Chicken Pozole Verde

Chicken Pozole Verde is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Imagine a cozy evening where you’ve whipped up a pot filled with tender chicken, vibrant tomatillos, and an explosion of spices. That’s the magic of pozole! If you’re looking for a dish that’s comforting and packed with flavor, then you’ve hit the jackpot. Plus, it’s quick to make, so you can enjoy it on a busy weeknight or serve it up for a family gathering. Let’s unravel the secrets to crafting this delicious, easy Chicken Pozole Verde together. Trust me; you’ll want to make it again and again!

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pozole Verde
• Ingredients
• Cooking the Flavors Together
• Heat the Base
• Introduce the Broth
• Simmer and Shred the Chicken
• Blend the Flavor
• Combine and Finish
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• Storage Tips
• Pairing Ideas
• FAQs
• More Easy Soups Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why This Recipe Works

When it comes to Chicken Pozole Verde, the balance of flavors is what really shines. The earthy tomatillos meld beautifully with zesty jalapeños and a blend of aromatic spices, creating a taste that’s unforgettable. Each bite has a little something special, capturing the essence of traditional Mexican soup while ensuring it’s hearty enough to fill you up.

Another fantastic aspect is its comforting and nourishing nature. This easy weeknight version is exactly what you need after a long day. What’s even better is that with simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can have this comforting dish ready in under an hour. Who doesn’t love that?

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pozole Verde

What really makes Chicken Pozole Verde a gem is its versatility. You can customize your bowl with your favorite toppings like creamy avocado and crunchy radishes for a fresh twist each time you make it. No two bowls of pozole need to be the same!

Also, it’s a family-friendly meal that appeals to everyone, from kids to adults. The flavors are so enticing that even those who may be picky will find something to love in it. Plus, it’s filling and healthy! With wholesome ingredients like chicken, hominy, and fresh veggies, you’re serving up a nutritious dish the entire family can enjoy guilt-free.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Chicken Pozole Verde:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (such as avocado oil)
• 1 large white onion, chopped
• 4 large cloves garlic, coarsely chopped
• 1 pound tomatillos, husks removed, rinsed, and quartered
• 3 jalapeños, seeded and cut into large pieces (or leave seeds for a spicier soup)
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano (ideally Mexican oregano)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, trimmed
• 1 cup coarsely chopped cilantro leaves and tender stems, plus more for garnish
• 2 (15-ounce) cans hominy, drained and rinsed
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Sliced radishes, for garnish
• Sliced jalapeño, for garnish
• Diced or sliced avocado, for garnish
• Cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Tortilla chips, for serving

Cooking the Flavors Together

Heat the Base

Let’s kick things off! In a large Dutch oven or a sturdy soup pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, toss in the chopped onion and garlic, followed by the quartered tomatillos and the jalapeño pieces. Don’t forget the dried oregano and ground cumin! Stir this beautiful mix until everything is softened, which takes about 10 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen—so good!

Introduce the Broth

Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring that mixture to a gentle simmer. Then, introduce the trimmed chicken thighs, letting everything bubble away together. This is where the magic begins.

Simmer and Shred the Chicken

Cover your pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is very tender. When it’s done, carefully transfer the chicken to a cutting board. With two forks, shred it into bite-sized pieces. This part is satisfying, so enjoy!

Blend the Flavor

Now, using a slotted spoon, take out the softened onion, garlic, tomatillos, and jalapeños from your pot and pop them into a blender. Add the chopped cilantro and about ½ cup of the cooking liquid. Blend until it’s all smooth. A handy tip: instead of using the blender lid, cover it with a kitchen towel. Blending hot liquids can cause a mess if you’re not careful!

Combine and Finish

Stir the blended tomatillo mixture into the pot along with your shredded chicken and the drained hominy. Let everything come to a simmer again over medium heat, adding salt to taste. Cook for about 5 minutes until it’s all heated through.

Serving Suggestions

To serve your Chicken Pozole Verde, offer a delightful spread of toppings. From diced avocado and sliced radishes to fresh lime wedges, sliced jalapeño, and crispy tortilla chips, let everyone customize their bowl. Each topping adds a unique burst of flavor and texture that makes this dish truly shine!

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatillos and cilantro will take your pozole to the next level. Trust me; this makes a difference!
• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer more heat, feel free to increase the number of jalapeños.
• Don’t Rush the Shredding: Wait a little after cooking to shred the chicken. It helps keep the meat juicy.

Variations

Explore a few variations for a unique take on your Chicken Pozole Verde. For a vegetarian version, switch out the chicken for mushrooms or chickpeas. If you’re craving a different protein, use pork or beef in place of the chicken. And for spice lovers, adding poblano peppers or more jalapeños will surely satisfy your heat cravings!

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers (which might be a stretch because it’s so good), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to reheat, do so gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.

Pairing Ideas

Pair your Chicken Pozole Verde with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast. And of course, a side of tortilla chips or some crusty bread is always a great way to round out your meal.

FAQs

1. Can I make Chicken Pozole Verde ahead of time?
Absolutely! Feel free to prepare the soup a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it before serving.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze Chicken Pozole Verde?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

4. What toppings are recommended for Chicken Pozole Verde?
Common toppings include diced avocado, sliced radishes, lime wedges, sliced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. They really make the dish pop!

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.

This Chicken Pozole Verde recipe combines the warmth of home cooking with bold flavors, inviting you to enjoy the true essence of comfort food. Each spoonful speaks of cozy family gatherings and warm evenings shared with laughter. Grab your ingredients, gather your family, and create this delightful dish. It’s time to create delicious memories around the table!

More Easy Soups Recipes:

• Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Cream of Asparagus Soup
• Pea and Mint Soup
• Best Ever Tom Kha Gai Soup

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