Chicken Picante Recipe from Mexico with Tomatoes and Hominy

Chicken Picante

Chicken Picante Recipe from Mexico with Tomatoes and Hominy
Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Chicken Picante
Chicken Picante

Chicken Picante is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken strips with Mexican-style stewed tomatoes and corn, seasoned with chili powder and cilantro. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.

History

The origins of Chicken Picante are not clear, but it is believed to have been inspired by traditional Mexican cuisine. The combination of chicken, tomatoes, and spices creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Heat olive oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add chicken to the skillet and sauté until it is no longer pink, which should take about 3 minutes.
  3. Add tomatoes, hominy, and chili powder to the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has slightly thickened. This should take about 8 minutes. Make sure to break up the tomatoes using the back of a spoon.
  5. Mix in cilantro and season the dish with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Variations

  • Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos for extra heat.
  • Substitute black beans for the corn for a different twist.
  • Top with shredded cheese or avocado slices for added richness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform strips to ensure even cooking.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your spice preference.

- Breaking up the tomatoes with the back of a spoon helps to distribute the flavors throughout the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Picante can be served over rice or with warm tortillas for a complete meal. Garnish with additional cilantro and a squeeze of lime for added freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the chicken strips before adding the tomatoes helps to seal in the juices and develop flavor.

- Simmering the dish uncovered allows the sauce to thicken and intensify in flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use diced tomatoes with green chilies for added spice.

- Substitute chicken thighs for the chicken breasts for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Chicken Picante can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken Picante in colorful bowls or on a platter garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Add a side of Mexican rice or a green salad for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Picante with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer like a Mexican lager. For non-alcoholic options, try a refreshing agua fresca or hibiscus tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Chicken Picante in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Picante contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Picante contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Picante contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Picante contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Picante is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

Chicken Picante is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chicken Picante is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. With its combination of tender chicken, tomatoes, and spices, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Chicken Picante. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that I had collected over the years. Amongst the faded index cards and torn magazine clippings, I stumbled upon a handwritten note with the title "Chicken Picante" scrawled across the top in elegant cursive script.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, my mouth watered at the thought of the spicy, tangy flavors that would come together in this dish. I knew immediately that I had to try it out and add it to my repertoire of beloved recipes.

I began to wonder about the origins of this recipe. Who had written it down? Where had they learned to make Chicken Picante? As someone who has always been passionate about cooking and collecting recipes, I was eager to uncover the story behind this delicious dish.

I decided to ask around and see if anyone in my circle of friends and family knew anything about the origins of Chicken Picante. It wasn't long before my dear friend Clara mentioned that she had a distant relative who had spent some time in Mexico and had brought back a recipe for a spicy chicken dish that had become a family favorite.

With this new lead in hand, I reached out to Clara's relative, Mrs. Martinez, who graciously agreed to meet with me and share her story. As we sat down over cups of steaming coffee, Mrs. Martinez began to recount her time in Mexico and the culinary adventures she had experienced.

She told me that during her stay in Mexico, she had the opportunity to immerse herself in the local culture and cuisine. She had learned from skilled cooks in small villages and bustling markets, absorbing their techniques and flavors like a sponge.

One day, while wandering through a bustling market in Oaxaca, Mrs. Martinez came across a small food stall run by a vibrant woman named Maria. Maria was known for her bold and flavorful dishes, and Mrs. Martinez was immediately drawn to her cooking.

Maria took Mrs. Martinez under her wing, teaching her the secrets of traditional Mexican cuisine and sharing her family recipes. It was during one of these cooking sessions that Maria introduced Mrs. Martinez to Chicken Picante.

The dish was a symphony of flavors - tender chicken simmered in a spicy tomato sauce with onions, garlic, and a hint of citrus. Mrs. Martinez was captivated by the depth and complexity of the dish, and she knew she had to bring this recipe back home with her.

As Mrs. Martinez shared her memories and experiences with me, I felt a connection to her and to the rich culinary history that she had been a part of. I could see the passion and love for food in her eyes, and I knew that I had found the missing piece to my puzzle.

Armed with Mrs. Martinez's story and the handwritten recipe in hand, I returned home with a renewed sense of purpose. I was determined to recreate the flavors of Chicken Picante and honor the tradition and heritage that had been passed down to me.

I gathered all the ingredients - fresh chicken, ripe tomatoes, fiery jalapenos, aromatic spices - and set to work in my kitchen. As the rich aroma of simmering onions and garlic filled the air, I felt a sense of joy and anticipation building within me.

Hours passed as I lovingly tended to the dish, stirring and tasting, adjusting the seasonings until the flavors were just right. And finally, as I plated the steaming Chicken Picante and took a bite, I knew that I had succeeded.

The dish was a triumph of flavors - spicy, tangy, and utterly delicious. As I savored each bite, I felt a sense of pride and gratitude for the journey that had led me to this moment.

And so, dear reader, this is the story of how I learned to make Chicken Picante - a recipe that has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire. It is a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past, to our loved ones, and to the rich tapestry of flavors and traditions that make up our world. And for that, I am forever grateful.

Categories

| Chicken Breast Recipes | Corn Recipes | Hominy Recipes | Main Dish Poultry Recipes | Mexican Meat Dishes | Mexican Recipes | Tomato Recipes |

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