Qdoba Cholula Hot And Sweet Chicken Recipe – Culinary Chase
Let me take you on an exciting culinary adventure. Grab your apron; we’re diving into the world of QDOBA’s Cholula Hot and Sweet Chicken. As a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, I’ve explored many restaurants and their meals.
Still, when it comes to heavenly flavors, nothing quite compares to QDOBA’s unique take on chicken.
What is QDOBA Cholula Hot and Sweet Chicken?
Simply put, QDOBA’s Cholula Hot and Sweet Chicken is a delicious combination of tender chicken marinated in a rich blend of Cholula hot sauce, lime juice, and a hint of sweetness.
This dish delivers a perfect balance of heat and flavor, making it a standout offering at QDOBA.
Cholula hot sauce, known for its unique flavor profile, is a blend of piquant chili peppers and spices. It lifts the chicken with a heat that tingles the taste buds without overwhelming them.
Imagine that first bite—succulent chicken complemented by that delightful sweet heat. Trust me, it’s a match made in culinary heaven.
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Why You’ll Love This QDOBA Cholula Hot and Sweet Chicken
There’s plenty to love about this dish. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it over rice, in a taco, or even in a salad. You’ll also appreciate its straightforward preparation. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
Moreover, the flavors are out of this world. The combination of spice and sweetness creates a delightful taste experience. If you’re anything like me, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds.
The Ingredients
Deliciousness starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create QDOBA’s Cholula Hot and Sweet Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs: These provide the base and protein for the dish.
- ½ cup Cholula Original Hot Sauce: This adds the essential spicy kick.
- 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lime juice: It adds a zesty brightness.
- 2 teaspoons honey: This balances out the heat nicely. For a sweeter twist, consider adding 2 ½ teaspoons.
- 2 teaspoons THM Super Sweet or equivalent sweetener: Sweetness enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: It deepens the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This gives a smoky undertone that elevates the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt: I recommend using fine sea salt for a smoother texture.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Butter adds richness and moisture.
Step by Step Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine Cholula hot sauce, lime juice, honey, and THM Super Sweet. Whisk these ingredients until well blended. Add the onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir until mixed. Once your marinade is ready, toss in the chicken to coat it thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for even better results, refrigerate it overnight.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
After marinating, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt. The aroma will begin to fill your kitchen, enticing everyone nearby. You want the skillet hot enough to achieve a nice sear.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Carefully place the marinated chicken in the skillet. Sear each side for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken develops a beautiful golden crust. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. If you have too much chicken, cook it in batches. Proper searing is crucial for flavor.
Step 4: Check Doneness
Using a meat thermometer, check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. I always recommend this step to ensure your chicken is cooked through yet remains juicy.
Step 5: Rest the Chicken
Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making for a moist bite.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Finally, slice the chicken into strips. You can serve it right away or incorporate it into your favorite taco, salad, or burrito bowl. The choice is yours!
Tips & Tricks
To make your experience even smoother, consider the following tips:
- Marinate Longer: If possible, marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
- Chicken Thighs Have More Flavor: Using boneless, skinless thighs can enhance the dish’s richness.
- Experiment with Sweeteners: If you don’t have THM Super Sweet, brown sugar or agave can work.
- Use Leftovers Creatively: The chicken can easily be added to wraps, pasta, or grain bowls.
- Serve with Lime Wedges: Fresh lime wedges add an extra burst of fresh flavor when serving.
Can I Store QDOBA Cholula Hot and Sweet Chicken?
Absolutely! If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This is perfect for meal prep!
You can reheat it in the microwave or stovetop. Just be careful not to overcook it again, or it might dry out.
What Can I Serve with QDOBA Cholula Hot and Sweet Chicken?
The question isn’t what you can serve with it, but what can’t you serve with it? Here are a few favorite pairings:
- Rice Bowls: Serve it over cooked rice with black beans and corn for a hearty meal.
- Tacos: Use soft or hard taco shells and top with your favorite toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
- Salads: Slice and toss it over mixed greens with avocado, tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette.
- Quesadillas: Combine the chicken with cheese and veggies in a tortilla, and grill until crispy.
- Wraps: Use lavash or sandwich wraps to create a filling lunch option.
Variations
Here are some creative variations to consider when making QDOBA Cholula Hot and Sweet Chicken:
- Cholula BBQ Chicken: Substitute ½ cup of BBQ sauce for the hot sauce to suit those who prefer barbecue flavors.
- Sweet and Sour Twist: Mix ¼ cup of sweet and sour sauce in place of honey to change up the sweetness.
- Teriyaki Fusion: Replace a portion of the marinade with teriyaki sauce for an Asian-inspired twist.
- Spicy Cilantro Lime: Add fresh chopped cilantro and increase the lime juice to give it a refreshing note.
- Buffalo Style: Use buffalo sauce instead for a tangy and spicy alternative that packs a punch.
Qdoba Cholula Hot And Sweet Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
- ½ cup Cholula Original Hot Sauce
- 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 teaspoons honey or 2 ½ teaspoons for a sweeter touch
- 2 teaspoons THM Super Sweet or equivalent sweetener
- 1 teaspoon onion powder adds depth to the flavor
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds a smoky depth to the sauce
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt instead of mineral salt for smoother texture
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Now that we have our ingredients, let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine Cholula hot sauce, lime juice, honey, and THM Super Sweet. Whisk these ingredients until well blended. Add the onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir until mixed. Once your marinade is ready, toss in the chicken to coat it thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for even better results, refrigerate it overnight.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
- After marinating, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt. The aroma will begin to fill your kitchen, enticing everyone nearby. You want the skillet hot enough to achieve a nice sear.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Carefully place the marinated chicken in the skillet. Sear each side for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken develops a beautiful golden crust. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. If you have too much chicken, cook it in batches. Proper searing is crucial for flavor.
Step 4: Check Doneness
- Using a meat thermometer, check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. I always recommend this step to ensure your chicken is cooked through yet remains juicy.
Step 5: Rest the Chicken
- Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making for a moist bite.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Finally, slice the chicken into strips. You can serve it right away or incorporate it into your favorite taco, salad, or burrito bowl. The choice is yours!
Notes
- Marinate Longer: If possible, marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
- Chicken Thighs Have More Flavor: Using boneless, skinless thighs can enhance the dish’s richness.
- Experiment with Sweeteners: If you don’t have THM Super Sweet, brown sugar or agave can work.
- Use Leftovers Creatively: The chicken can easily be added to wraps, pasta, or grain bowls.
- Serve with Lime Wedges: Fresh lime wedges add an extra burst of fresh flavor when serving.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is inherently gluten-free since it doesn’t require any flour or breading. Just ensure your ingredients, like the hot sauce, are certified gluten-free.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you crave spice, consider adding more Cholula sauce or incorporating diced fresh jalapeños into your marinade.
3. Can I use frozen chicken?
Definitely! However, make sure you properly thaw it before marinating and cooking for best results.
4. Is there a vegetarian version?
You can use tofu or jackfruit in place of chicken, marinating and cooking them in the same way for a vegetarian twist.
5. How does the Cholula Hot Sauce differ from others?
Cholula offers a unique flavor due to its blend of chili peppers and spices, giving it both heat and flavor, unlike standard hot sauces that might focus more on spiciness.
Conclusion
There you have it – a dive into the taste sensation that is QDOBA’s Cholula Hot and Sweet Chicken. From its exciting blend of flavors to the ease of preparation, this dish truly shines as a go-to meal.
So fire up your kitchen, let your taste buds be your guide, and make this recipe soon. You won’t regret it. Happy cooking!