Chicken Pozole Verde

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Introduction

Chicken Pozole Verde is a soul-warming Mexican soup that brings together tender chicken, hominy, and a zesty green sauce made from tomatillos, cilantro, and chili peppers. The result is a rich, tangy, and vibrant soup that’s bursting with flavor in every spoonful.

I remember the first time I made this for a family get-together—it was such a hit that everyone was asking for the recipe! What I love about Chicken Pozole Verde is how versatile it is. You can customize it with various toppings like shredded lettuce, radishes, onion, or a squeeze of lime, adding texture and freshness to each bite. It’s perfect for cozy evenings or serving at a special gathering.

This recipe may sound complex, but it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a comforting bowl of pozole that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a festive occasion, Chicken Pozole Verde is the perfect dish to bring everyone together!

Perfect for:

  • Cozy dinners
  • Holiday celebrations
  • Family gatherings
  • Game day
  • Comfort food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pozole Verde

Here’s why Chicken Pozole Verde will become a favorite:

  • Hearty and Comforting: The chicken, hominy, and flavorful green broth make this soup incredibly satisfying.
  • Bright and Tangy Flavor: The verde (green) sauce made with tomatillos and green chilies gives this dish a fresh, tangy kick that perfectly balances the richness of the chicken.
  • Easy to Customize: Add your favorite toppings like shredded cabbage, radishes, or lime wedges to customize each bowl.
  • One-Pot Meal: This recipe is easy to make and only requires one pot for cooking, making cleanup a breeze.
  • Family-Friendly: This dish is both mild enough for kids and flavorful enough for adults, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Servings: 6-8 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chicken Pozole Verde:

  • 2 lbs bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ lbs tomatillos, husked and quartered
  • 2-3 green chilies (such as serrano or jalapeño), chopped
  • 1 cup cilantro leaves, loosely packed
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) hominy, drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Chicken Thighs: Using bone-in, skinless chicken thighs adds rich flavor to the broth and keeps the meat juicy. You can substitute chicken breasts if preferred.
  • Tomatillos: Tomatillos give the pozole its signature tartness and vibrant green color. They are key to creating the bright, tangy verde sauce.
  • Green Chilies: These add spice and depth to the broth, making the soup flavorful without being too hot. Adjust the quantity to suit your heat tolerance.
  • Hominy: This large, tender corn kernel gives pozole its signature texture and heartiness. It absorbs the flavors of the broth while adding a satisfying chew.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Chicken Pozole Verde:

Prepare the Chicken and Verde Sauce:

  1. Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then cook them in the pot for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Make the Verde Sauce: Add the tomatillos, green chilies, and cilantro to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatillos soften. Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. (Alternatively, use an immersion blender in the pot for a chunkier texture.)
  4. Simmer the Chicken: Return the chicken to the pot and pour the verde sauce over it. Add the chicken broth, cumin, and any additional salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Assemble the Pozole:

  1. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
  2. Add the Hominy: Stir in the hominy and continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  3. Taste and Adjust: Taste the pozole and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and lime juice, if desired.

Serve:

  1. Prepare the Toppings: While the pozole simmers, prepare your toppings. Common options include shredded cabbage, sliced radishes, chopped onions, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and crushed tortilla chips.
  2. Serve: Ladle the pozole into bowls and top with your desired toppings. Serve with additional lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

How to Serve Chicken Pozole Verde

Chicken Pozole Verde is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways:

  • With Toppings: Serve the pozole with a variety of toppings such as shredded cabbage, radishes, onion, cilantro, and lime for a refreshing contrast to the rich broth.
  • With Tortilla Chips: Serve with tortilla chips on the side or crush them over the soup for added crunch.
  • For a Hearty Meal: Serve with warm tortillas or a side of Mexican rice to make this a complete meal.
  • For Gatherings: This dish is perfect for serving a crowd. Set up a toppings bar and let everyone customize their bowls.
  • As a Leftover Meal: The pozole is even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop, so don’t hesitate to make it in advance!

Additional Tips for Chicken Pozole Verde

Here are some tips to ensure your Chicken Pozole Verde is perfect every time:

  • Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs: Bone-in chicken thighs add more flavor and tenderness to the broth. You can use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, but the flavor will be less rich.
  • Blender or Immersion Blender: A regular blender gives the sauce a smooth texture, but if you like a chunkier sauce, use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
  • Adjust the Heat: You can adjust the spice level by using more or fewer green chilies. If you want a milder pozole, remove the seeds from the chilies.
  • Use Fresh Tomatillos: Fresh tomatillos give the pozole a vibrant, tangy flavor. If you can’t find fresh ones, canned tomatillos can be used as an alternative.
  • Make it Ahead: Pozole gets better the next day as the flavors meld, so feel free to make it ahead of time. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations for Chicken Pozole Verde

Here are 10 variations you can try for Chicken Pozole Verde:

