Easy and Delicious Encore et Encore: Your Go-To Comfort Dish
There’s something magical about cooking that instantly transports me back to my childhood. One particular dish, Encore et encore, has found its way to the table of our cozy home so many times that it feels like a familial embrace on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I attempted to make it; I was a nervous wreck, kitchen clanking, spice jars toppling, and if I’m being honest, my confidence was about as low as my high school GPA. Imagine me, sleeves rolled up, overthinking every step as if I were preparing for a culinary exam rather than doing what should be a fun activity! But lo and behold, through the chaos, I discovered not only how comforting this dish is, but also how it can bring a family together.
As the onions sautéed in the pan, their sweet aroma filled the air, and I realized I was onto something beautiful. The humidity of the kitchen, the soft glow of the lights in the evening — it was an ambiance that could melt away the worries of the day. Honestly, each ingredient mingled to create a tantalizing symphony that danced on my taste buds, and of course, a few unexpected “oops” moments along the way made this journey all the more entertaining.
This dish isn’t just special because of the taste. Encore et encore has become a beloved tradition in our household, just like those flannel pajamas we sport during heated movie marathons. It embodies all the warmth and love that comes with sharing meals, especially after a long week. Cozy food, family connection, and a chance to gather around the table — this dish checks all the boxes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: This isn’t a five-hour affair; we’re talking about an easy weeknight dinner that fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with nutritional goodness, this dish fits seamlessly into my healthy eating plan — who said comfort food can’t be nutritious?
- Perfect for Picky Eaters: Seriously, my kids keep coming back for seconds. I didn’t expect that!
- Leftover Magic: I promise you, even the next day, it tastes just as good. Who doesn’t love easy high protein high calorie meals that keep on giving?
- Meal Prep Winner: I often whip up a big batch for meal prep, and voila! Healthy meal plans for two have never been easier.
- Emotional Satisfaction: This dish feels like a hug in a bowl. Seriously, it’s like culinary therapy.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
Hold on tight, because this recipe packs some serious flavor! The balance of spices creates a warm, savory sensation that delights your palate. Not only have I experimented with flavors over the years, but diving into my grandmother’s old cookbook always unveils hidden gems — and this dish is one of them.
Picture this: the sizzle of garlic hitting the hot oil is music to my ears while the diced vegetables dance around in the pan. There’s something so soothing about the whole process. If I can draw any sentimental memories here — it’s curling up with my mother in the kitchen, as she spills family secrets of her beloved dish while I recreate them clumsily.
The use of high-quality ingredients ensures that every bite bursts with flavor. I’ve learned through countless trials (and a fair number of kitchen mishaps) the finer points of selecting the best produce and spices. Trust me, this dish deserves the best!
Ingredients
- Chicken Breast: A lean, high-protein choice that’s versatile and absorbs flavors like a sponge. Go for organic if you can find it!
- Bell Peppers: They add a vibrant pop of color and sweetness — and they’ll keep your plate looking fab!
- Onions: The base flavor that just brings everything together. I cry every time I chop them, but it’s worth it!
- Garlic: Because who doesn’t love the aroma of freshly sautéed garlic? Just be careful not to burn it — oops!
- Coconut Milk: This creamy goodness gives the dish that comforting texture. It’s way better than using heavy cream — and it’s healthier, too!
- Broccoli & Carrots: Each adds crunch and vibrant color; plus, they’re always a sneaky way to add veggies for my picky eaters.
- Spices: Think coriander, cumin, and a touch of paprika for that warm, cozy vibe.
- Rice: Serve it over your favorite whole grain or cauliflower rice for those keeping it low-carb!
As for brands, I love using Coconut Dream for coconut milk — it’s simply the best. But honestly, any brand will do if you’re in a pinch. My only warning? Avoid those reduced-fat versions as they usually just add thickeners instead of the great taste you’re aiming for!
How to Make It Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Alright, before you dive in, gather all your ingredients and chop them up. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve embarked on a cooking adventure only to be stopped short by a missing ingredient. Ain’t nobody got time for that!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pan, heat a splash of olive oil. Toss in the diced onions and, oh, let the magic happen. Yeah, you know that sound? Sizzling onions will have your family racing to the kitchen. After about three minutes, add in the garlic and bell peppers. The key here is to stir them often; we don’t want burnt garlic — no thanks!
Step 3: Brown That Chicken
Now, let those onions and peppers shine for a moment. Increase the heat a little and add in your chicken breast. Sear it for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning until beautifully golden brown. This part can get a bit messy (chicken splatter, anyone?), but the smell is divine! When the chicken is cooked through, you can chop it into bite-sized pieces. Yes, please!
