Name: Cheesy Green Chile Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 6 tomatillos (husked); 2 cans Old El Paso Chopped Green Chiles ((4 ounces each)); 2 garlic (cloves); 1 teaspoon chili powder; to taste kosher salt (and pepper); 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast; 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese; 1 poblano pepper (sliced); 2 tablespoons olive oil

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When I think of comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like Cheesy Green Chile Chicken. This dish has a delightful way of bringing warm, vibrant flavors to the table, and it’s a personal favorite of mine. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of roasted tomatillos and melted cheese filled my kitchen, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. Each bite is a perfect balance of spice and creaminess, making it an instant hit for dinner gatherings and quiet family nights alike. The simplicity of just eight ingredients allows anyone to whip it up, even after a long day. Whether you’re enjoying it with rice or as a filling for tortillas, Cheesy Green Chile Chicken is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Blender, Cutting Board, Skillet, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

Why This Cheesy Green Chile Chicken Is So Good

Quick to Prepare

One of the things I love about Cheesy Green Chile Chicken is how quick it comes together. With just a bit of prep and some baking, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve. This means more time for you to relax or enjoy the company of your loved ones, instead of spending hours in the kitchen.

Rich and Flavorful

The combination of tomatillos, green chiles, and pepper jack cheese creates a rich and tangy flavor profile that’s hard to resist. These ingredients meld beautifully together, offering a taste that’s both unique and comforting. It’s a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance!

Versatile and Customizable

You can easily adjust Cheesy Green Chile Chicken to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Add more spices for an extra kick, or throw in some vegetables for a heartier dish. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple for any occasion.

Perfect for Leftovers

This dish is not only delightful fresh out of the oven but also makes for excellent leftovers. The flavors deepen overnight, making it a quick and satisfying lunch option the next day. You can enjoy it as is or transform it into a new meal entirely.

Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike will love Cheesy Green Chile Chicken. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it an easy sell for picky eaters. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce new flavors without overwhelming anyone’s palate.

Ingredients Overview for Cheesy Green Chile Chicken

When it comes to the ingredients for Cheesy Green Chile Chicken, each one plays a crucial role in creating the delicious flavors and textures of the dish. The star ingredients, tomatillos and green chiles, provide a unique tanginess that pairs beautifully with the creamy pepper jack cheese and tender chicken breast. Let’s dive into what makes each ingredient special:

6 tomatillos, husked – These little green gems bring a tart flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
2 (4 ounce) cans Old El Paso Chopped Green Chiles – A great shortcut to add depth and a mild kick.
2 cloves garlic – Essential for building a savory base and enhancing overall flavor.
1 teaspoon chili powder – Adds warmth and a touch of smokiness that elevates the dish.
kosher salt and pepper – The perfect seasoning to enhance and balance all the flavors.
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast – The main protein that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a spicy creaminess.
1 poblano pepper, sliced – Provides a slight heat and a vibrant crunch.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Essential for cooking and adds richness.

The Process for Making Cheesy Green Chile Chicken

Making Cheesy Green Chile Chicken is a straightforward process that’s sure to impress. Follow these steps and watch the magic happen in your kitchen!

Preheat your broiler to high. This step is crucial for achieving that delicious char on the tomatillos. You want them nice and roasted!
Place the tomatillos in a large skillet and transfer it to the oven. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes, turning halfway through. Look for them to start charring all over, which enhances their flavor.
Once charred, remove the skillet from the oven and reduce the oven temperature to 400 degrees F. Carefully handle the skillet, as it will be hot!
Transfer the tomatillos to a blender. Add in the green chiles, garlic, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse until just combined. You want to create a smooth sauce.
Now, take the chicken breast and slice it horizontally through the middle, but not all the way through, creating a pocket. Open it up like a book. This is where the fun begins!
Stuff the pocket with a generous amount of pepper jack cheese and a few slices of poblano pepper. Close the chicken back over the filling.
Place the stuffed chicken in the same skillet you used to broil the tomatillos. Add the remaining slices of poblano pepper around it. Drizzle everything lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Transfer the skillet back to the oven and bake for 10 minutes. The chicken should start cooking through.
After 10 minutes, remove the skillet, pour the tomatillo sauce over the chicken, and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Once done, serve with rice or tortillas and enjoy the delicious flavors of Cheesy Green Chile Chicken!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking the Chicken: Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F for safety.
Texture of the Sauce: You want your tomatillo sauce to be smooth but not too runny. Adjust the ingredients as needed.
Roasting Tips: Roasting the tomatillos enhances the flavor; don’t skip this step!
Ingredient Quality: Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference in flavor. Choose ripe tomatillos and quality chicken.

Customization Ideas

One of the beauties of Cheesy Green Chile Chicken is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Add Veggies: Consider incorporating roasted zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
Spice Levels: If you enjoy heat, add more chili powder or include some diced jalapeños in the stuffing.
Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a unique twist.
Serving Options: Serve it over quinoa or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to elevate the freshness of the dish.
Leftover Transformations: Use leftovers in tacos or burrito bowls for a quick meal the next day.

Side Dish Ideas for Cheesy Green Chile Chicken

Pairing Cheesy Green Chile Chicken with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

Spanish Rice: A classic side that complements the flavors of the chicken beautifully.
Black Beans: Serve alongside seasoned black beans for a hearty addition that provides extra protein.
Fresh Guacamole: The creaminess of guacamole pairs perfectly with the spicy chicken.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with a zesty dressing can balance the richness of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition.
Corn Tortillas: Offer warm tortillas to scoop up the chicken and sauce for a fun, hands-on approach!

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare Cheesy Green Chile Chicken in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of baking, and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake it in the oven until it’s heated through and the chicken is fully cooked. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights!

Cheesy Green Chile Chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with Spanish rice, black beans, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it wrapped in corn tortillas or over quinoa for a nutritious twist. The creamy, cheesy chicken complements these sides beautifully, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Yes, Cheesy Green Chile Chicken freezes quite well! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or microwave until it’s warmed through.

The level of spice in Cheesy Green Chile Chicken can be adjusted to your taste. The green chiles add a mild heat, but if you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños. It’s all about how much heat you can handle!

Conclusion

Cheesy Green Chile Chicken truly shines as an easy yet delicious dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. Its combination of zesty ingredients and creamy textures makes it stand out from the usual dinner fare. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your home!