Pozole Verde Recipe | Hearty Chicken Pozole Verde

If you're craving a comforting bowl of traditional Mexican goodness, Chicken Pozole Verde is a must-try! This hearty, flavorful soup blends tender chicken, hominy, and a vibrant green broth made with tomatillos, chilies, and fresh herbs.

Why You'll Love This Hearty Meal

• Quick & Easy. Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients.
• Healthy & Nutritious. Packed with lean protein and wholesome ingredients.
• Customizable. Adjust the heat level and toppings to your liking.
• Authentic Flavors. Enjoy a taste of Mexico right in your kitchen.

Whether it's for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress!

What Is Pozole Verde?

Chicken Pozole Verde is a traditional Mexican soup, or stew, featuring shredded chicken, hominy, and a bright green broth made with tomatillos, poblano peppers, and cilantro. "Pozole" means hominy in Spanish, which is a key ingredient that gives this dish its unique texture and flavor.

Is Pozole Verde Healthy?

Pozole Verde is hearty and filling, making it easy to enjoy a satisfying meal without overeating. Pair it with a light side like a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.

With its blend of wholesome ingredients and flexibility to suit dietary needs, Chicken Pozole Verde is a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!

Ingredients You'll Need

• Chicken- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs provide tender, juicy meat that shreds easily after cooking.
• Hominy- These large, chewy kernels of corn are a signature ingredient in pozole, adding texture, substance, and a slightly nutty flavor to the soup.
• Tomatillos- The key to the verde broth, providing a tangy and slightly acidic flavor that gives the dish its distinct green color and refreshing taste.
• Poblano Peppers & Jalapeños- These peppers add depth and a smoky heat to the broth. Poblanos are milder and contribute a rich, earthy flavor, while jalapeños add a spicier kick.
• Garlic & Onion- Garlic and onion are the aromatic base of the broth, offering savory depth and enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
• Cilantro- Fresh cilantro brightens the flavors of the broth, adding a herbal and slightly citrusy note that complements the tanginess of the tomatillos.
• Chicken Broth- Forms the savory, flavorful soup base that ties all the ingredients together, creating a rich and comforting dish.
• Spices (Cumin, Oregano, Salt, and Pepper)- Cumin and oregano add earthy, warm, and slightly floral undertones, balancing the tanginess of the tomatillos and the heat of the peppers.
• Shredded Cabbage- Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch.
• Radishes- Provide a peppery bite that contrasts with the rich broth.
• Avocado- Adds creaminess and balances the spiciness.
• Lime Wedges- Offer a zesty acidity that enhances the verde flavors.
• Tortilla Chips- Add a satisfying crunch and a hint of corn flavor.
  
  These ingredients work together harmoniously to create the bold, tangy, and flavorful experience that makes Pozole Verde a beloved classic!

How To Make Pozole Verde

1. Prepare the Verde Sauce. Roast tomatillos, poblano peppers, jalapeños, garlic, and onion until charred. Blend with fresh cilantro, cumin, and a splash of chicken broth until smooth.
2. Cook the Chicken. In a large pot, boil chicken breasts or thighs in chicken broth until cooked through. Remove, shred, and set aside.
3. Simmer the Broth. Add the verde sauce to the pot of chicken broth. Stir in hominy and let it simmer for 15 minutes to marry the flavors.
4. Combine and Heat Through. Return shredded chicken to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
5. Serve with Toppings. Ladle the pozole into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings like shredded cabbage, radishes, and a squeeze of fresh lime.

Tips And Tricks

By following these tips and tricks, your Chicken Pozole Verde will turn out delicious every time:

• Char Your Veggies. Roasting the tomatillos and peppers enhances the flavor of the verde sauce.
• Adjust Heat Levels. For a milder soup, use fewer jalapeños or substitute with Anaheim peppers.
• Make It Ahead. Pozole tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Variations

Here are some creative and delicious variations to try when making Chicken Pozole Verde:

• Vegetarian- Replace chicken with mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spicy- Add more jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
• Pork- Swap chicken for pork shoulder for a traditional twist.
• Creamy- Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream for a richer broth.

What To Eat With Pozole Verde

Chicken Pozole Verde is a flavorful and hearty dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some delicious options to complete your meal:

• Warm Tortillas- Perfect for scooping up the hearty stew.
• Mexican Rice- A flavorful side dish to round out the meal.
• Elote- Adds a sweet and savory complement.
• Refreshing Beverages- Pair with agua fresca, horchata, or a cold cerveza.

How Long Does It Last?

Pozole Verde is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the pozole gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes, Chicken Pozole Verde freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or saving leftovers.

Properly stored, Chicken Pozole Verde can be frozen for up to 3 months without significant loss of flavor or quality.

More Mexican-Inspired Recipes

• Tacos de Alambre
• Enchiladas Suizas
• Mexican Pulled Pork
• Caldo de Pollo
• Instant Pot Tamale Pie

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