Black Eyed Peas Chicken Recipe for a Hearty Meal

Black eyed peas and chicken come together in a delightful combination that’s both hearty and nutritious. This recipe is perfect for those who crave a comforting meal with a Southern twist, blending the earthiness of black eyed peas with the tender juiciness of chicken.

Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or prepping for a cozy weekend feast, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul.

What makes this recipe stand out is its balance of flavors and textures, along with its ease of preparation. The black eyed peas provide a creamy, slightly nutty base while the chicken adds protein and richness.

Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be adapted with various spices and ingredients depending on your mood and pantry availability.

Ready to make a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with wholesome goodness? Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to master this classic black eyed peas chicken recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Black eyed peas chicken recipe is a fantastic blend of nutrition and comfort. It’s a meal that offers:

• Protein-packed goodness: Chicken and black eyed peas together make this a filling and energizing dish.
• Rich flavors: The combination of herbs, spices, and slow-cooked ingredients brings depth and warmth.
• Easy to customize: You can tweak the seasoning, add vegetables, or switch up the cooking method to fit your preferences.
• Perfect for meal prep: This recipe holds up well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day.
• Comfort food with a healthy twist: It’s hearty without being heavy, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups dried black eyed peas (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 1/2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs (skin-on for more flavor)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 bay leaves
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Optional: 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (for heat)

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven with lid
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander (if using dried black eyed peas)
• Bowl (for soaking peas, if dried)

Instructions

1. Prepare the black eyed peas: If using dried peas, rinse them thoroughly and soak in cold water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain before cooking. If using canned peas, simply rinse and drain.
2. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry and season generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin. Set aside.
3. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
4. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add diced onions, bell pepper, and jalapeño if using. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add spices and broth: Stir in dried thyme, bay leaves, and cayenne pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze any browned bits.
6. Cook the black eyed peas: Add the drained black eyed peas to the pot. Stir well to combine.
7. Return the chicken: Nestle the seared chicken thighs on top of the peas and broth mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid.
8. Simmer gently: Let everything cook together for 45-60 minutes if using dried peas, or about 30 minutes if using canned peas, until the chicken is cooked through and peas are tender.
9. Adjust seasoning: Taste the broth and add salt or pepper as needed. Remove bay leaves before serving.
10. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish and serve hot with your favorite side.

Tips & Variations

Soaking dried black eyed peas not only shortens cooking time but also improves their digestibility.

• Use boneless chicken: For a quicker version, boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well. Reduce cooking time to prevent drying out.
• Spice it up: Add smoked sausage or chorizo slices for extra flavor and a smoky kick.
• Vegetarian twist: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and vegetable broth for a plant-based alternative. For more vegan recipes, check out Black Eyed Pea Vegan Meatloaf Recipe.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream at the end for a richer sauce.
• Add greens: Toss in chopped kale or spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Leftover ideas: This dish can be shredded and used as filling for wraps or served over rice or quinoa.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This black eyed peas chicken recipe pairs wonderfully with:

• Steamed white or brown rice: Soak up the flavorful broth with a side of rice.
• Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread complements the savory dish perfectly.
• Collard greens or sautéed spinach: Add a green vegetable to balance the meal.
• Simple garden salad: A fresh, crisp salad can lighten the meal and add texture contrast.
• Warm crusty bread: Ideal for mopping up the delicious sauce.

For more creative meal ideas, you might enjoy browsing Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or explore comforting soups like the All Recipes Chicken Rice and Vegetable Soup Ideas to round out your dinner plans.

Conclusion

This black eyed peas chicken recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. The combination of tender chicken, hearty black eyed peas, and a medley of spices makes it a comforting, nutritious meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is approachable and rewarding to make.

It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests with a soulful Southern-inspired dish. Plus, the recipe’s flexibility means you can make it your own by adjusting spices, adding vegetables, or transforming it into a vegan alternative.

If you’re looking for more hearty and wholesome recipes, consider exploring other favorites like the Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or the Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.

Enjoy this delicious black eyed peas chicken recipe that warms the heart and fuels the body!

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