Description
Experience the bold flavors of the Southwest with this Cast Iron Green Chile Chicken recipe. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned and roasted in a cast iron skillet over a charcoal grill, then simmered in a flavorful homemade green chile sauce made with fresh green chilies, garlic, and spices. This dish offers a deliciously smoky and spicy profile perfect for a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Green Chile Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp white flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup chopped green chile peppers
- 2/3 cup finely chopped white onion
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Dash of ground cumin
Chicken Ingredients
- 1 full breasted chicken (approximately 2 chicken breasts)
- 1/4 stick butter (about 2 tbsp)
- 1/4 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Green Chile Sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onions and roast until tender. Stir in flour, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper, cooking for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken stock and let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes. Add chopped green chiles and continue simmering for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let cool for 30 minutes.
- Season the Chicken: While the sauce cools, pat the chicken breasts dry and evenly season with oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the Grill and Skillet: Light Cowboy Hardwood Lump Charcoal in a charcoal chimney or pile inside your grill and let it burn for 10-15 minutes until it reaches medium heat. Optional: Add 3-4 small pieces of hickory wood atop the charcoal for added smoky flavor. Place the cast iron skillet over the fire to preheat for 5-10 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the preheated cast iron skillet. Roast each side for 9 minutes over medium heat.
- Simmer in Green Chile Sauce: Pour the prepared green chile sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, stirring and basting the chicken frequently to lock in the flavors.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and serve immediately, spooning extra green chile sauce on top for a flavorful finish. Enjoy your Southwest-inspired meal!
Notes
- Using a cast iron skillet over a charcoal grill imparts a delicious smoky flavor to the chicken.
- Adjust the level of green chilies based on your heat preference for a milder or spicier dish.
- Letting the sauce cool slightly before adding it to the chicken helps thicken it and enhances the flavor meld.
- Butter adds richness to the chicken but can be omitted for a lower fat version.
- Serve with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
