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As the sun sets, the smell of sizzling chicken and spices fills the air. It invites everyone to the table for a taste of Mexico. Pollo a la diabla, or “Chicken Thighs in Red Chile,” is a favorite dish loved by many. Today, I invite you to join me on this flavorful journey.

In my Mexican-American home, the smell of this spicy chicken was always welcome. It brought joy to family dinners and cozy nights. Now, I’m excited to share this recipe with you, so you can enjoy the same flavors I have loved for years.

Key Takeaways

• Pollo a la diabla is a classic Mexican dish known for its spicy kick and rich flavors.
• This recipe uses a blend of guajillo and chipotle peppers, along with tomatoes, garlic, and onion, to create a flavorful sauce.
• Chicken thighs are the preferred choice for their tenderness and juiciness, though breasts can be used as well.
• The dish is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight meal, with a total cooking time of around 35 minutes.
• Serving suggestions include traditional Mexican side dishes and garnishes to complement the bold flavors.

Understanding Pollo a la Diabla: Chicken Thighs in Red Chile

Pollo a la diabla, or “Chicken Thighs in Red Chile,” is a spicy dish from Mexico. It’s known for its bold flavors. This recipe is loved across Mexico, with different twists in each region.

Origins and Cultural Significance

The name “a la diabla” means it’s made with hot chiles. The Larousse Cocina Dictionary says this method is common in seafood dishes. But pollo a la diabla shows how versatile Mexican cooking can be.

Traditional Preparation Methods

Chicken Thighs in Red Chile uses dried chiles like guajillo and chipotle for its sauce. The chicken is seared or baked first, then simmered in the sauce. This makes it tender and juicy. Some recipes add tomatoes, onions, and garlic to balance the heat.

Regional Variations

In Mexico, Chicken Thighs in Red Chilecan vary a lot. Some are very spicy, while others are smoky and rich. These differences show how diverse Mexican cooking is, depending on where you are.

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Pollo a la diabla, or “Mexican devil’s chicken,” is a spicy dish from Mexico. It’s known for its bold flavors. This iconic recipe has won hearts and palates worldwide.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Chicken Thighs in Red Chile

To make the perfect Pollo a la Diabla, or Mexican Devil’s Chicken, you need the right mix of red chile sauce ingredients and authentic Mexican ingredients. At the core of this dish are dried guajillo chiles, which add a deep flavor. Chipotle chiles in adobo sauce bring smoky depth, while Roma tomatoes, white or red onion, and fresh garlic cloves create the base aroma.

For balance, you’ll need chicken broth, kosher salt, and a bit of canola or olive oil. The main attraction is the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks. They soak up all the spicy flavors. Remember, fresh lime wedges and a dollop of sour cream help cool down the heat.

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Choosing and preparing the chile peppers is key to making authentic Chicken Thighs in Red Chile. By mixing the heat and flavors of guajillo and chipotle chiles, you get a rich sauce. This sauce perfectly complements the tender, juicy chicken thighs.

The Art of Selecting and Preparing Chile Peppers

Making Pollo a la Diabla, or Chicken Thighs in Red Chile, needs the right mix of spices. Chile peppers are key. Choosing the right ones is important for the perfect heat and flavor.

Guajillo Chiles: The Heart of the Sauce

The guajillo chile is at the core of the red chile sauce. These mild, dried red peppers add a fruity flavor. When soaked, they turn the sauce a beautiful crimson and add a gentle heat.

Chipotle in Adobo: Adding Smoky Depth

Chipotle chiles in adobo sauce add a smoky layer. Dried, smoked jalapeño peppers and tangy adobo sauce create a complex flavor. It’s irresistible.

Handling and Storing Dried Chiles

• Soak dried chiles in hot water for about 30 minutes before using. This softens them and brings out their flavors.
• Keep dried chiles in an airtight container in a cool, dark spot. This keeps their flavor and heat strong.
• Wear gloves when handling dried chiles to avoid irritation. Wash your hands well after to remove any heat.

