Creamy Hatch Chile Chicken Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 5 Hatch chile peppers
• 1 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, cut into strips
• 1 cup frozen corn
• tablespoon chicken bouillon granules
• teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup Mexican crema

Directions

Step 1: Place Hatch chiles directly on the grates of a gas stove. Cook them over medium heat, flipping occasionally with tongs until they are blackened and charred, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Transfer the chiles to a zippered plastic bag, seal it, and let them cool for 7 to 8 minutes.

Step 3: Peel off the charred skins, remove the seeds, and cut the flesh into 1-inch squares.

Step 4: In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and saut until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in the frozen corn and cook for a few minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Add the prepared Hatch chiles, followed by the chicken bouillon granules and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 7: Add the shredded chicken and Mexican crema. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until everything is heated through.

Recipe Tip

Crme frache can be used as a substitute for Mexican crema.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	440
Total Fat	34g	43%
Saturated Fat	19g	95%
Cholesterol	134mg	45%
Sodium	305mg	13%
Total Carbohydrate	21g	8%
Dietary Fiber	3g	12%
Total Sugars	8g
Protein	19g	37%
Vitamin C	5mg	5%
Calcium	19mg	1%
Iron	1mg	5%
Potassium	220mg	5%

Author: Yoly

History of the Dish

Creamy Hatch Chile Chicken is a modern take on Southwestern cuisine, influenced by the flavors of New Mexico. Hatch chiles, named after the Hatch Valley in New Mexico, have a long history in Southwestern cooking. These chiles are beloved for their rich, earthy flavor and mild to moderate heat, making them a staple in local dishes such as chile con carne, stews, and various Mexican-inspired recipes. The addition of rotisserie chicken, corn, and Mexican crema to the Hatch chiles in this recipe reflects the fusion of traditional Southwestern ingredients with contemporary cooking methods, resulting in a comforting and flavorful dish thats perfect for busy weeknights.

Regional Features

The use of Hatch chiles in this dish highlights the regional significance of these peppers in New Mexican cuisine. Grown primarily in Hatch Valley, New Mexico, these chiles are harvested each fall and celebrated for their unique flavor. The peppers are known for their smoky and slightly sweet taste, which varies in heat depending on the batch. In New Mexico, Hatch chiles are so iconic that their harvest is celebrated annually with festivals and culinary events. These chiles are often roasted and used in everything from salsas to enchiladas, adding a distinct and spicy kick to any dish.

Distinction from Similar Dishes

Creamy Hatch Chile Chicken stands out from similar creamy chicken recipes by its distinct use of Hatch chiles. Unlike other chiles, Hatch peppers offer a unique combination of mild heat and smokiness, which gives the dish a deep, complex flavor. The addition of Mexican crema adds a smooth, tangy richness, which balances the spice of the chiles. Unlike classic chicken casseroles or creamy chicken stroganoff, this dish incorporates the bold and smoky flavors of the Southwest, setting it apart from more traditional comfort food recipes.

Where It's Typically Served

This dish is a common feature at Southwestern dinner tables, especially in New Mexico, where Hatch chiles are a prized ingredient. However, it's also popular in various other parts of the United States, particularly in areas with strong Mexican or Southwestern culinary influences. It is commonly served with rice, tortillas, or corn chips to soak up the creamy sauce. This dish is ideal for family dinners, as it is both quick and easy to prepare. It also makes a great dish to bring to potlucks or gatherings, where its rich flavors and creamy texture are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Interesting Facts

• The Hatch chile is often called the "King of Chiles" because of its unique taste and versatility in cooking.
• Every year, Hatch, New Mexico, holds the Hatch Chile Festival, where thousands of visitors come to celebrate the harvest with local food, music, and events.
• Hatch chiles are not only used in savory dishes like Creamy Hatch Chile Chicken but also in desserts such as chile-infused ice cream and chocolate.
• Though Hatch chiles are mild to moderate in heat, they can still vary from one batch to the next, so its important to taste them before cooking to gauge the level of spice.

FAQ about Creamy Hatch Chile Chicken Recipe

Comments