January 22, 2024

Chicken Creole: A Deep Dive into a Southern Classic

When it comes to soul-satisfying comfort food that's rich in history and flavor, few dishes can match the hearty appeal of Chicken Creole.

This classic Southern dish, born from a fusion of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, tantalizes the taste buds with its vibrant blend of spices, tender chicken, and a tomato-based sauce that's as comforting as a warm embrace.

In this blog, we delve into the origins, ingredients, and preparation of Chicken Creole, celebrating its journey from humble beginnings to a beloved culinary masterpiece.

A Melting Pot of Culinary Heritage

Chicken Creole stands as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry that is New Orleans cuisine.

Born in the heart of the French Quarter, this dish reflects the historical convergence of diverse culinary traditions that shaped the region.

The French contributed their culinary refinement, the Spanish added a touch of spice, and the African and Caribbean influences infused the dish with an array of exotic flavors.

Over time, these elements came together to create the unique symphony of taste that defines Chicken Creole today.

The Flavorful Ensemble of Ingredients

At the heart of Chicken Creole lies a medley of ingredients that harmonize to create an unforgettable taste experience:

Chicken: Traditionally, bone-in chicken pieces are used for Chicken Creole. In our recipe, we use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This cuts down on the amount of fat in your recipe and makes it a little more kid-friendly. Feel free to use bone-in chicken if you prefer that!
Holy Trinity: This triumvirate of onions, bell peppers, and celery is the backbone of Creole cuisine, lending a robust and aromatic base to the dish. Plus – check out these amazing health benefits you get when you include the “holy trinity” in your meal:
- Onions:
  - Antioxidant-rich, especially quercetin.
  - Supports heart health and healthy cholesterol levels.
  - Contains prebiotic fibers for gut health.
  - May aid in blood sugar management.
- Bell Peppers:
  - High in vitamin C for immune support.
  - Rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A) for eye health.
  - Good source of dietary fiber for digestion.
  - High water content contributes to hydration and skin health.
- Celery:
  - Rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin K and potassium.
  - Contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation.
  - Provides dietary fiber for improved digestion.
  - May contribute to hydration due to its high water content.
Tomatoes: A key ingredient in the dish’s sauce, tomatoes provide acidity and sweetness that balance the spices.
Spices: Creole cuisine is known for its bold use of spices. A blend that often includes paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, and bay leaves contributes to the dish’s distinctive flavor profile. Our recipe includes bay leaf, thyme, garlic, and hot pepper.
Rice: Chicken Creole is commonly served over a bed of fluffy rice, soaking up the luscious sauce and completing the meal. Our recipe calls for brown rice. This adds a whole grain to your meal, giving it more nutrients!

Chicken Creole Recipe

Ingredients:

1 cup uncooked brown rice
2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 (16 oz.) can tomatoes
1 cup tomato juice
1 onion, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 bay leaf
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1 clove garlic, minced
1 pinch hot pepper

Directions to make Chicken Creole:

Start by cooking your rice according to the instructions on the package.
Combine all other ingredients in a heavy pot and bring to a boil.
Lower the heat, cover and simmer for 1 hour or until chicken is tender and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Remove chicken and cut into bite size pieces.
Add chicken back to the pot and reheat.
Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
Serve chicken over rice. For a full MyPlate meal, consider adding a side of fruit and a cup of milk.