Chori Pollo pairs juicy chicken & spicy chorizo with aromatic spices, poblano peppers, and creamy melted cheese for a hearty, satisfying dinner. A fully customizable dinner the whole family will enjoy!
Your family will love this recipe because it offers a delicious fusion of flavors! The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the spicy chorizo, while the blend of aromatic spices adds depth and warmth to every bite.
The roasted poblano peppers, creamy cheese sauce, and zesty lime wedges create the perfect flavorful bite that will tantalize their taste buds and leave them craving more. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for bringing loved ones together around the dinner table.
The best part of this easy dish is that it is 100% customizable and can be topped differently for every member of the family.
Ingredients for Chori Pollo
Gather the ingredients that will bring this Mexican-inspired dish to life.
** You can find the full recipe ingredients and instructions on the printable recipe card below.
- Chicken breasts: The main protein in the dish, providing a lean and versatile base for the flavors of the spices and marinade.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of the chicken and helps to tenderize it during the marinating process.
- Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor to the chicken.
- Garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with aromatic garlic flavor, complementing the other spices in the marinade.
- Turmeric: Adds a warm, earthy flavor and vibrant color to the chicken.
- Mexican oregano: Provides a distinct herbal flavor that is commonly used in Mexican cuisine, adding depth to the overall taste profile of the dish.
- Poblano peppers: Contribute a mild heat and smoky flavor to the dish, balancing the richness of the chicken and chorizo.
- Chorizo sausage: Adds richness, depth of flavor, and a slightly spicy kick to the dish, complementing the chicken perfectly.
- Gordo’s cheese dip: Adds creaminess and richness to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
- Lime wedges: Provide a bright, citrusy acidity that cuts through the richness of the dish, adding freshness and balance.
- Fresh cilantro: Adds a pop of freshness and color to the dish, as well as a distinct herbal flavor that complements the other ingredients.
How to Make Chori Pollo
Follow these simple instructions to create this Chori Pollo recipe bursting with bold flavors and hearty satisfaction.
** You can find the full recipe ingredients and instructions on the printable recipe card below.
- Prepare the chicken: Slice in half lengthwise for 4 cutlets. Pound for even thickness.
- Mix spices: Combine salt, pepper, garlic, turmeric, and oregano.
- Marinate: Rub spices onto chicken; let sit for 30 mins.
- Prep peppers: Roast, steam, and slice poblano peppers.
- Cook: Sear chicken and chorizo in skillet for 6-8 mins. Rest, then assemble with peppers, cheese, cilantro, and lime. Enjoy!
Why this Recipe Works
This recipe works because it combines simple preparation steps with flavorful ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying dish. Slicing the chicken breasts into cutlets ensures even cooking while marinating them in a blend of spices adds depth of flavor.
Roasting the poblano peppers adds smokiness, and cooking everything together in a skillet creates a cohesive and flavorful dish. Finally, topping with cheese, cilantro, and lime adds freshness and complexity.
Overall, it’s a well-balanced and easy-to-follow recipe that delivers fantastic results every time.
Recipe Tips and Kitchen Tricks
- Prep Efficiency: Slice chicken evenly for consistent cooking. Pound if needed.
- Flavor Infusion: Ensure spices coat chicken well during marination for maximum flavor.
- Pepper Preparation: Roast poblano peppers for a smoky flavor; steam for easy skin removal.
- Even Cooking: Cook chicken and chorizo in a hot skillet for a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
- Resting Period: Let cooked meats rest before slicing to retain juices.
- Assembly: Layer sliced chicken, chorizo, and peppers; top with cheese, cilantro, and lime for a burst of freshness.
Family-Friendly Side Dishes
- Mexican Rice: Flavorful and versatile, it complements the bold flavors of Chori Pollo.
- Black Beans: Rich in protein and fiber, they add heartiness to the meal.
- Guacamole: Creamy and fresh, it adds a cooling element to balance the spice.
- Corn on the Cob: A classic side that’s easy to prepare and loved by all.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Twist: Substitute chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu for a meat-free option.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the marinade for extra heat.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Use shredded Mexican blend cheese instead of cheese dip for a gooey topping.
