Santa Fe Grilled Chicken

Santa Fe Grilled Chicken Recipe - A Delicious USA Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 10-15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Santa Fe Grilled Chicken is a flavorful and spicy dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. The marinade infuses the chicken with a smoky, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the charred grill marks. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

History

The origins of Santa Fe Grilled Chicken can be traced back to the southwestern United States, where bold flavors and spicy ingredients are common in traditional cuisine. This dish combines classic grilling techniques with a unique blend of seasonings to create a dish that is both delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients

4 boneless chicken breasts, about 2 lb (907 g) total

Marinade

1 cup water
3 tbsp soy sauce
4.5 tsp granular splenda or equivalent liquid splenda (sugar substitute)
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp white vinegar
1.5 tsp chipotle chile powder
1 tsp liquid smoke
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp onion powder
0.5 tsp pepper

How to prepare

In a large bowl or zipper bag, combine all the marinade ingredients.
Add the chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for 2 hours, ensuring not to exceed the marinating time.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and drain any excess liquid.
Grill the chicken on an indoor or outdoor grill until it is no longer pink in the center.
Serve the grilled chicken on its own or as part of a fajita salad.

Variations

Add diced jalapenos to the marinade for an extra kick of heat.
Substitute the chipotle chile powder with smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
Use bone-in chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier and more flavorful dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

- For extra flavor, baste the chicken with the marinade while grilling.

- Serve the grilled chicken with fresh lime wedges for a burst of citrus flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Santa Fe Grilled Chicken with a side of grilled vegetables and a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the best cooking technique for Santa Fe Grilled Chicken, as it imparts a smoky flavor and creates beautiful grill marks on the meat. Make sure to preheat your grill before cooking the chicken to ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have chipotle chile powder, you can use regular chili powder or cayenne pepper for a similar flavor profile. You can also substitute the liquid smoke with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor without the added liquid.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to grill. This allows the flavors to develop even further and makes for a quick and easy meal prep.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Santa Fe Grilled Chicken on a platter with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges for a colorful and vibrant presentation. You can also garnish the dish with sliced avocado or pico de gallo for added flavor and texture.

Pairing Recommendations

Santa Fe Grilled Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including Mexican rice, black beans, corn salad, or grilled corn on the cob. For a refreshing beverage, serve with a cold glass of iced tea or a margarita.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Santa Fe Grilled Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until heated.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Santa Fe Grilled Chicken contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Santa Fe Grilled Chicken contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Santa Fe Grilled Chicken contains approximately 3 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Santa Fe Grilled Chicken contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Santa Fe Grilled Chicken is a good source of vitamin B6, niacin, and selenium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and may contain traces of gluten.

Summary

Santa Fe Grilled Chicken is a low-carb, high-protein dish that is packed with flavor and nutrients. It is a healthy and delicious option for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying meal.

Summary

Santa Fe Grilled Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. With a bold marinade and a smoky char from the grill, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this dish with your favorite side dishes and a cold beverage for a satisfying and delicious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a hot summer day in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and I was visiting a friend who had invited me over for dinner. As soon as I walked through the door, I was hit with the most amazing aroma of grilled chicken and spices. My friend, Maria, was in the kitchen, smiling as she flipped the chicken on the grill.

I watched in awe as she expertly marinated the chicken in a blend of spices and herbs, a mixture that I had never seen before. When she finally served the chicken, I took my first bite and was immediately hooked. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted - smoky, spicy, and perfectly balanced.

I begged Maria for the recipe, and she kindly obliged. She explained to me that the key to the dish was the marinade, a combination of chili powder, cumin, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil. She also shared with me her secret for grilling the chicken to perfection - cooking it slowly over a low flame to ensure that it stayed juicy and tender.

From that moment on, Santa Fe Grilled Chicken became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on quiet evenings at home. Each time I cooked it, I thought of Maria and the wonderful meal she had shared with me.

Over the years, I have made a few adjustments to the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own. Sometimes I substitute the lime juice for lemon, or add a touch of honey for sweetness. Other times, I experiment with different types of chili powder to give it a unique kick.

But no matter how many times I make it, Santa Fe Grilled Chicken always brings me back to that first moment of discovery in Maria's kitchen. It reminds me of the joy of sharing food with loved ones, of the power of a good meal to bring people together.

I often think about the journey this recipe has taken me on - from that fateful day in Santa Fe to my own kitchen, where I now pass it on to my grandchildren. I hope that they will cherish it as much as I do, and that it will become a part of their own culinary repertoire.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of Santa Fe Grilled Chicken, I am filled with gratitude for the friends and family who have inspired me along the way. And I am reminded once again of the magic of food - how it can connect us to our past, our present, and our future.