Creamy Chipotle Chicken Recipe

Creamy Chipotle Chicken Recipe To Tantalize Your Taste Bud

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The scent of smoky grills, the vibrant bowls overflowing with fresh ingredients, and of course, that creamy chipotle sauce blanketing everything in deliciousness. But have you ever dreamt of recreating that magic at home? Of whipping up a Creamy Chipotle Chicken recipe that rivals (dare I say surpasses?) the Chipotle classic, without the takeout lines or mystery ingredients?

Well, dream no more, my fellow food enthusiasts! This Creamy Chipotle Chicken recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. We’re not talking about some pale imitation here. We’re diving deep into the world of smoky chilies, rich spices, and oh-so-creamy textures to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to leave you wanting more.

This isn’t just about throwing chicken in a pan and calling it a day. We’re building layers of complexity, using chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky depth, a symphony of warm spices like cumin and chili powder, and a touch of fresh lime juice for a balancing brightness. And the best part? This recipe is surprisingly easy.

In fact, with a handful of readily available ingredients and about 30 minutes of your time, you can be savoring a restaurant-worthy Chipotle Chicken experience in the comfort of your own kitchen. So, grab your favorite skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a flavor adventure with this Creamy Chipotle Chicken recipe!

Creamy Chipotle Chicken Recipe

Recipe by Marie JohnsonCourse: Uncategorized
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes
Calories

2200

kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Chicken breasts cook quickly but can dry out. Chicken thighs take a bit longer to cook but stay naturally juicy. Choose whichever cut you prefer!

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: This oil will be used to sear the chicken for a beautiful golden brown crust.

  • 1 yellow onion, diced: The onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential for that pungent aroma and savory kick.

  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with fire-roasted green chiles: This adds a chunky tomato base and a touch of smoky heat.

  • 1 (7.0-ounce) can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: Chipotle peppers are smoked jalapeños packed in a rich tomato adobo sauce. This single can adds a significant smoky depth and a touch of heat to the dish.

  • 1 cup chicken broth: Chicken broth adds moisture and flavor to the sauce.

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream: Heavy cream adds a luxurious creaminess to the finished dish. For a lighter option, you can substitute low-fat or fat-free milk, but the sauce won’t be quite as thick and rich.

  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Cumin is a warm, earthy spice that complements the smokiness of the chipotle peppers and adds a touch of complexity to the flavor profile.

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder: Chili powder adds a subtle heat and a touch of smokiness to the dish.

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Smoked paprika adds an extra layer of smokiness, but it’s not essential.

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt: Salt is essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish and drawing out the flavors of the other ingredients.

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a touch of heat and complexity.

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Cilantro adds a vibrant, fresh flavor to the dish as a garnish.

Directions

  • Searing for Success: Heat olive oil in skillet . Once the oil is hot and shimmering, season your chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt and pepper. Carefully add the chicken to the hot pan and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
    Chicken for Creamy chipotle chicken
  • Flavor Building Bonanza: Reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion to the pan. Cook the onion for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the fragrant aroma of garlic to fill your kitchen.
    Cooking of chicken
  • The Smoky Symphony: Now comes the fun part – adding the smoky depth! Pour in the diced tomatoes with fire-roasted green chilies and the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Use a spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – these flavorful bits add richness to the sauce. Simmer the mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Building the Creamy Base: Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), and salt.
  • Chicken Homecoming: Add the cooked chicken back to the pan and spoon the flavorful sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.Cooked Creamy Chipotle Chicken
  • The Grand Finale (and Optional Garnish): Turn off the heat and remove the pan from the stovetop. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed (more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice). If using, garnish your Creamy Chipotle Chicken with fresh chopped cilantro for a vibrant pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite accompaniments, like fluffy white rice, brown rice, or a side salad.Creamy Chipotle chicken a

Recipe Video

Notes

  • It’s always best to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken (165°F) to ensure it reaches proper doneness.

