Chicken With Okra
A flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered with okra, tomatoes, and aromatic seasonings, perfect for those who enjoy hearty, savory Southern cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the tops off the okra, making sure to only remove the tops.
- Wash the okra and place it in a bowl of cold water with vinegar.
- Let it sit for a couple of minutes, then drain.
- Rinse the okra with water, drain again, and pat dry.
- Brown the okra in olive oil and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and cook until translucent.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add canned tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, chicken bouillon granules, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes to develop flavors.
- Add the browned okra to the skillet and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
When preparing okra, be careful not to overcook it, as it can become slimy. If you want a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the skillet along with the onions. For a twist, you can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a richer flavor, similar to what you might find in Jamaican Chicken Fricassee.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken With Okra over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh green salad or sautéed greens would complement the dish well. For a complete meal experience, consider pairing it with a side of Etta'S Nibblets for added crunch and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and okra mixture in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. This will help maintain the dish's flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken With Okra contains roughly 699 calories, with 32g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (64% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 795mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen okra instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen okra. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking, as frozen okra tends to have more moisture. This will help avoid excess sliminess in the dish.
What can I substitute for canned tomatoes?
If you don't have canned tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just peel and chop about 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes, or use tomato sauce as an alternative, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, especially if using thicker chicken breasts.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).