INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Don’t save your tequila just for margaritas. Chef Amy Von Eiff of A Cut Above Catering is putting the spirit to work in a tequila lime chicken recipe perfect for end-of-summer gatherings.
Von Eiff pairs the tender, citrus-marinated chicken with savory charro beans, creating a flavorful meal that can be prepared ahead of time for Labor Day entertaining.
“Tequila isn’t just for margaritas,” Von Eiff said. “The alcohol breaks down the protein fibers in chicken, making it incredibly tender.”
The marinade combines tequila, fresh lime juice, chipotle peppers and garlic. Jalapeño ribbons add heat, while olive oil helps bring the ingredients together. Von Eiff recommends marinating the chicken for at least two hours.
For the charro beans, she combines smoked bacon, pinto beans, chicken stock, cilantro, lime juice, cumin and jalapeños for a hearty side dish.
“These dishes are crowd-pleasers that you can prep ahead,” Von Eiff said. “That means more time with your guests and less time stuck in the kitchen.”
Von Eiff also uses the marinade ingredients to create a pan sauce with chipotle peppers, cumin, agave, chicken stock and tequila. The alcohol cooks off during preparation, leaving behind the flavor.
Cooking for a cause
Von Eiff’s cooking will also be featured at the Hope of Hamilton Benefit on Monday, Aug. 31, at Mustard Seed Gardens.
The event will feature food, live music from Tommy Baldwin and a community effort to help Hamilton County residents affected by flooding.
“Hamilton County was hit hard by flooding, and so many families didn’t have flood insurance,” Von Eiff said. “When you file an insurance claim, it takes forever. This is about getting help directly to victims now.”
According to Von Eiff, 100% of proceeds from the benefit will go directly to flood victims, with no administrative fees or overhead taken from the donations.
The event was organized with the help of local vendors, sponsors and industry partners.
“We could not have done this quick turnaround without all of our vendors and sponsors,” Von Eiff said. “Even a little bit is going to go such a long way.”
Tickets are still available for the Aug. 31 benefit at Mustard Seed Gardens. For ticket information and event details, contact A Cut Above Catering.
