Chicken in Pumpkin-Seed Sauce

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken breasts, skin and bones removed (about 16 oz. raw weight)
  • 1/2 cup shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  • 2 12-oz. jars salsa verde (green chili salsa)
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • Black pepper (4-6 grinds)

Directions:

Heat heavy large skillet over medium-low heat. Add pepitas. Cover and stir frequently until seeds puff and begin to pop, about 5 minutes (do not brown). Transfer to a plate and allow to cool for about 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat oil in heavy frying pan over medium heat. Add the chicken, allowing it to lightly brown on each side.

Pour the pumpkin seeds into a small food processor. Add the salsa and puree. Add salsa/pumpkin seed puree to the frying pan making sure to distribute the sauce over and under all pieces of chicken. Grind a little pepper over each chicken piece. Turn the heat down to simmer, cover, and cook gently for about 15 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Makes 4 servings. Each serving provides about 372 calories, 34g protein, 22g fat, 7g carbohydrates, 1g fiber, 607mg sodium, 221mg potassium, 14mg calcium.