Craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this incredibly delicious Chicken Barbacoa recipe! Forget the hours spent tending a traditional barbacoa pit; this simplified version delivers the same incredible smoky, tender, and deeply satisfying results in a fraction of the time. Imagine juicy shredded chicken, infused with the warm spices of chipotle peppers, cumin, and oregano, all nestled in a rich, savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend gathering.
The rich, complex flavors of this Chicken Barbacoa will transport your taste buds to Mexico. We’ve streamlined the process while maintaining the authenticity of this beloved dish, making it accessible to even novice cooks. Ready to experience the magic? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create this amazing meal together.
Tools Needed
- blender
- comal (or skillet)
- pot
- baking dish or similar with rack
Ingredients
- Guajillo chilies: 6
- Pasilla chilies: 2
- Avocado leaves
- Salt: to taste
- Allspice: 10
- Mexican oregano: 1/2 teaspoon
- Garlic cloves: 7
- Coriander seed: 1/2 teaspoon
- Cumin (whole): 1/4 teaspoon
- Cloves: 2
- Cinnamon sticks
- Thyme: a handful
- White vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1/2, cut into pieces
- Bay leaves: 2
- Chicken (leg and thigh): 10
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Barbacoa Sauce
- Remove seeds from chilies. Season chicken pieces with salt and refrigerate.
- Toast chilies on a comal until slightly browned. Remove from heat and add to a bowl of boiling water to hydrate. Cover and let soften.
- Toast allspice, cloves, thyme, cumin, oregano, and coriander seeds in a pan until fragrant. Remove and reserve.
- Sauté onion until softened.
- Blend toasted chilies, spices, onion, garlic, vinegar, and a little water until smooth.
- Heat oil in a pan, add the blended sauce, and simmer for 12 minutes, adding salt to taste. Turn off heat and let cool.
Step 2. Marinate the Chicken
- Add the chicken to the sauce, ensuring it's coated evenly. Marinate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
Step 3. Prepare for Steaming
- Place a rack in a pot, line it with banana leaves, and add water reaching up to the rack but not touching it. Add chicken to the rack. Cover the pot with remaining banana leaves and bay leaves.
Step 4. Steam the Chicken
- Cook on medium heat for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Read more: Juicy Birria Quesa Tacos Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- For best results, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Adjust the amount of salt according to your preference.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless, skinless breasts?
Yes! Bone-in thighs will add more flavor and richness to the barbacoa, but they'll require a slightly longer cooking time. Adjust accordingly.
2. What can I substitute for chipotle peppers in adobo sauce?
For a milder flavor, you can use smoked paprika or a combination of regular chili powder and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust to your spice preference.
3. What should I serve this Chicken Barbacoa with?
It's delicious served in tacos with warm tortillas, your favorite toppings (salsa, cilantro, onions), and a side of Mexican rice and beans. You can also use it as a filling for burritos or quesadillas.
This Easy & Quick Chicken Barbacoa recipe delivers authentic Mexican flavors without the fuss. Enjoy the tender, flavorful chicken in your favorite dishes, and impress your friends and family with your newfound culinary skills. Happy cooking!