Introduction
When it comes to creating a delicious sandwich that packs a punch of flavor, the chicken torta is a fantastic choice. This delightful dish combines marinated chicken, a creamy chipotle sauce, and fresh toppings all served in a toasted bolillo roll. Perfect for lunch or dinner, these sandwiches are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of the ingredients and how to prepare this mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients
*For the Chicken:*
– 3 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (for the marinade)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil (for the skillet)
– Juice of 1 lime
– Zest of 1 lime
– 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
– 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
*For the Chipotle Sauce:*
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– 2-4 teaspoons sauce from a can of chipotle peppers in adobo
– 1½ tablespoons lime juice
– 2 teaspoons agave
– Pinch of salt
*For the Sandwich:*
– 4 bolillo rolls
– ½ head iceberg lettuce, finely shredded
– 1 tomato, sliced
– ½ cup guacamole
– ½ cup cilantro leaves
Prep Time
30 minutes (plus marinating time, optionally up to 2 hours)
Cook Time
Approximately 14 minutes
Total Time
Approximately 44 minutes (including marinating time)
Yield
Serves 4
To create these flavorful chicken tortas, start by marinating the chicken, which enhances its taste and tenderness. Next, prepare the chipotle sauce, which adds a creamy, spicy kick to the sandwiches. Once the chicken is cooked and sliced, all that’s left is to assemble the sandwiches with a fresh medley of toppings. Enjoy this vibrant and tasty meal that is sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of oil, lime juice, lime zest, and taco seasoning. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are well-coated with the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Prepare the Chipotle Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chipotle sauce, lime juice, agave, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Slice the bolillo rolls in half and toast them lightly, if desired. Spread a layer of guacamole on the bottom half of each roll. Place a portion of the sliced chicken on top of the guacamole. Add shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, and cilantro leaves over the chicken. Drizzle the prepared chipotle sauce over the toppings. Cover with the top half of the roll.
Serve:
Serve the chicken tortas immediately and enjoy.
Notes
Marinating Time:
For the best flavor, do not skip marinating the chicken. If time allows, marinate it for the full 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Adjusting Spice Level:
You can adjust the spiciness of the chipotle sauce by varying the amount of chipotle sauce used from the can.
Fresh Ingredients:
Using fresh lime juice and zest enhances the flavor of both the chicken and the sauce, while fresh cilantro provides a burst of freshness in the sandwiches.
Storage:
If you have leftovers, store the prepared components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Assemble sandwiches just before serving for the best texture.
Cook techniques
Marinating the Chicken
Marinating the chicken is essential for enhancing its flavor and tenderness. Combine olive oil, lime juice, zest, and taco seasoning to create a flavorful marinade. Ensure the chicken is fully coated, and allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Preparing the Chipotle Sauce
Making the chipotle sauce involves mixing mayonnaise with chipotle sauce from the can, lime juice, agave, and salt. This sauce adds creaminess and a spicy kick to the sandwich. Ensure the mixture is smooth before setting it aside.
Cooking the Chicken
For even cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat with olive oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade and allow excess to drip off. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Letting the chicken rest after cooking is crucial for retaining its juices.
Assembling the Sandwiches
To assemble, slice the bolillo rolls and spread guacamole on the bottom half. Layer the sliced chicken, followed by shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, and cilantro. Drizzle the chipotle sauce on top before closing the sandwich with the roll’s upper half.
FAQ
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
Can I use a different sauce instead of chipotle sauce?
Yes, you can substitute with any other sauce of your choice, but it will change the flavor profile of the sandwich.
What type of chicken can I use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended, but you can also use thighs or other cuts as per your preference.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Can I make the chipotle sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chipotle sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
Conclusion
This chicken torta recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors, with marinated chicken infused with lime and taco seasoning, complemented by a creamy chipotle sauce. The fresh toppings of guacamole, lettuce, tomato, and cilantro add a refreshing crunch, making this sandwich a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
More recipe suggestions and combination
Chicken Burrito Bowl
Use the marinated and cooked chicken as a base for a burrito bowl. Layer it with rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, avocado, and the chipotle sauce for a hearty meal.
Grilled Chicken Tacos
Transform the marinated chicken into grilled tacos. Serve in small tortillas topped with cabbage slaw, avocado, and a drizzle of the chipotle sauce for added flavor.
Chicken Quesadilla
Make delicious quesadillas using the sliced chicken, cheese, and sautéed bell peppers. Serve with guacamole and chipotle sauce for dipping.
Chicken Salad Wrap
Dice the cooked chicken and mix it with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and chipotle sauce. Wrap it all in a tortilla for a quick and tasty lunch option.
Mexican Chicken Pizza
Top a pizza crust with the marinated chicken, cheese, sliced tomatoes, and jalapeños. Bake until the crust is golden and bubbly, then drizzle with chipotle sauce before serving.
