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Creamy Hatch Green Chile Chicken Stew

creamy hatch green chile chicken stew - featured image

A comforting and bold-flavored chicken stew featuring smoky Hatch green chiles, tender chicken thighs, and a creamy broth that warms the soul.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups roasted and peeled Hatch green chiles, chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Roast and peel the Hatch green chiles by placing them over a gas burner or under a broiler until skin blisters and chars (about 5-7 minutes). Let cool in a covered bowl or plastic bag for 10 minutes, then peel off skin, remove seeds and stems, and chop roughly.
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry and cut into 1-inch pieces.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add chicken pieces to the pot, season with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook until chicken is lightly browned but not fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
  5. Stir in chopped Hatch green chiles, then pour in chicken broth. Increase heat to bring to a simmer.
  6. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Lower heat to very low. Whisk in heavy cream and softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Heat through but do not boil to avoid curdling.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more smoked paprika if desired.
  9. Ladle stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

Roasting and peeling the Hatch green chiles is essential for deep smoky flavor. Keep heat low after adding cream and cream cheese to prevent curdling. If stew is too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen. Chicken breasts can be used but may dry out faster. For dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream and cream cheese with full-fat coconut milk and dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: Hatch green chile, chicken stew, creamy chicken stew, comfort food, spicy stew, easy dinner, bold flavors