World Chili Chicken

Mexican Chili Chicken Recipe with Corn, Cream, Mushroom, Onion and Cheddar

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

World Chili Chicken is a delicious and comforting casserole dish that combines tender chicken, creamy soups, and flavorful chilies, all layered with tortilla strips and melted cheese. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering.

History

The origins of World Chili Chicken are not clear, but it is believed to have been inspired by traditional Mexican and Tex-Mex flavors. The combination of chicken, chilies, and cheese is a popular one in many cultures, and this casserole dish puts a unique twist on those classic ingredients.

Ingredients

4 or more whole chicken breasts, baked in foil, diced and cooled
1 package (12 count) of corn tortillas, cut into 1" strips
1 can of cream of chicken soup
1 can of mushroom soup
0.5 cup of milk
1 medium onion, grated
1 large can of sliced Ortega green chilies
1 lb (454 g) of grated cheddar cheese

How to prepare

Butter a 3 qt (2.84 liter) baking dish. Combine soup, milk, onion, and Ortegas.
Layer the ingredients - start with tortilla strips, chicken, soup mixture, and cheese - repeat this layering process, ending with cheese on top.
Set the dish in the refrigerator overnight. Bake at 350° for 1 hour.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers to the layering process for added flavor and texture.
Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique twist on the dish.
Substitute the chicken with ground beef or turkey for a different protein option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to bake the chicken breasts in foil before dicing them for this recipe. This will help keep the chicken moist and tender.

- Grating the onion adds a subtle onion flavor to the dish without any large chunks of onion.

- Layering the ingredients in the baking dish as directed will ensure that each bite is full of flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve World Chili Chicken with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs well with rice or quinoa.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique for World Chili Chicken is layering the ingredients in the baking dish and allowing the flavors to meld together overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Ortega chilies, you can use diced green chilies or jalapenos instead. You can also use homemade cream of chicken and mushroom soups in place of canned soups.

Make Ahead Tips

World Chili Chicken can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Serve World Chili Chicken in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

World Chili Chicken pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover World Chili Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of World Chili Chicken contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of World Chili Chicken contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of World Chili Chicken contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of World Chili Chicken contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

World Chili Chicken is a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and milk) and wheat (tortillas), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or wheat allergies.

Summary

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

Summary

World Chili Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying casserole dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its layers of chicken, chilies, and cheese, this dish is a comforting and delicious option for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for World Chili Chicken. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her small village in Mexico. Maria had invited me to her home for a traditional Mexican dinner, and I was thrilled at the prospect of trying some authentic dishes.

As I walked into Maria's kitchen, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of spices and herbs. Maria was busy chopping vegetables and marinating chicken in a rich, red sauce. I asked her what she was making, and she explained that it was her family's recipe for World Chili Chicken.

Over the years, I had collected many recipes from various places and people, but this one was truly special. Maria generously shared the recipe with me, and I watched closely as she prepared the dish. She explained that the key to making the perfect World Chili Chicken was to use a blend of spices that were unique to her family's recipe.

After hours of slow cooking and simmering, the dish was finally ready. The chicken was tender and juicy, infused with the flavors of the chili sauce. I took my first bite, and my taste buds exploded with a burst of spicy, savory goodness. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

From that day on, World Chili Chicken became a staple in my own recipe collection. I would often make it for family gatherings and dinner parties, impressing my guests with the exotic flavors and aromas. Each time I cooked the dish, I would think back to that hot summer day in Maria's kitchen, where I had first learned the secret to making the perfect World Chili Chicken.

As the years went by, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations. Sometimes I would use different types of chilies or swap out the chicken for pork or beef. Each time I made the dish, it would transport me back to that small village in Mexico, where I had first fallen in love with the taste of World Chili Chicken.

I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all raved about its unique and delicious flavor. They would often ask me where I had learned to make such a mouthwatering dish, and I would proudly tell them about my dear friend Maria and the unforgettable day we spent together in her kitchen.

As I grew older, I cherished the memories of that day more and more. The taste of World Chili Chicken became intertwined with the memories of my travels and adventures, reminding me of the people I had met and the places I had visited.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing a batch of World Chili Chicken for my grandchildren, I can't help but smile at the thought of passing down this beloved recipe to the next generation. I hope that they will enjoy the dish as much as I have, and that it will inspire them to explore the world of flavors and cuisines, just as it has for me.

In the end, World Chili Chicken is more than just a recipe. It is a symbol of friendship, tradition, and the joy of discovering new and delicious foods. And for that, I will always be grateful to Maria for introducing me to this amazing dish that has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.