Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more? Then get ready to make Santiago's Green Chili, a vibrant and flavorful dish that's surprisingly easy to create. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or even a special occasion. It's a delicious blend of fresh green chilies, savory spices, and juicy chicken, offering a healthy and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies, undrained
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or cornbread, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. This step helps to develop a deeper flavor in the final dish.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Stir in the diced green chilies (undrained), Rotel (undrained), fire-roasted tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice or with cornbread. The vibrant green color and the aroma alone will make your mouth water!
Cooking Tips for the Best Santiagos Green Chili:
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless breasts. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Don't be afraid to adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. Conversely, spice enthusiasts can add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer the chili uncovered for the last few minutes of cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!
Variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace the chicken with 1 (15-ounce) can of black beans or 1 cup of cooked lentils for a hearty vegetarian or vegan option. Be sure to add some vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain the flavor profile.
- Beef Chili: Substitute the chicken with 1 lb of ground beef, browning it before adding the other ingredients.
- Creamy Chili: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a creamy and indulgent twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 350-400 (depending on serving size and additions)
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Santiagos Green Chili recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients transformed into a truly delicious dish. It's a perfect example of how easy and rewarding homemade cooking can be. Enjoy!