Choosing and preparing the right chile peppers brings out Chicken Thighs in Red Chile’s true taste. It’s a dish that excites with its heat, smoke, and rich flavors.

Explore more bold chicken flavors with this Sumac Chicken recipe.

Step-by-Step Cooking Method

Making the perfect chicken thighs in red chile is a journey worth taking. The flavors you get are amazing. Follow this guide to learn how to cook and make the red chile sauce.

1. Begin by soaking the dried guajillo and chipotle chiles. Put them in a bowl, cover with hot water, and wait 30 minutes for them to soften.
2. While the chiles soak, season the chicken thighs. Use chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high. Add oil and brown the chicken thighs on both sides, about 3-4 minutes each side. Move the chicken to a plate.
4. In the same skillet, add the soaked chiles, their liquid, tomatoes, onions, and garlic. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to mix the flavors.
5. Blend the chile mixture in a blender until smooth. Put it back in the skillet and add the chicken thighs.
6. Lower the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer in the red chile sauce for 30 minutes. The meat should be tender and the sauce thick.

This method ensures the chicken is cooked just right. It absorbs all the rich, spicy flavors of the red chile sauce. Serve the chicken thighs in red chile with your favorite sides for a real Mexican feast.

Mastering the Perfect Red Chile Sauce

The secret to a great red chile sauce recipe is in choosing and preparing the chili peppers. At its core, the sauce uses guajillo chiles for their deep flavor. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce add smoky notes and heat.

Blending Techniques

To get the right texture, blend the chiles, tomatoes, garlic, and onion until smooth. This makes the sauce velvety and even. It also mixes the flavors well, creating a balanced taste.

Achieving the Right Consistency

The perfect red chile sauce has a balance of thickness and flow. Adjusting the chicken broth helps control the sauce’s thickness. This way, it sticks to the chicken just right.

Balancing Heat Levels

For a milder sauce, use fewer chipotle peppers or just the adobo sauce. For more heat, add chile de arbol peppers. This lets you adjust the spice level to your liking.

“The beauty of this red chile sauce lies in its versatility. By carefully managing the heat levels, you can create a dish that is tailored to your personal preferences and the tastes of your guests.”

Tips for Achieving Tender, Juicy Chicken Thighs in Red Chile

Creating a delicious juicy chicken recipe starts with chicken thighs. They are better than breasts for rich, flavorful dishes. To get your tender chicken thighs just right, follow these easy tips:

1. Choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. The bone and skin keep the meat moist and add flavor.
2. Brown the chicken thighs before simmering them in sauce. This step creates a tasty crust that locks in juices.
3. Cook the chicken until it hits 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer ensures it’s cooked but not overdone.
4. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This makes it juicier and more tender.

By using these tips, you’ll make the most tender chicken thighs and juicy chicken recipe your loved ones will love. Enjoy the bold flavors of this Mexican dish with every bite.

“The secret to perfectly cooked chicken thighs lies in the bone-in, skin-on cut and a few simple techniques.”

Success comes from focusing on the details, from choosing the right chicken to how you cook it. With a bit of care, you can bring out the best in this favorite ingredient. Your guests will be asking for more.

Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments

When you serve your Mexican side dishes with spicy chicken thighs, choose some traditional sides. Start with a fluffy steamed white rice or a flavorful Mexican rice dish. For a real touch, add creamy refried beans to contrast with the chicken’s bold flavors.

For a pop of color, offer garnish options for spicy chicken. Give your guests lime wedges, a dollop of sour cream, avocado slices, queso fresco, cilantro, or pickled red onions. These fresh touches will make your meal even more special.

For a side that’s a bit different, try a crisp arugula salad with lime juice, olive oil, and salt. And don’t forget the warm corn or flour tortillas. They’re perfect for making your own tasty bites.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Spicy Chicken Thighs in Red Chile is perfect for meal prep and make-ahead cooking. Its flavors get better with time, making it great for busy days or weekend gatherings.

