Pollo con Nopales (Chicken and Cactus)

May 26, 2023May 26, 20230 3

Pollo con Nopales (Chicken and Cactus) recipe for a healthy and flavorful dinner

by The Chefin Main

Prep

15 min

Cook

15 min

Ready In

30 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	2 skinless , boneless chicken breast halves
	3 fresh tomatillos , husks removed
	3 fresh jalapeno peppers , seeded
	1 jar canned nopales ( cactus ) , drained

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

280

Sugar

Fat

Pollo con Nopales (Chicken and Cactus) is a classic Mexican dish that is often served as a main course for dinner. The dish consists of grilled chicken breasts topped with a sauce made from pureed tomatillos and jalapeno peppers, along with tender pieces of nopales (cactus). While it may sound unusual, the combination of flavors in this dish is truly delicious and unlike anything else you may have tried before. The nopales are slightly tangy and have a texture similar to green beans, while the sauce provides a savory and slightly spicy kick. Overall, this dish is a great option for a healthy and flavorful dinner.

Instructions

1.	Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2.	Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper.
3.	Grill the chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
4.	In a blender or food processor, puree the tomatillos and jalapeno peppers until you get a smooth sauce.
5.	In a large skillet, heat the pureed sauce over medium heat and add the canned nopales.
6.	Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the nopales are tender.
7.	Serve the grilled chicken with the nopales sauce on top, and enjoy!

PROS

This dish is high in protein and low in calories, making it a healthy option for dinner.

The combination of chicken and cactus provides a unique flavor that is both savory and slightly tangy.

This recipe is also gluten-free and keto-friendly.

CONS

The nopales may be difficult to find in some grocery stores, and the preparation can be time-consuming if you are using fresh cactus.

Some people may not enjoy the texture of the nopales, which can be slightly slimy.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This recipe is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue.
The cactus used in this recipe is high in fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve digestion.
Tomatillos and jalapeno peppers are also high in vitamin C, which is important for maintaining a healthy immune system.