Get ready to transform your dinner table into a Mexican-inspired paradise with this mouthwatering Chicken Acapulco recipe that will make your taste buds dance! Imagine perfectly seasoned chicken breasts smothered in a luxurious, velvety shrimp cream sauce that's so irresistible, you'll be dreaming about it long after the last bite. This isn't just a meal - it's a culinary adventure that combines the bold spices of Mexican cuisine with the indulgent richness of a creamy seafood sauce that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the pan.
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should have a golden-brown crust and be completely cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside on a warm plate. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and are just opaque.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet with the shrimp. Add lime juice and stir gently to combine, creating a creamy sauce.
- Simmer the cream sauce for 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy shrimp sauce over each piece to coat.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro just before serving.
- Plate the chicken and spoon additional sauce over each breast. Serve immediately with your choice of rice or vegetables.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches exactly 165°F for perfect doneness without drying out.
- Seasoning Secrets: Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help the spices adhere better and create a more flavorful crust.
- Sauce Consistency: Keep an eye on your cream sauce while simmering. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh cilantro for garnishing - it adds a bright, fresh flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Shrimp Timing: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink to prevent them from becoming tough and rubbery.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve over cilantro-lime rice or with roasted vegetables to complement the rich, creamy sauce.
- Make Ahead: You can season the chicken and prepare the ingredients in advance to make cooking faster and easier on busy nights.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 250mg
