Ingredients
CHIPOTLE CHICKEN
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 1/2–3 tablespoons taco seasoning (I use Siete Mild Taco Seasoning, about half a packet)
1/8 teaspoon chipotle powder (spicy; substitute 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika for a milder flavor)
1 tablespoon extra‑virgin olive oil
SAUCE
1 large firm avocado, diced
1/2 cup roasted, salted pistachios
1/2 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves
.5 oz chives (about one full package), finely sliced
Juice and zest of one lemon
1 tablespoon extra‑virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs if you like, then toss the pieces in the spice blend and olive oil until each thigh is evenly coated.
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium‑high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chicken and cook, turning once, until both sides are beautifully browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- While the chicken cooks, pulse the pistachios, cilantro, and chives in a mini‑chopper or food processor until finely chopped.
- Transfer that mixture to a bowl and stir in the avocado chunks, lemon juice and zest, a splash of olive oil, and a pinch of salt. You’ll end up with a thick, chunky sauce that’s totally irresistible.
- Slice the chicken into bite‑sized pieces for easy serving. Season lightly with salt, then spoon generous dollops of the pistachio‑avocado sauce over the top. Serve alongside rice and a crisp salad for a bowl that’s bursting with vibrant flavor.
Notes
- You can swap in boneless, skinless chicken breasts without changing the method, just follow the same steps.
- If you don’t have chipotle powder, mince a single chipotle pepper from a can (or stir in 2–3 teaspoons of its adobo sauce) along with your chicken and taco seasoning.
- For a different cook method, grill the chicken or air‑fry it at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
- Because taco seasoning brands vary in saltiness, wait until after cooking to season with salt; if your blend doesn’t include salt, mix in ½–1 teaspoon when you combine the dry spices in Step 1.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stove
- Cuisine: Mexican