Achiote Chicken With Queso Fresco

Jun 06, 2023June 6, 20230 13
Achiote Chicken With Queso Fresco
in Main

Prep

10 min

Cook

45 min

Ready In

55 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

12 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 12 chicken thighs
4 tablespoons achiote paste
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon cumin
8 ounces orange juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 onion , sliced
24 ounces queso fresco
12 sprigs fresh cilantro

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
12
Calories
308
Sugar
3g
Fat
14g
Achiote chicken is a popular dish in Latin America, particularly in Mexico and Central America. The dish is known for its vibrant orange color, which comes from the achiote paste used in the marinade. Achiote paste is made from annatto seeds and is commonly used in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine, giving dishes a distinct flavor and color. The addition of queso fresco creates a creamy and flavorful combination that is perfect for a family dinner or a summer barbecue. Serve with a side of rice and beans for a more complete meal.

Instructions

1.Combine the achiote paste, salt, pepper, cumin, orange juice, chili powder, and garlic in a large bowl. Stir until the paste has dissolved.
2.Add the chicken to the bowl and coat it thoroughly with the marinade.
3.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
4.Preheat the oven to 375°F.
5.Arrange the chicken in a baking dish and top it with the sliced onions and queso fresco.
6.Bake for 30-45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7.Garnish each piece of chicken with a sprig of fresh cilantro before serving.

PROS

This flavorful chicken dish is an easy and satisfying meal.

The combination of achiote paste, orange juice, and spices create an explosion of flavors in each bite.
Plus, the queso fresco adds a creamy and tangy element to the dish.

CONS

The marinating process can be time-consuming, so plan accordingly.

Also, while the dish is relatively healthy, the queso fresco does add a bit of saturated fat to the meal.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish is high in protein, making it a great choice for those who need to boost their protein intake. The achiote paste adds a healthy dose of antioxidants to the dish, which help protect against cellular damage and inflammation. Additionally, the use of garlic in this dish has been linked to lowering blood pressure and improving heart health.

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