You can make the red chile sauce ahead of time and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat it gently before adding the Chicken Thighs in Red Chile. This saves you time on serving day.

Cooked Spicy Chicken Thighs in Red Chile can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Be careful not to overcook it.

For longer storage, freeze the whole dish for up to 4 months. Cool it down first, then put it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.

Using these storing spicy chicken tips lets you enjoy this Mexican dish all week. Or, have a meal ready for unexpected guests. Enjoy the taste of Chicken Thighs in Red Chile without the hassle.

Nutritional Benefits and Dietary Considerations

The Spicy Chicken Thighs in Red Chile dish is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and a low-carb chicken dishes recipe. It’s perfect for those on a keto or paleo diet.

Each serving has about 781 calories, 43g of fat, 60g of carbs, and 43g of protein. It’s a filling and healthy meal. It’s also packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, calcium, iron, and potassium.

The guajillo and chipotle chiles in the recipe have health benefits. They help fight inflammation and boost well-being.

If you’re on a healthy Mexican recipes path or just want a tasty low-carb chicken dishes option, try the Spicy Chicken Thighs in Red Chile. It’s a great choice for both flavor and health.

Conclusion

Chicken thighs in red chile is a tasty and flexible Mexican dish you can make at home. It has a rich, spicy sauce and tender Chicken Thighs in Red Chile. This classic recipe will quickly become a favorite for those who love bold tastes.

By trying out different chile mixes and serving ways, you can make this dish your own. It’s perfect for anyone who loves Mexican food or wants to try something new.

Chicken thighs in red chile brings a delicious taste of Mexico right to your kitchen. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can make this beloved dish. Then, you can share it with your loved ones.

So, go ahead and explore the world ofChicken Thighs in Red Chile. It’s a great way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine at home. With a bit of effort and the right recipe, you’ll have a memorable dining experience.

FAQ

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Spicy Chicken Thighs in Red Chile

Pollo a la Diabla, or “Chicken Thighs in Red Chile,” is a bold and flavorful Mexican dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich, spicy red chile sauce. This classic recipe uses a combination of guajillo and chipotle peppers, along with tomatoes, garlic, and onion, to create a smoky, aromatic sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Blender or food processor
• Knife and cutting board
• Medium mixing bowl
• Airtight storage containers (if storing or freezing)

Ingredients

  

• Chicken
• 2-3 pounds bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Sauce
• 6 dried guajillo chiles
• 3.5 ounces chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 Roma tomatoes chopped
• 1 red onion diced
• 6 garlic cloves peeled
• 1/2 lime for juice
• Seasonings
• Chili powder
• Smoked paprika
• Dried oregano
• Cumin
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Garnishes Optional
• Lime wedges
• Sour cream
• Sliced avocado
• Crumbled queso fresco
• Chopped cilantro
• Pickled red onions

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Chiles:
• Soak dried guajillo chiles in hot water for 30 minutes to soften them.
• Season the Chicken:
• In a bowl, mix chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mix over the chicken thighs.
• Brown the Chicken:
• Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and sear the chicken thighs on both sides until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
• Make the Sauce:
• In the same skillet, sauté the soaked guajillo chiles, chipotle peppers, their soaking liquid, tomatoes, onion, and garlic for 10 minutes. Transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.
• Simmer the Chicken in Sauce:
• Return the blended sauce to the skillet. Add chicken thighs and simmer on low heat, covered, for 30 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.
• Serve:
• Plate the chicken and drizzle with red chile sauce. Serve with steamed rice, refried beans, or tortillas. Garnish with lime wedges, sour cream, or other toppings as desired.

Notes

Adjusting Spice Levels: For a milder sauce, use fewer chipotle peppers or omit the seeds. For more heat, add chile de arbol peppers.
Storage:
Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freeze the sauce or the entire dish for up to 4 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutritional Highlights:
High in protein, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
Suitable for gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, keto, and paleo diets.