Step 4: Add the Veggies
Throw in the broccoli and carrots next. At this point, the kitchen is filled with amazing aromas, and you might just find yourself dancing a little while waiting for the veggies to soften. Honestly, it’s therapeutic!
Step 5: Pour in the Coconut Milk and Spice It Up
Here’s where things get creamy and dreamy! Pour in the coconut milk and sprinkle in your spices. Stir it all together. The ground cumin and coriander will envelop your kitchen, and you might even start doing a happy dance. Bring this mixture to a simmer — oh yes.
Step 6: Simmer & Serve
Let it bubble on low heat for about 10 minutes. You can use this time to prep your rice or to make dramatic dinner announcements that the food will be ready soon. Serve it over rice or cauliflower rice. Trust me, it just works.
Step 7: Enjoy!
And there you have it! Dish it all out into bowls, and bask in the compliments you’ll inevitably receive.
Tips for Best Results
- Always use a meat thermometer! I’ve had my fair share of undercooked chicken — and it’s no fun!
- For extra flavor, allow your dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
- Don’t skip the spices; they’re what bring life to this dish.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- Vegetable Swap: Got leftover veggies? Toss them in! Zucchini, snap peas, or even leftover bell peppers work great here.
- Protein Options: Swap chicken for diced beef or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Both options add unique flavors!
- Dietary Preferences: For a low-calorie version, consider using less coconut milk and more broth.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, or if you’re feeling extra fancy, a chardonnay isn’t bad either. And if you really want to indulge, follow it up with a bowl of dark chocolate mousse. Trust me; this and a rom-com is perfection.
Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)
- For Drinks: A light sparkling water with a splash of lemon is refreshing!
- For Sides: Garlic naan is a delicious addition. Spread some warm butter — oh, it’s heavenly!
- For Desserts: Dark chocolate mousse or fruit tart will put the icing on your culinary adventure.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Honestly, this dish tastes almost better the second day. Store leftovers in airtight containers and pop them in the fridge. When reheating, avoid the microwave if you can because it tends to dry out the chicken. Instead, warm it up gently on the stove with a splash of water and cover the pan — hello, moist chicken!
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
This meal is a great option for meal prepping. You can freeze portions after cooking; just let them cool before popping them in freezer-safe bags. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t skip chopping veggies uniformly. This ensures even cooking — no mushy carrots, please!
- Avoid cooking at too high heat, or you’ll risk burning the chicken or garlic. Yikes!
- And please, I beg you, don’t forget to taste as you go. Your taste buds will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for tofu and use vegetable broth instead of coconut milk for a lighter version.
How do I spice it up further?
If you love spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some fresh chopped chili peppers, depending on your personal taste!
What if I don’t like coconut milk?
You can use almond or oat milk, but make sure to adjust for flavors accordingly.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Sure! Just be aware they may release extra moisture; adjust cooking times as necessary.
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
- A sturdy pan for sautéing.
- A sharp knife — don’t cut your finger, trust me!
- Measuring spoons and cups for precision.
Final Thoughts
Looking back, making Encore et encore was one of the happiest accidents of my culinary journey. It’s comforting, nostalgic, and easy enough that I can whip it up even on the busiest of weeknights. Every time I serve it, I see smiling faces around the table; that warmth fills me with gratitude. I invite you to make this recipe your own. Share your version with me — I’d love to hear about your kitchen chaos!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend!
Encore et Encore
Ingrédients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Chicken Breast Go for organic if you can find it!
- 2 medium Bell Peppers Adds color and sweetness.
- 1 large Onion Base flavor that brings everything together.
- 3 cloves Garlic Freshly sautéed for aroma.
- 1 cup Coconut Milk Healthier than heavy cream.
- 1 cup Broccoli Adds crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 cup Carrots Sneaky way to add veggies.
- 1 tablespoon Coriander For a warm, cozy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Cumin Enhances the savory sensation.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds depth to the flavor.
- 2 cups Rice Serve over your choice of rice.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients and chop them up.
Cooking
- In a large pan, heat a splash of olive oil. Toss in the diced onions and sauté for about three minutes.
- Add in the garlic and bell peppers, stirring often to avoid burning the garlic.
- Increase the heat and add the chicken breast. Sear for about 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Add in the broccoli and carrots and cook until slightly softened.
- Pour in the coconut milk and sprinkle in the spices. Stir and bring to a simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Serve over rice or cauliflower rice.
