Atlas Amber Braised Chicken

Finding flavorful meals that protect your kidney health doesn't mean you have to settle for bland food. The Atlas Amber Braised Chicken is a vibrant, one-pot wonder inspired by traditional North African flavors. By focusing on aromatic spices like cumin, cinnamon, and turmeric, we build a deep flavor profile that reduces the need for added salt, making it an excellent choice for those managing blood pressure or renal health.

Why This Recipe Works for Kidney Health

For individuals tracking renal nutrition, managing the balance of sodium, potassium, and phosphorus is essential. This recipe utilizes red bell peppers instead of tomatoes; while tomatoes are high in potassium, red bell peppers provide a similar sweetness and vibrant color with a much lower potassium footprint. We also avoid the high-sodium 'preserved lemons' typical of Moroccan cuisine, opting instead for fresh zest and juice to provide a bright, acidic finish.

Choosing skinless chicken thighs provides a high-quality protein source that is easier for the body to process than many plant-based proteins which can be high in phosphorus. Using a 'low and slow' braising technique allows the warm spices to penetrate the meat, ensuring every bite is savory without relying on processed seasonings.

The Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup sliced carrots
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1 cup no-salt-added chicken broth
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add chicken thighs and brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté onion, bell pepper, and carrots for 5 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in garlic, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in chicken broth and honey, scraping the bottom of the pan to release flavor.
6. Return chicken to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover.
7. Cook for 20-25 minutes until chicken is tender.
8. Stir in lemon juice before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition Per Serving

Makes 4 servings