Spicy Chicken Diablo is a dish characterized by its intense, spicy flavor profile. The recipe typically involves marinating chicken pieces in a sauce containing various hot peppers and spices. After marination, the chicken is grilled, resulting in a combination of smoky and spicy flavors.
This dish is popular among those who enjoy spicy food and is often served at casual dining establishments or prepared at home. The level of spiciness can be adjusted according to personal preference by modifying the types and quantities of peppers used in the marinade. Spicy Chicken Diablo is generally considered a main course and can be paired with side dishes such as rice, vegetables, or salad to create a complete meal.
Ingredients and Preparation
Marinade Ingredients
Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, which will absorb the flavors of the marinade beautifully. For the marinade, you’ll need ingredients such as hot sauce, chili powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt. These spices will give the chicken its signature spicy kick and depth of flavor.
Sauce Ingredients
In addition to the marinade, you’ll also need ingredients for the sauce, such as tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. These ingredients will come together to create a rich and tangy sauce that perfectly complements the heat of the chicken.
Preparing Spicy Chicken Diablo
To prepare the Spicy Chicken Diablo, start by marinating the chicken in the spicy marinade for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. While the chicken is marinating, you can prepare the sauce by combining all the sauce ingredients in a small saucepan and simmering over low heat until the flavors meld together. Once the chicken has marinated, it can be grilled to perfection, then brushed with the tangy sauce for a final burst of flavor. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a spicy and tangy glaze that is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Cooking Instructions
To cook Spicy Chicken Diablo, start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Once the grill is hot, place the marinated chicken pieces on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and has beautiful grill marks. While the chicken is grilling, you can brush it with the tangy sauce to infuse it with even more flavor.
Once the chicken is cooked through and has a delicious charred exterior, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. If you prefer to bake the Spicy Chicken Diablo instead of grilling it, you can preheat your oven to 375°F and place the marinated chicken in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
During the last 10 minutes of baking, brush the chicken with the tangy sauce to create a flavorful glaze. Once the chicken is cooked through and has a beautiful golden-brown color, remove it from the oven and let it rest before serving.
Serving Suggestions
| Food | Serving Size | Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Salad | 1 cup | Top with grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal |
| Pasta | 2 oz | Toss with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs |
| Fruit | 1 piece | Pair with yogurt for a healthy snack |
Spicy Chicken Diablo can be served in a variety of ways to suit your preferences and dietary needs. For a simple yet satisfying meal, serve the grilled or baked chicken alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a healthy and balanced plate. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a heartier meal that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
If you’re hosting a dinner party or special occasion, consider serving Spicy Chicken Diablo with roasted potatoes or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and indulgent side dish. To add even more flavor and texture to your meal, consider topping the Spicy Chicken Diablo with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness. You can also sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts over the chicken for added crunch and visual appeal.
No matter how you choose to serve it, Spicy Chicken Diablo is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Pairing the Spicy Chicken Diablo with Sides
When it comes to pairing Spicy Chicken Diablo with sides, there are plenty of options to consider that will complement the bold flavors of the dish. For a refreshing and light side dish, consider serving the chicken with a crisp cucumber salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. The coolness of the cucumber will help balance out the heat of the chicken, creating a harmonious combination of flavors.
You can also serve Spicy Chicken Diablo with a side of creamy coleslaw for a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the spicy chicken. If you’re looking for a heartier side dish to serve alongside Spicy Chicken Diablo, consider preparing some roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini. The sweetness of the roasted vegetables will help balance out the spiciness of the chicken, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Another great option is to serve the chicken with a side of fluffy mashed potatoes or buttery cornbread for a comforting and indulgent meal that is perfect for cooler weather.
Dinner Ideas featuring Spicy Chicken Diablo
Casual Weeknight Dinner
For a casual weeknight dinner, consider serving the grilled or baked chicken alongside warm tortillas and an assortment of fresh toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and sour cream. This allows everyone at the table to customize their own spicy chicken tacos to their liking.
Dinner Party or Special Occasion
If you’re hosting a dinner party or special occasion, consider serving Spicy Chicken Diablo as part of a larger spread that includes other Mexican-inspired dishes such as homemade guacamole, salsa, and chips. You can also serve it alongside classic Mexican sides such as rice and beans for a complete and satisfying meal that is sure to impress your guests.
Lighter Dinner Option
For a lighter dinner option, consider serving Spicy Chicken Diablo on top of a bed of mixed greens dressed in a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing and satisfying salad. You can also add some sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled queso fresco for added flavor and texture. This meal is perfect for those looking for a healthier yet still flavorful dinner option.
Conclusion and Final Tips
In conclusion, Spicy Chicken Diablo is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for those who love bold flavors and crave a little heat in their meals. With its tender and juicy chicken marinated in a spicy sauce and grilled to perfection, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you choose to serve it with simple sides for a casual weeknight dinner or incorporate it into a larger spread for a special occasion, Spicy Chicken Diablo is versatile enough to suit any dining situation.
When preparing Spicy Chicken Diablo, be sure to adjust the level of spiciness according to your personal preferences. If you prefer milder flavors, you can reduce the amount of hot sauce or cayenne pepper in the marinade and sauce. On the other hand, if you love extra heat, feel free to increase these ingredients to suit your taste.
Additionally, be mindful of cooking times when grilling or baking the chicken to ensure that it is cooked through but still juicy and tender. Overall, Spicy Chicken Diablo is a fantastic recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends with its bold flavors and satisfying appeal. Whether you’re looking for a new recipe to spice up your weeknight meals or planning a special dinner party, Spicy Chicken Diablo is an excellent choice that will leave everyone at the table asking for more.
FAQs
What is Chicken Diablo?
Chicken Diablo is a spicy and flavorful dish made with chicken, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices. It is a popular dish in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine.
What ingredients are typically used in Chicken Diablo?
Common ingredients in Chicken Diablo include chicken breast, tomatoes, onions, garlic, chili peppers, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Some recipes may also include bell peppers, jalapenos, and hot sauce for extra heat.
How is Chicken Diablo typically served?
Chicken Diablo is often served with rice or tortillas to soak up the flavorful sauce. It can also be served with a side of beans, salad, or grilled vegetables.
Is Chicken Diablo a spicy dish?
Yes, Chicken Diablo is known for its spicy flavor. The level of spiciness can be adjusted by using fewer or more chili peppers and hot sauce according to personal preference.
Can Chicken Diablo be made ahead of time?
Yes, Chicken Diablo can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. The flavors often develop even more after sitting for a day, making it a great dish for meal prep.