Tips For Creamy Chipotle Chicken Recipe

Your Creamy Chipotle Chicken recipe is poised for greatness, but a few extra tips can elevate it from delicious to truly unforgettable. Here’s a collection of tricks to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, your sauce boasts a rich and creamy texture, and the entire dish explodes with flavor:

  • Chicken Choice: Both boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs work well in this recipe. Chicken breasts cook quickly but can dry out. Chicken thighs take a bit longer but stay naturally juicy. Choose whichever cut you prefer, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • Spice Control: Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce pack a punch! If you’re new to chilies, start by adding just half of the canned chipotles. You can always add more for extra heat later in the simmering process, but remember, you can’t take it away!
  • Seed It for Less Heat (Optional): If you’re particularly sensitive to spice, you can remove the seeds from the chipotle peppers before mincing them.
  • Don’t Crowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, resist the urge to overcrowd the pan. This can lead to the chicken steaming instead of searing, resulting in a less flavorful and juicy final product.
  • Let the Sauce Simmer: Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld and develop a richer depth. Don’t rush this step!
  • Creamy Control: Heavy cream creates a luxuriously creamy sauce. For a lighter option, you can substitute low-fat or fat-free milk, but the sauce won’t be quite as thick and rich. If using milk, be mindful not to simmer the sauce for too long, as it can curdle.
  • Fresh is Best: Fresh lime juice adds a touch of brightness and acidity that balances the richness of the cream.
  • Cilantro Magic (Optional): Cilantro adds a vibrant, fresh flavor to the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, simply omit it or substitute with another fresh herb like chopped parsley.

Serving Tips Creamy Chipotle Chicken Recipe

Your Creamy Chipotle Chicken is simmering, the aroma is intoxicating, and your stomach is rumbling with anticipation. But the beauty of this dish extends beyond a simple bowl of deliciousness. It’s a culinary chameleon, ready to adapt to your serving style and dietary preferences. Here’s a burst of inspiration to transform your Creamy Chipotle Chicken into a flavor-packed centerpiece for any meal:

  • The Classic Bowl: Let’s not forget the OG way to enjoy Chipotle Chicken! Spoon your creamy chicken over fluffy white rice or brown rice for a satisfying and familiar base. Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of guacamole, and a dollop of sour cream (optional) for a true Chipotle experience. Top it all off with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of brightness.
  • The Flavorful Wrap: Craving something portable? Turn your Creamy Chipotle Chicken into a delicious wrap. Spread some warm flour tortillas with a layer of mashed black beans, top with your creamy chicken, and add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, chopped lettuce, pico de gallo, and a dollop of sour cream (optional). Wrap it all up tightly and enjoy a flavor explosion on the go!
  • The Hearty Salad: Lighten things up by transforming your Creamy Chipotle Chicken into a hearty salad. Layer a bed of fresh greens like romaine or mixed greens with chopped avocado, black beans, corn, and crumbled queso fresco cheese. Top it all off with your creamy chicken and a drizzle of your favorite vinaigrette dressing for a satisfying and flavorful salad that won’t leave you feeling weighed down.
  • The Low-Carb Option: No rice, no problem! Enjoy your Creamy Chipotle Chicken over a bed of roasted cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative. The creamy chicken and flavorful sauce will still shine through, providing a satisfying and delicious meal without the extra carbs.
  • The Quesadilla Craving: Craving cheesy goodness? Transform your Creamy Chipotle Chicken into a mouthwatering quesadilla. Spread a layer of shredded cheese on a flour tortilla, top with your creamy chicken, fold the tortilla in half, and cook in a skillet with a little oil until golden brown and melty. Slice the quesadilla into wedges and enjoy with your favorite salsa or guacamole for dipping.

