicken and Black-Eyed Peas?
Start by preparing ingredients: rinse peas, chop vegetables, and season chicken. Sauté vegetables in a skillet, brown the chicken, then simmer everything together in broth with spices until tender. Assemble and serve with cilantro garnish for a vibrant, hearty meal that takes about 45-60 minutes total.
What tools are required for this recipe?
Essential tools include a cutting board and sharp knife for chopping, a large skillet or Dutch oven for cooking, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, a colander for rinsing peas, and a ladle for serving. These make the process efficient and enjoyable for all skill levels.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare ingredients like soaking peas, chopping vegetables, and seasoning chicken in advance. Cook the full dish up to two days ahead and store in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheat gently to maintain flavors and texture, making it perfect for easy meal prep.
Is this recipe healthy?
Absolutely, it’s protein-packed with chicken and black-eyed peas, providing essential nutrients. Fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices add vitamins and antioxidants while keeping it low in sodium if using low-sodium broth. It’s a satisfying, nutritious option for balanced meals.
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
Preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, with cooking around 30-40 minutes of simmering. Total time is roughly 45-60 minutes, making it quick for a hearty meal. It’s beginner-friendly and allows for make-ahead options to save time.