- Tex-Mex Fusion: Serve Chori Pollo in tacos or burritos with your favorite toppings.
Storing, freezing, and reheating instructions
Storing:
- Store leftover Chori Pollo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Keep any additional toppings like cheese dip, salsa, and lime wedges separate to maintain freshness.
Freezing:
- Chori Pollo can be frozen for longer storage. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Press out excess air, seal tightly, and label with the date.
- Frozen Chori Pollo can be stored for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating:
- Thaw frozen Chori Pollo overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until thoroughly heated.
- Add fresh toppings and garnishes after reheating for the best flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Chori Pollo?
Chori Pollo is a delicious Mexican dish featuring grilled chicken and chorizo sausage, seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices. It’s often served with toppings like roasted peppers, cheese, and fresh cilantro.
Is Chori Pollo spicy?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted to taste. While chorizo sausage typically adds some spice, you can control the heat by adjusting the amount of chili powder or omitting spicy ingredients like jalapeños.
Can I make Chori Pollo ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. You can also prepare the toppings and garnishes in advance for easier assembly.
Drink Pairings
Remember personal preferences play a role, so feel free to explore and discover your favorite pairings!
Family-Friendly Drink Pairings:
- Fruit Punch: Refreshing and sweet, it complements the bold flavors of Chori Pollo.
- Lemonade: A classic choice that’s both tangy and thirst-quenching.
- Iced Tea: Whether sweetened or unsweetened, it’s a versatile option that pairs well with savory dishes.
Wine Pairings:
- Chardonnay: Its buttery texture and notes of oak complement the richness of the dish.
- Malbec: With its fruity flavors and smooth tannins, it balances the spiciness of the chorizo.
- Grenache: This medium-bodied red wine offers ripe fruit flavors and a hint of spice, enhancing the flavors of the dish.
Cocktail Pairings:
- Margarita: The citrusy flavors of lime complement the dish’s acidity, while the tequila adds depth.
- Paloma: A refreshing blend of grapefruit soda and tequila, with a splash of lime, it adds a bright and tangy contrast.
- Michelada: This Mexican beer cocktail, made with beer, lime juice, hot sauce, and spices, pairs perfectly with the spicy flavors of Chori Pollo.
Beer Pairings:
- Mexican Lager: Light and crisp, it cleanses the palate between bites without overpowering the dish.
- Amber Ale: Its maltiness and caramel notes complement the smoky flavors of the dish.
- IPA (India Pale Ale): The hoppy bitterness of an IPA can cut through the richness of the cheese and spice of the chorizo, creating a balanced pairing.
Chori Pollo – Mexican Chorizo Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 Chicken breasts sliced in half lengthwise
- 6 oz Chorizo sausage
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil (if necessary)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Pepper
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric
- 1/4 tsp Mexican oregano
- 2 Poblano peppers roasted
- White cheese dip like Gordo's Brand cheese or queso
Optional Garnishes
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Slice each breast in half lengthwise to create 4 cutlets. If necessary, pound to a consistent thickness.
- In a bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, turmeric, and Mexican oregano to make a spice mixture.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken cutlets, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the poblano peppers. You can either roast them directly over an open flame or broil them in the oven until the skin is charred and blistered. Once charred, place them in a bowl, cover them with plastic wrap, and let them steam for about 10 minutes. Then, remove the skins, seeds, and stems, and slice the peppers into strips.
- Heat skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and chorizo sausage to the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the chorizo is browned and crispy.
- Once the chicken and chorizo are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest.
- To assemble the Chori Pollo, place a portion of sliced chicken and chorizo on a plate. Top with roasted poblano pepper strips and a generous dollop of Gordo’s cheese dip.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish.
Notes
- Store leftover Chori Pollo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Keep any additional toppings like cheese dip, salsa, and lime wedges separate to maintain freshness.
- Chori Pollo can be frozen for longer storage. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Press out excess air, seal tightly, and label with the date.
- Frozen Chori Pollo can be stored for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
- Thaw frozen Chori Pollo overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until thoroughly heated.
- Add fresh toppings and garnishes after reheating for the best flavor and texture.