  • Pork Pozole Verde: Substitute the chicken for pork shoulder or pork loin for a different twist on the classic pozole verde.
  • Vegetarian Pozole Verde: Skip the meat and add extra vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
  • Spicy Pozole Verde: Add more chilies or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat.
  • Pozole Rojo: Make a red pozole by using dried chiles like guajillo or ancho in place of the green chilies.
  • Pozole with Hominy and Beans: Add a can of drained black beans for added protein and fiber.
  • Chicken Pozole Blanco: Skip the verde sauce and make a simpler, white pozole by using just chicken broth, garlic, and onions.
  • Chicken and Corn Pozole: Add extra corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) to give the pozole a sweeter taste.
  • Smoky Pozole Verde: Add a chipotle pepper or smoked paprika to the verde sauce for a smoky flavor.
  • Pozole with Avocado: Top the soup with diced avocado for a creamy, fresh touch.
  • Pozole with Lime and Mint: Add fresh lime juice and chopped mint leaves for a fresh, bright flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Chicken Pozole Verde

  • Freezing: This soup freezes well. To freeze, let the pozole cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a little more broth if necessary.

Special Equipment for Chicken Pozole Verde

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Chicken Pozole Verde easier:

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A large pot is essential for simmering the chicken and broth.
  • Blender or Immersion Blender: Use a blender or immersion blender to create a smooth verde sauce.
  • Shredding Tools: Two forks work great for shredding the chicken, or you can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for quicker shredding.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for the best flavor.
  • Ladle: A ladle makes it easy to serve the soup into bowls.
  • Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings station to let everyone customize their pozole.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chicken Pozole Verde

  1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
    Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Keep in mind that the broth may not have the same rich flavor without the bones.
  2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    Yes, pozole tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  3. Can I use frozen tomatillos?
    Fresh tomatillos are best, but frozen tomatillos can also be used if fresh ones aren’t available.
  4. How can I make this soup spicier?
    Add more chilies, or include a few dried chili de arbols for extra heat.
  5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
    Yes, you can make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables or beans.
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Chicken Pozole Verde

Print Recipe

Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts are a delightful combination of creamy, sweet custard, fresh strawberries, and a buttery, crisp tart shell. The honey adds a touch of natural sweetness to the custard, which perfectly complements the juicy strawberries on top. These tarts are not only visually stunning, with their vibrant strawberry topping, but they also offer a rich, indulgent flavor in every bite. Perfect for dessert tables, gatherings, or a special treat for yourself, these tarts are sure to impress.

  • Author: Isabella
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Chilling Time: Chilling Time:
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Tart Shell:

  • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2–3 tablespoons cold water

For the Honey Custard Filling:

  • 1 ½ cups whole milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For the Strawberry Topping:

  • 8–10 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for glazing)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Butter: The butter creates a rich, flaky tart shell that contrasts beautifully with the smooth custard.
  • Honey: Honey naturally sweetens the custard, adding depth of flavor without being overly sweet.
  • Strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide a burst of juicy sweetness and a bright pop of color.
  • Egg Yolks: Egg yolks are essential for creating a rich, creamy custard filling.
  • Vanilla Extract: The vanilla extract adds warmth and a slight floral note to the custard.

Instructions

Prepare the Tart Shell:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or butter 8 tart pans (preferably 4-inch size).
  2. Make the Tart Dough: In a food processor, pulse the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and 2 tablespoons of cold water, and pulse until the dough comes together. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time.
  3. Chill the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, shape it into a disc, and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Press it into the prepared tart pans, trimming the excess dough. Use a fork to prick the bottom of each tart shell to prevent bubbling during baking.
  5. Blind Bake the Shells: Line each tart shell with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown. Let the shells cool completely.

Prepare the Honey Custard Filling:

  1. Make the Custard: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk, heavy cream, and honey over medium heat until it begins to steam but not boil.
  2. Temper the Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt. Slowly pour about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Gradually whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture.
  3. Thicken the Custard: Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and pour through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl to remove any lumps.
  4. Cool the Custard: Let the custard cool slightly before pouring it into the cooled tart shells. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the custard to set.

Assemble the Tarts:

  1. Top with Strawberries: Once the custard has set, arrange the fresh strawberry slices on top of the custard in each tart.
  2. Glaze (Optional): For an extra glossy finish, drizzle a bit of honey over the strawberries to glaze them.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 250-300 kcal
  • Fat: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Protein: 5g

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Conclusion

Chicken Pozole Verde is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender chicken, hominy, and vibrant verde sauce blend together to create a rich and satisfying soup that’s sure to warm you up. Whether you’re serving it to a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is guaranteed to please.

With the option to customize your toppings and make it ahead of time, Chicken Pozole Verde is a versatile recipe that will quickly become a staple in your meal planning.

I’d love to see how your Chicken Pozole Verde turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creation. Happy cooking!