Certainly! Let’s delve into the details of Paul’s Green Chili Chicken, a mouthwatering dish that combines the savory goodness of bacon and chicken with the zesty flavors of green chilies, garlic, and cilantro. This recipe is straightforward and promises a flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
Paul’s Green Chili Chicken
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Category: Chicken
Keywords: Poultry, Meat, Very Low Carbs, < 60 Mins, Oven, Easy
Description:
Make and share this Paul’s Green Chili Chicken recipe from lovewithrecipes.com. This easy-to-make dish brings a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors, making it an instant favorite for those who enjoy hearty and comforting meals.
Ingredients
-
2 strips of bacon
Adds a crispy texture and rich flavor that pairs well with the chicken and creamy sauce. -
2 garlic cloves, minced
Provides a robust, aromatic base for the dish. -
4 chicken breast halves
Lean and protein-packed, these are the main component of the dish. -
1 cup chicken broth
Adds depth to the sauce, helping to deglaze the skillet and intensify the flavors. -
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Lends a fresh, citrusy flavor that balances the richness of the cream and cheese. -
4 green chilies, canned and undrained
These bring the heat and tanginess, essential for the dish’s distinctive flavor. -
1 cup heavy cream
Creates a luscious, creamy sauce that binds the flavors together. -
4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
Melts beautifully, adding a gooey, cheesy topping that’s hard to resist.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 517.4
- Fat: 43.3g
- Saturated Fat: 23.2g
- Cholesterol: 162.4mg
- Sodium: 517mg
- Carbohydrates: 5.4g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 1.9g
- Protein: 26.9g
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Starting with a preheated oven ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect texture for your chicken and cheese topping. -
Cook the bacon:
In an ovenproof skillet, fry the bacon over medium heat until it’s crisp. Remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain. Leave the bacon fat in the skillet; this will be used to sauté the chicken. -
Sauté the chicken:
Place the chicken breast halves in the skillet, sautéing in the bacon fat. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm. -
Create the sauce:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. These bits add a ton of flavor to the sauce. Simmer the broth until it reduces by half. -
Combine ingredients and bake:
Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the minced garlic, chopped cilantro, undrained green chilies, and heavy cream. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. -
Finish with cheese:
Once the chicken is done, remove the skillet from the oven. Turn on the broiler. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken. Place the skillet under the broiler for a few minutes, just until the cheese melts and turns golden brown. -
Add the final touch:
Crumble the cooked bacon and sprinkle it over the cheesy chicken before serving. This adds a final layer of flavor and texture that makes the dish truly satisfying. -
Serve and enjoy!
Serve Paul’s Green Chili Chicken hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired. It pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or a light salad.
Cooking Tips and Variations
-
Alternative Cheese Options:
If you can’t find Monterey Jack, you can use cheddar or Colby-Jack for a similar melty, cheesy finish. -
Adjusting the Heat:
If you prefer a milder dish, use fewer green chilies or opt for a milder variety. Conversely, for more spice, you can add fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers. -
Thickening the Sauce:
If you find the sauce too thin, you can thicken it by adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the sauce before baking. -
Low-Carb Pairing:
For a low-carb meal, serve this dish with steamed vegetables or a green salad instead of rice or potatoes. -
Add Vegetables:
Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition. -
Garnishing Ideas:
Fresh lime wedges and a dollop of sour cream can enhance the flavors and presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Paul’s Green Chili Chicken stands out for its simplicity and the robust flavors it brings to the table. The combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a creamy, cheesy sauce with a hint of spice from the green chilies creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s also a versatile recipe that you can tweak to your taste, making it a great go-to for any occasion.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. The rich, creamy sauce and the balance of textures make every bite a delight, and it’s a dish that’s easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight but special enough to serve for a more elaborate meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use other types of chicken instead of breast halves?
A: Yes, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as dark meat may take a bit longer to cook through.
Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cheese. Refrigerate the skillet, covered, and when ready to serve, reheat it in the oven, then add the cheese and broil as directed.
Q: Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
A: To make it dairy-free, use a dairy-free heavy cream substitute and a suitable cheese alternative. Check that the bacon used is also dairy-free.
Q: What sides go well with Paul’s Green Chili Chicken?
A: This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Paul’s Green Chili Chicken is a delightful recipe that offers a comforting yet exciting blend of flavors. Its easy preparation and rich, creamy finish make it a beloved choice for those who enjoy hearty, satisfying meals with a bit of a kick. Enjoy creating and sharing this flavorful dish!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further culinary inspiration!
