Chicken Breasts With Adobado Sauce
Juicy chicken breasts simmered in a rich, smoky adobado sauce with deep chili and citrus flavors, perfect for bold, flavorful meals for family or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove the seeds from the ancho chilies and lightly roast them to develop full flavor.
- Soak the roasted chilies in vinegar (enough water to cover) for 15 minutes, then puree the chilies and vinegar mixture.
- Brown the onions in a pan, then add the garlic puree and cumin, cooking until fragrant.
- Add the chili puree and chicken stock to the pan, stirring well.
- Let the mixture cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and thicken slightly.
- Add the chicken breasts to the sauce and simmer until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother sauce, blend the chili puree longer to eliminate any chunks. If ancho chilies are unavailable, pasilla or guajillo chilies can be used as substitutes. Adjust the sweetness by varying the brown sugar or using honey for a different flavor profile. To enhance the dish, add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness, reminiscent of flavors in Chicken Tepic.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken breasts with adobado sauce over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside warm tortillas. A fresh green salad with citrus dressing complements the dish perfectly, enhancing the flavors. For a festive touch, consider serving this dish during Cinco De Mayo or alongside Delicious Chicken Enchiladas for a delightful Mexican feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to maintain moisture. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating without drying out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Breasts With Adobado Sauce contains roughly 1054 calories, with 48g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (153% of the Daily Value), and potassium (105% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 835mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of boneless?
Yes, bone-in chicken breasts can be used, but they will require a longer cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption. The bones will also add more flavor to the sauce, making it richer and more robust.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or eggplant, and replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock. The sauce will still deliver a savory kick, making it a delicious option for non-meat eaters.
How spicy is the adobado sauce?
The spiciness of the adobado sauce primarily depends on the amount of ancho chilies used and their ripeness. Ancho chilies are generally mild; however, if you prefer more heat, consider adding a few jalapeños or serrano peppers to the sauce for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).