Nutrition in Creamy Chipotle Chicken Recipe

We’ve created a flavor bomb of a dish with this Creamy Chipotle Chicken recipe, but it’s important to understand its nutritional profile to make informed choices about how you enjoy it. Here’s a closer look at the breakdown of this delectable dish:

  • Fat Content: Creamy Chipotle Chicken is a relatively high-fat dish due to the use of chicken skin (if using chicken thighs), heavy cream, and the oil used for searing. A single serving (around 4 ounces of chicken with ½ cup sauce) can contain around 40 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.
  • Calorie Count: The calorie content of your Creamy Chipotle Chicken will depend on the specific ingredients you use and the portion size. Here’s a general breakdown:
    • A single serving (as described above) is estimated to be around 550 calories.
    • A serving with brown rice instead of white rice will shave off a few calories.
    • Using low-fat or fat-free milk instead of heavy cream will significantly reduce the fat and calorie content.
  • Protein Powerhouse: The good news? This dish is also packed with protein! A single serving can contain around 40 grams of protein, making it a great choice for building and maintaining muscle mass.

Making Informed Choices:

While Creamy Chipotle Chicken is undeniably delicious, it’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re following a low-fat diet. Here are some tips for incorporating it into your meals without going overboard:

  • Portion Control: Use a measuring cup to ensure you’re sticking to a reasonable serving size of chicken and sauce.
  • Lean Protein Option: Choose chicken breasts for a lower-fat protein source compared to chicken thighs.
  • Creamy Alternatives: Experiment with lower-fat alternatives like low-fat or fat-free milk or even Greek yogurt to reduce the overall fat content of the sauce.
  • Balanced Plate: Pair your Creamy Chipotle Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad to add essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your meal.

Conclusion

With this Creamy Chipotle Chicken recipe in your arsenal, you’ve officially graduated from the mystery tubs of store-bought sauces and the longing glances at takeout menus. You now possess the magic touch to create restaurant-worthy Chipotle Chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Remember, this recipe is just a springboard for your culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with different cuts of chicken – perhaps boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juicy goodness. Maybe you crave a touch of sweetness? Add a drizzle of honey to the simmering sauce for a sweet and smoky balance. Perhaps you’re a chipotle pepper fanatic? Throw in an extra chipotle pepper for an extra dose of smoky heat. The possibilities are endless!

So next time that craving for smoky, creamy, and savory goodness hits, ditch the takeout menus and the delivery apps. Fire up your stove, grab your favorite ingredients, and unleash your inner flavor alchemist. Your taste buds will thank you, and you might just surprise yourself with your Chipotle Chicken prowess.

This recipe isn’t just about replicating a restaurant dish; it’s about celebrating the joy of creating something delicious and familiar in your own home. It’s about infusing your meals with a burst of flavor and the satisfaction of knowing you made it yourself. So go forth, simmer your creamy sauce, sear your chicken to perfection, and let the flavor fiesta begin! This Creamy Chipotle Chicken recipe is just the beginning of your culinary adventures.

FAQs

What is chipotle cream sauce made of?

Chipotle cream sauce is typically made from a blend of ingredients including sour cream or mayonnaise, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, lime juice, garlic, and seasonings such as cumin and salt. The chipotle peppers add a smoky, spicy flavor, while the dairy base provides creaminess.

What is chipotle chicken made of?

Chipotle chicken is made from chicken that is marinated in a mixture of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, garlic, oregano, cumin, black pepper, and other spices. The marinated chicken is then grilled or cooked until tender and flavorful.

What is Chipotle flavor made of?

Chipotle flavor comes from smoked and dried jalapeño peppers. It has a distinctive smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet taste. This flavor is often enhanced with other ingredients like garlic, cumin, and oregano in various chipotle-based sauces and marinades.

What does chipotle sauce taste like?

Chipotle sauce has a smoky, spicy flavor with a hint of sweetness. The smokiness comes from the chipotle peppers, while the adobo sauce adds a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet note. The overall taste is creamy, tangy, and savory with a moderate level of heat.

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