Creamy Poblano Chicken

Step 1

Slice one poblano pepper into thin strips.

Step 2

Roast the other pepper: If you have a gas stove, turn the burner on and keep the pepper over the flame until it chars – you want it black on all sides. If you don’t have a gas stove, turn your broiler on and roast the pepper on the top rack until it is blackened on all sides. Once the pepper is roasted, transfer to a large plastic bag and seal or a bowl covered with plastic wrap and let steam while you sear the chicken. Once the pepper has steamed for about 10 minutes, pull it out and peel the skin off. Take out the membranes and seeds as well.

Step 3

While the peppers steam: Heat a large skillet over a medium heat. Add two tablespoons butter or olive oil. Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepepr. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken. Sear until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Flip and do the same on the other side. Sear until golden brown, another 3-4 minutes. Take the chicken out and set aside. Don’t worry if the chicken is not cooked through, it will simmer in the sauce later to finish cooking.

Step 4

Once the chicken is seared, remove from the pan, and add remaining tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the pan. Add the onions and sliced poblano peppers (the sliced peppers you did not roast and steam). Saute for about 5 minutes until softened. Season with a little salt . Add the garlic and cook another minute.

Step 5

While the veggies cook, transfer the ROASTED poblano pepper to a blender along with cilantro, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 cup chicken stock. Blend until smooth. Pour the pureed pepper mixture back into the skillet with the sliced peppers, onions, and garlic. Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup chicken stock, cream, lime juice, honey, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Add the chcken breasts back to the skillet with the sauce, cover and simmer until the chicken is cooked through. It should read 165 degrees on an instant read thermomter. If needed, add a little bit more chicken stock to loosen the sauce. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve over rice pilaf, pasta, or mashed potatoes.

Step 6

Heat a medium saucepan over a medium heat. Add butter. Add the onion and garlic. Saute 1-2 minutes until softened. Add the orzo and rice. Toast until slightly brown, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in chicken stock and 1/4 teaspoons salt. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Turn the heat off and let the rice steam for about 10-15 minutes. Fluff with a fork. Add cilantro and lime juice. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.