Craving a meal that's both delicious and nutritious, but short on time? Look no further! These sheet pan chicken tinga bowls are a game-changer for anyone looking to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a flavor-packed dish that's perfect for meal prepping and satisfying those taco cravings in a healthy way.
The Beauty of Sheet Pan Cooking
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity: everything cooks on one pan. This means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. The chicken and bell peppers roast together, creating a symphony of flavors that’s both smoky and savory. And the tinga sauce? It’s a vibrant blend of tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and aromatic spices, giving these bowls a real kick.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 bell peppers, sliced (mix colors for the best visual appeal)
- 1 tsp salt, pepper to taste
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
For the Tinga Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp salt
Simple Steps
- Prep the Sheet Pan: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the chicken and peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Roast: Bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Make the Sauce: While the chicken roasts, heat olive oil in a skillet. Add onion, garlic, chipotles, and spices. Sauté for about 10 minutes. Then, add tomatoes and salt, and simmer for another 10 minutes. Blend until smooth.
- Combine and Serve: Shred the chicken right on the sheet pan, pour the sauce over everything, and mix well. Serve with quinoa, black beans, or your favorite grain, as well as extra toppings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Prep time is minimal, and the sheet pan method makes cleanup a breeze.
- Healthy: Packed with protein and veggies, it's a balanced meal you can feel good about.
- Versatile: Customize your bowls with your favorite grains, beans, and toppings.
- Flavorful: The combination of smoky chicken, roasted peppers, and spicy tinga sauce is simply irresistible.
Tips and Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers to control the heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for firm tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based alternative.
- Extra Sauce: The sauce freezes well, so make a big batch and save some for later.
These Sheet Pan Chicken Tinga Bowls are a fantastic way to enjoy a satisfying, healthy, and flavorful meal any day of the week. Whether you're prepping for a busy week or just looking for a quick dinner idea, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the ease of cooking with a sheet pan!