THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Sautéed Squash and Creamy Chipotle Chicken Thighs
This dish brings together tender chicken thighs with a smoky, creamy chipotle sauce that’s full of flavor. Paired with sautéed squash, it’s a simple and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Sautéed Squash and Creamy Chipotle Chicken Thighs
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil with a quartered onion and a tablespoon of bouillon. Drop in the chicken and let it simmer until it’s cooked through—this usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear, or if you have a thermometer, it should read 165°F. Once cooked, take the chicken out and set it aside, but don’t toss the cooking water—reserve a cup for later.
02
Step 2
Next, blend together the Mexican crema, chipotle peppers, the cup of reserved cooking water, two tomatoes, another quarter onion, one garlic clove, and the remaining tablespoon of bouillon until you get a smooth sauce. Pour this sauce into a frying pan, add the chicken thighs back in, and let everything simmer gently for about 20 minutes so the flavors meld.
03
Step 3
While the chicken simmers, melt a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in a quarter of an onion and the remaining garlic clove, cooking until they soften, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the bell pepper and cook for another 3 minutes, then stir in the squash. Season with salt and pepper, and sauté until the squash is tender, around 5 minutes.
04
Step 4
For a fresh finish, slice the last tomato. In another skillet, heat the last tablespoon of butter over medium heat and cook the sliced tomato along with the remaining quarter onion until they’re softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Spoon this on top of the chicken and serve it alongside the sautéed squash.
Why you’ll love it
This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a smooth, smoky chipotle sauce that adds just the right amount of heat. Paired with lightly sautéed squash, it offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s quick to make and satisfying for any weeknight dinner.
How to serve
Serve with a side of fluffy rice or warm tortillas to soak up the creamy sauce. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables will add a refreshing contrast. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a bright finish.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the chicken moist. Avoid freezing the creamy sauce, as the texture may change after thawing.
