Paleo Tex-Mex Chicken Tenders

Paleo Tex-Mex Chicken Tenders
This healthy entrée features economical chicken tenders and plenty of fresh vegetables, rather than large amounts of more expensive meat. It can be enjoyed on its own or served over a bed of cauliflower rice to absorb the delicious, rich sauce.

The flavor is even better the next day, so consider making a double batch for a quick and healthy lunch the following day.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients:

1 T. extra virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
2 medium tomatoes, seeded and diced
2-3 fresh garlic cloves, minced
1 lb. chicken tenders
2 t. ground cumin
1 t. chili powder
1½ t. smoked paprika
1 t. dried oregano
1 14-oz. can crushed tomatoes
½ c. chicken broth, preferably organic
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional toppings:
Avocado, diced
Pickled jalapenos and red onion, to serve

Directions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large, non-stick sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion, pepper, tomatoes, and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender, around 4-5 minutes.
2. Add the chicken tenders and season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Cook until the chicken develops a bit of color on each side, around 6-7 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano and cook, stirring occasionally, until everything is well coated and the spices are fragrant, around 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken stock. Reduce heat to medium and cover with a lid. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked through and no longer pink in the middle, around 10 to 12 minutes.
5. Transfer to a serving dish and top with diced avocado or pickled jalapenos and red onion, if desired, and serve immediately with cauliflower rice or your favorite side dish. Enjoy!