This dish features juicy chicken breasts topped with a flavorful chipotle green onion gravy. It’s a spicy twist that’s sure to bring excitement to your dinner table!
Making this meal is pretty easy! Just cook the chicken, whip up the gravy, and you’re ready to enjoy a tasty, spicy dinner that’s perfect for any night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their quick cooking. If you want a different protein, you can substitute with chicken thighs or even turkey cutlets for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Chipotle Peppers: These add heat and a smoky flavor. If you want it milder, use just one pepper or substitute with a pinch of smoked paprika for the smokiness without the heat. Or try a bit of sriracha if you like a different kick!
Green Onions: Both white and green parts have their roles—white parts for flavor in the gravy and green for garnish. If you don’t have green onions, scallions or chives work nicely as a substitute.
Chicken Broth: This is essential for the gravy. You could swap it with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option. Just be aware that it might alter the flavor slightly.
How do I get the Gravy Just Right?
Creating a smooth and thick gravy is key, and there are a few steps to get it perfect:
- Make a roux by mixing flour with the sautéed green onions and garlic. This helps thicken the gravy.
- Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- When adding chicken broth, do it slowly while whisking to prevent lumps. The goal is a smooth sauce!
- Let the gravy simmer gently to thicken while stirring occasionally. Patience will give you that creamy texture you want.
Don’t rush this step; it’s where a lot of flavors come together, making your dish truly special!
Chicken Breasts with Chipotle Green Onion Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust to spice preference)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (white and green parts separated)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Fresh chopped green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, for a total of about 30 minutes. This quick cooking time makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner! You can have a delicious, spicy meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season Your Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). When done, remove them from the skillet and keep warm, either on a plate covered with foil or in a warm oven.
3. Make the Gravy Base:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the white parts of the chopped green onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they are fragrant and softened. This combination is the flavorful base of your gravy!
4. Create a Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed green onions and garlic. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes. This mixture will thicken your gravy, so make sure to cook it a little to get rid of the raw flour taste.
5. Add the Chicken Broth:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth.
6. Season the Gravy:
Add the chopped chipotle peppers, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and optional chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the flavors!
7. Simmer the Gravy:
Let the gravy simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally as it thickens to your desired consistency. This is where the magic happens!
8. Finish the Gravy:
Stir in the green parts of the chopped green onions to the gravy. This adds a nice fresh taste and color!
9. Combine Chicken and Gravy:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the chipotle green onion gravy over them to coat them evenly. Heat through for about a minute.
10. Serve:
Serve the chicken hot, topped with extra chopped green onions for a delightful garnish. Pair it with steamed rice and sautéed or steamed broccoli for a full meal!
11. Enjoy!
Dig into your spicy, creamy chipotle green onion gravy chicken and enjoy the blast of flavors! It’s perfect for impressing dinner guests or treating yourself on a cozy evening. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s essential to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method by sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging them in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed.
What Can I Use Instead of Chipotle Peppers?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use just one chipotle pepper or substitute it with some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness without the heat. Alternatively, a teaspoon of hot sauce can work too!
How Do I Store Leftover Gravy?
Leftover gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the gravy thickens too much after refrigeration, simply reheat it on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or water, stirring until smooth.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and the gravy ahead of time. Cook the chicken and store it separately from the gravy in the fridge. Reheat both before serving, ensuring the chicken is heated thoroughly before enjoying.
