Green Chile Chicken

There’s something about Green Chile Chicken that immediately transports me to sunny days spent with family and friends, gathered around the dinner table. This dish is not just a treat for the taste buds; it evokes memories of laughter, sharing stories, and enjoying hearty meals together. Growing up, it was a regular at our family gatherings, especially during the warm months when we craved something vibrant and satisfying. The spicy kick of green chiles, combined with the creamy texture of cheese, creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Whenever I make Green Chile Chicken, I can’t help but smile, recalling the joy it brings to those I serve it to.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It works beautifully for casual weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, making it a staple in my kitchen. The best part? It’s easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones instead of slaving away in the kitchen. The layers of flavors—from the savory chicken to the rich cream cheese and the zesty green chiles—come together beautifully, creating a dish that feels gourmet yet is so simple to execute. Whether you serve it over rice, in a taco, or alongside a colorful salad, Green Chile Chicken is sure to impress!

Join me in creating this delicious meal that not only satisfies the stomach but also warms the heart. I can assure you, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Key Ingredients for Green Chile Chicken

The ingredients in Green Chile Chicken come together to create a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. Each plays a crucial role, making the dish not only delicious but also satisfying. From the tender chicken to the zesty green chiles, every bite is packed with personality.

• 3 pounds chicken breast – The star of the show, providing protein and a juicy base for the flavors to build upon.
• 8 ounces cream cheese – Adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the spices perfectly.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses the dish with a subtle aromatic flavor.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the overall savory profile without overwhelming other ingredients.
• ¼ teaspoon cumin – Brings warmth and depth, making the dish more complex.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing the overall taste.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a hint of heat and enhances the flavor of the chicken.
• 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles – Gives the dish its characteristic kick and vibrant color.
• ½ cup green enchilada sauce – Ties everything together with a zesty touch.
• 1 ¼ cup colby jack cheese – The final layer of cheesy goodness that melts beautifully on top.

Recipe Directions for Green Chile Chicken

Creating Green Chile Chicken is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these steps to achieve a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone coming back for more!

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to have the temperature right, as this ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect texture.
2. Prepare a 4-quart baking dish by spraying it lightly with pan spray. This will keep the dish from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
3. Take the 3 pounds of chicken breast and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for browning the chicken and enhancing flavor.
4. Place the dried chicken in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they lay flat and evenly spaced. Lightly season them with salt and pepper for added flavor.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of cream cheese with ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ¼ teaspoon of cumin, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper, 1 (4-ounce) can of diced green chiles, and ½ cup of green enchilada sauce.
6. Beat the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. This blend should be well combined to ensure each bite of the chicken is infused with flavor.
7. Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the top of the chicken breasts, making sure to cover them completely. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully during the baking process.
8. Top the mixture with 1 ¼ cups of shredded colby jack cheese. This cheesy layer will melt into a delicious topping, adding richness to the dish.
9. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check the chicken with a meat thermometer; it should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit when fully cooked.
10. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken stays moist.
11. Serve your Green Chile Chicken with rice or your choice of toppings. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!

Variations to Try

There are so many delicious variations of Green Chile Chicken to explore. Here are some ideas to inspire your next cooking adventure!

• Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes wonderfully! Just make sure it is in an airtight container, and you can keep it for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of beans or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for extra heat.

Serving Ideas for Green Chile Chicken

When it comes to serving Green Chile Chicken, the options are endless and can be tailored to any occasion. Here are some delightful serving ideas:

• Over Rice: Spoon the creamy chicken mixture over fluffy rice for a comforting and filling meal.
• Tacos: Shred the chicken and serve it in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, and diced tomatoes.
• With Tortilla Chips: Serve as a dip by combining with tortilla chips, perfect for a casual get-together.
• As a Casserole: Layer with tortillas and more cheese for a hearty casserole version that’s sure to be a hit.
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Top with freshly chopped cilantro or green onions to add brightness and freshness to each plate.
• Accompanying Sides: Pair with a light salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
• Occasions: This dish works wonderfully for family dinners, potlucks, or even holiday gatherings, providing comfort and warmth to every table.

FAQ

Conclusion

Green Chile Chicken is a comforting dish that brings a burst of flavor and warmth to any meal. With its creamy texture, spicy kick, and ease of preparation, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the deliciousness it offers. You won’t regret bringing this gem into your kitchen!

Green Chile Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Green Chile Chicken is creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. It's the perfect easy weeknight dinner that promises to satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight for a meal everyone will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 pounds chicken breast 3-4 breasts
• 8 ounces cream cheese room temperature
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 can (4-ounce) diced green chiles
• ½ cup green enchilada sauce
• 1 ¼ cup colby jack cheese shredded

Equipment

• Cutting Board
• Baking Sheet
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying pan

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to have the temperature right, as this ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect texture.
2. Prepare a 4-quart baking dish by spraying it lightly with pan spray. This will keep the dish from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
3. Take the 3 pounds of chicken breast and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for browning the chicken and enhancing flavor.
4. Place the dried chicken in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they lay flat and evenly spaced. Lightly season them with salt and pepper for added flavor.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of cream cheese with ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ¼ teaspoon of cumin, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper, 1 (4-ounce) can of diced green chiles, and ½ cup of green enchilada sauce.
6. Beat the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. This blend should be well combined to ensure each bite of the chicken is infused with flavor.
7. Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the top of the chicken breasts, making sure to cover them completely. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully during the baking process.
8. Top the mixture with 1 ¼ cups of shredded colby jack cheese. This cheesy layer will melt into a delicious topping, adding richness to the dish.
9. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check the chicken with a meat thermometer; it should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit when fully cooked.
10. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken stays moist.
11. Serve your Green Chile Chicken with rice or your choice of toppings. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!

Notes

Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for up to three days.

Freezing: This dish freezes wonderfully! Just make sure it is in an airtight container, and you can keep it for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Pairing: Serve with a side of beans or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for extra heat.

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Meet Paige Wilson

I’m our photographer and stylist, so it’s my job to make our food look as sunny and delicious as it tastes. I’m obsessed with finding that perfect light. When I’m not behind the lens, I’m in the kitchen as the official “chief taster.” I work closely with Hailey and Brooke to cook, test, and refine the flavors for every single recipe until it’s just right.