Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Marinate the chicken a day in advance, and prepare the sauce up to 2 days ahead for an easier mealtime.

What can I substitute for adobo paste?

If you don't have adobo paste, blend chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a similar flavor.

Is there a vegetarian option?

Replace chicken with thick slices of portobello mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Gently reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Spicy Mexican Adobo Chicken with Pumpkin Seed Sauce

Name: Spicy Mexican Adobo Chicken with Pumpkin Seed Sauce
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 tbsp adobo paste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 limes, juiced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas); 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped; 3 tomatillos, husked and rinsed; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro; 1 cup chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro leaves; Lime wedges; Toasted pumpkin seeds

Savory and Spicy Dish with a Nutty Twist

A delightful fusion of spicy, savory, and nutty flavors, this dish combines tender marinated chicken with a rich pumpkin seed sauce offering a Mexican culinary experience.

2 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Chicken Adobo

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

4 tbsp adobo paste

2 tbsp olive oil

2 limes, juiced

3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Pumpkin Seed Sauce

1 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped

3 tomatillos, husked and rinsed

1/2 cup fresh cilantro

1 cup chicken broth

Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnishing

Fresh cilantro leaves

Lime wedges

Toasted pumpkin seeds

Preparation

Marinating the Chicken

Prepare the marinade

Mix adobo paste, olive oil, lime juice, and minced garlic in a bowl.

Coat the chicken

Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly with the marinade.

Chill

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible.

Preparing the Pumpkin Seed Sauce

Toast seeds

In a skillet, toast the pumpkin seeds over medium heat until they pop and turn golden.

Toast pumpkin seeds for additional flavor depth.

Blend the ingredients

Transfer to a blender along with chopped jalapeño, tomatillos, and cilantro.

Achieve consistency

Blend until smooth, gradually adding chicken broth to achieve the desired consistency.

Cooking Process

Grilling the Chicken

Preheat grill to medium-high heat and cook marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.

Ensure chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Making the Sauce

Simmer the blended sauce over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combining Flavors

Pour the hot sauce over grilled chicken and heat everything together in a skillet for 5 minutes.

Plating & Serving