For the pollo: In a pot, add the chicken breast, garlic, tomato, onion and salt. Add water to cover the chicken breast. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and cook until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken and strain the broth. Set aside the broth for the sauce. Shred the chicken.
For the pipian sauce: In a medium saute pan, toast the pumpkin seeds on medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning, about 5 minutes. Transfer the seeds to the chicken broth and let soak for about 15 minutes. Repeat the toasting with the purple corn kernels, then transfer to the broth. Repeat the toasting with the chiles, breaking them apart and stirring constantly, about 5 minutes. Transfer the chiles to just enough hot water to cover and let soak for about 15 minutes.
Remove the chiles from the water and discard the water. Transfer the chiles to a blender with some chicken broth and blend, then remove and blend the pumpkin seeds finely. (You want it to look like a thin purée.) Set aside.
Heat a heavy-bottomed pot on medium heat. Add the oil. Once the oil is hot, slowly add the two blends together. Cook, stirring constantly, then add the remaining chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat. Simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce reduces to a thick consistency, about 10 minutes. Add salt to your liking.
Serve the sauce on top of the chicken!
Cook’s Note
You can use precooked chicken or chicken broth; however, the pipian will not come out as intended. It is always best to prep your own chicken broth as described.
Tools You May Need
This recipe was provided by a chef, restaurant or culinary professional. It has not been tested for home use.
Recipe courtesy of El Mirasol Cocina Mexicana, Palm Springs, CA
Tools You May Need
Price and stock may change after publish date, and we may make money off
these links.
By entering your email address, you agree to our Terms of Use
and acknowledge the Privacy Policy.
Food Network and
its affiliates
may use your email address to provide updates, ads, and offers.
To withdraw your consent or learn more about your rights, see the
Privacy Policy.