Authentic Oaxacan Cuisine: The Ultimate Recipe Guide

Ingredients

  • 1 medium-sized white onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 kg of chicken breast, boneless and skinless
  • 3 large tomatoes, diced
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 250 grams of fresh Oaxaca cheese, torn into chunks
  • 2 large poblano peppers, roasted, peeled, seeded, and sliced into strips
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 bunch of fresh coriander, chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until they become soft and fragrant.
  3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook until they become golden brown.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the chicken and onions.
  5. Add the salt and black pepper. Stir well to season the chicken and tomatoes.
  6. Add the sliced poblano peppers to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the other ingredients.
  7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Uncover the skillet and add the chunks of Oaxaca cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts and combines with the other ingredients.
  9. Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped coriander on top of the chicken before serving.

Tools for making

  • Skillet - A large, deep cooking pan with a handle and straight sides, used for sautéing and simmering the ingredients.
  • Knife - A sharp cutting tool used for finely chopping the onion and slicing the poblano peppers.
  • Cutting Board - A flat surface used for cutting and preparing the ingredients.
  • Spatula - A cooking utensil with a flat blade, used for stirring and flipping the chicken and vegetables in the skillet.
  • Measuring Spoons - Utensils used for measuring precise amounts of salt, black pepper, and other seasonings.
  • Cheese Grater - A tool used for grating the Oaxaca cheese into chunks.
  • Tongs - Scissor-like utensils with two long arms and a hinge, used for handling and flipping the chicken breasts in the skillet.
  • Lid - A cover used to completely or partially close the skillet while simmering the ingredients.

Recipe variations

  • Instead of chicken, use beef or pork as the protein in the dish.
  • For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh.
  • Add sliced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and texture.
  • Try using different types of cheese such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco.
  • For a spicier version, add diced jalapenos or serrano peppers.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as cumin, paprika, or oregano.
  • Serve the dish with warm tortillas or over a bed of rice.
  • Try adding a squeeze of lime juice or a dollop of sour cream as a garnish.
  • For a healthier twist, use olive oil instead of vegetable oil.
  • Consider adding corn kernels or black beans for additional flavor and texture.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our Oaxaca Chicken recipe, a hearty and flavorful dish that brings the traditional tastes of Oaxaca, Mexico to your table. This recipe involves sautéing chicken with onions and garlic, then simmering it with tomatoes and poblano peppers to create a delicious, savory infusion of flavors. The dish is finally topped with melted Oaxaca cheese, giving it a distinctive, creamy texture. With a sprinkle of fresh coriander to finish, you'll have a meal that's not only satisfying but also packed full of authentic Mexican taste. This is a dish that's perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, and it's straightforward enough for cooks of all levels to achieve. Enjoy the process and the delectable result!

Common questions

  1. Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless? Yes, you can use bone-in chicken for this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in chicken may take longer to cook through.
  2. Can I use a different type of cheese? While Oaxaca cheese is traditionally used for this recipe, you can substitute it with other types of melting cheese such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
  3. Is there a substitute for poblano peppers? If you cannot find poblano peppers, you can use Anaheim peppers as a substitute. They have a similar flavor and heat level.
  4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with extra-firm tofu or cooked beans for a vegetarian version.
  5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make the chicken Oaxaca ahead of time. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.
  6. What can I serve with chicken Oaxaca? Chicken Oaxaca pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a side of Mexican-style beans. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or guacamole for a complete meal.
  7. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Skillet - A large skillet or frying pan is needed to cook the chicken and other ingredients.
  • Knife - A sharp knife is required to finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  • Cutting Board - A cutting board is needed to safely chop and prepare the ingredients.
  • Spatula - A spatula is useful for stirring and flipping the chicken and other ingredients in the skillet.
  • Peeler - A peeler is necessary for removing the skin from the poblano peppers after they are roasted.
  • Tongs - Tongs can be handy for handling the chicken breasts while cooking.
  • Serving Platter - A serving platter is useful for presenting the finished dish to serve.
  • Cheese Grater - A cheese grater can be used if you prefer to grate the Oaxaca cheese instead of tearing it into chunks.
  • Cilantro Sprig - A cilantro sprig can be used as a garnish for the dish.

Origin stories

Hailing from the heartland of Mexico, Oaxaca cheese, also known as queso Oaxaca, is a staple in the culinary world of the region. Its name pays homage to the state of Oaxaca, a region renowned for its unique and rich gastronomic culture. Oaxaca cheese is often compared to mozzarella due to its stringy texture and mild flavor. Interestingly, the cheese's unique string-like quality is achieved through a traditional process known as "pasta filata", an Italian term meaning "spun paste". The curds are heated in water, then stretched and kneaded until they achieve a characteristic elastic texture. This widespread cheese has found its way into various Mexican cuisines, melting smoothly into dishes like our recipe here. Oaxaca cheese, with its unmistakable texture and creamy flavor, truly gives a taste of the spirit of Mexican cuisine.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

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