A delicious, creamy sauce adds a rich and comforting touch to tender chicken, making it perfect for a cozy dinner. It’s simple to prepare and sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Prep Time20 min
Cook Time2 hr
Total Time2 hr 20 min
Difficulty
Hard
Expert Cooking Tips
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking and a tender texture.
Let the sauce simmer gently to develop deeper flavors without curdling the cream.
Season the chicken well before cooking to enhance the overall taste.
Ingredients
0/14
Why This Recipe Works
This dish combines tender chicken with a rich, smooth sauce that feels comforting and indulgent. It’s easy to prepare but tastes like something special, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.
Step 1
Place the chicken breast-side up in a large pot, then add the chicken broth, water, Mexican crema, tomatoes, red and jalapeno peppers, onion, garlic, oregano, bay leaf, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is covered with the liquid. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat, then lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about an hour.
Step 2
After that, use tongs to carefully flip the chicken over. Cover again and continue simmering until the chicken is fully cooked—this should take around 30 minutes. You can check doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F.
Step 3
Once the chicken is done, take it out and set it aside. Turn the heat up to high and bring the sauce to a boil, skimming off any fat that floats to the top. Let it boil for 5 to 10 minutes until it thickens a bit.
Step 4
Cut the chicken into pieces that are easy to serve, then add it back into the pot. Stir in the chopped cilantro and cook just until the chicken is warmed through, about 5 minutes. Then you’re ready to dig in!
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people cooked this recipe
ByRyan Parker
Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.
Best Serving Ideas
Serve this creamy dish over a bed of fluffy rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered pasta. A side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the sauce.
How To Store For Later
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth. Avoid freezing, as the sauce may separate when thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken parts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken parts; adjust cooking time to ensure they reach 165°F internally.
What can I substitute for Mexican crema if I don’t have any?
Sour cream is a great substitute and will provide a similar creamy texture and tang.
How spicy will this dish be with the jalapenos and cayenne?
It has a mild to medium heat; you can reduce or omit jalapenos and cayenne to make it less spicy.
Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, place all ingredients in the slow cooker, cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken reaches 165°F.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; the thickest part of the thigh should read 165°F.
What’s the best way to thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
Boil the sauce uncovered for 5-10 minutes, skimming fat, until it reduces and thickens.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the cooked chicken and sauce separately, then reheat gently before serving.
Is it necessary to flip the chicken during cooking?
Flipping helps cook the chicken evenly, but you can keep it breast-side up if you monitor doneness carefully.
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