Slow Cooker Chicken Pozole Verde Authentic
Highlighted under: Healthy Living Recipes
Experience the comforting flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine with this Slow Cooker Chicken Pozole Verde. Perfectly tender chicken is simmered with hominy and a vibrant green sauce made from tomatillos and jalapeños.
This Slow Cooker Chicken Pozole Verde is not just a dish; it's a celebration of flavors. The tenderness of the chicken combined with the zesty green sauce creates a delightful experience that warms the heart and soul.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and vibrant green sauce that tantalizes the taste buds
- Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
- Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
The Heart of Pozole Verde
Pozole Verde is a traditional Mexican soup that embodies the essence of comfort food. The vibrant green color comes from fresh tomatillos and jalapeños, creating a dish that is not only visually appealing but also rich in flavor. Each bowl of this pozole is a celebration of authenticity, bringing together simple ingredients that transform into a hearty meal. The use of chicken thighs ensures a tender texture that perfectly complements the chewy hominy.
In Mexico, pozole is often served during special occasions and family gatherings, symbolizing unity and tradition. With this slow cooker version, you can bring a taste of those celebrations into your home any day of the week. It’s a dish that invites everyone to gather around the table, making it ideal for both casual dinners and festive feasts.
Tips for Perfecting Your Pozole
To enhance the depth of flavor in your Slow Cooker Chicken Pozole Verde, consider roasting the tomatillos and jalapeños before adding them to the slow cooker. This simple step caramelizes their natural sugars, resulting in a more complex and satisfying sauce. Additionally, feel free to adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer jalapeños according to your taste preferences.
If you're looking to save time, you can prepare the ingredients the night before. Simply chop the vegetables and season the chicken, then store everything in the refrigerator. In the morning, all you need to do is transfer the ingredients to the slow cooker and let it do the work. This makes for an effortless dinner option that is ready when you are.
Serving Suggestions
When serving your pozole, presentation can elevate the dining experience. Prepare an array of garnishes such as chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and sliced radishes, allowing each guest to customize their bowl. Lime wedges add a refreshing burst of acidity that brightens the flavors, while crushed tortilla chips provide a delightful crunch.
For a complete meal, pair your pozole with warm corn tortillas or a side of Mexican rice. This not only complements the dish but also makes for a satisfying dining experience. Whether it's a casual weeknight or a special gathering, this pozole is sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients
For the Pozole
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cans (15 oz) hominy, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb tomatillos, husked and chopped
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced avocado
- Sliced radishes
- Lime wedges
- Crushed tortilla chips
Gather all your ingredients and get ready to create a delicious meal!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In a slow cooker, add the chicken thighs, hominy, chicken broth, onion, garlic, tomatillos, jalapeños, cumin, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs, shred them with two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Serve
Ladle the pozole into bowls and top with your choice of garnishes such as cilantro, avocado, radishes, lime, and tortilla chips.
Enjoy your delicious slow cooker chicken pozole verde!
Nutrition Information
This Slow Cooker Chicken Pozole Verde is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Each serving provides a good source of protein from the chicken, while the hominy adds fiber and essential vitamins. The tomatillos and jalapeños contribute antioxidants, making this dish a wholesome choice for any meal.
When garnished with fresh vegetables like avocado and cilantro, the nutritional profile of this pozole improves even further. Avocados provide healthy fats, while cilantro adds a boost of vitamins A and K. Overall, this recipe is a balanced option that satisfies both your taste buds and your health.
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftover pozole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much.
If you want to extend the life of your pozole, consider freezing it. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and enjoy a comforting bowl of pozole anytime you crave it.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this recipe with other meats?
Yes, pork or turkey can also be used in place of chicken for a different flavor.
→ Is pozole traditionally spicy?
Pozole can be made spicy or mild depending on the amount of jalapeños and other peppers used.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pozole can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ What sides go well with pozole?
Tortilla chips, rice, or a fresh salad pair wonderfully with pozole.
Slow Cooker Chicken Pozole Verde Authentic
Experience the comforting flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine with this Slow Cooker Chicken Pozole Verde. Perfectly tender chicken is simmered with hominy and a vibrant green sauce made from tomatillos and jalapeños.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Healthy Living Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pozole
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cans (15 oz) hominy, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb tomatillos, husked and chopped
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced avocado
- Sliced radishes
- Lime wedges
- Crushed tortilla chips
How-To Steps
In a slow cooker, add the chicken thighs, hominy, chicken broth, onion, garlic, tomatillos, jalapeños, cumin, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs, shred them with two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Ladle the pozole into bowls and top with your choice of garnishes such as cilantro, avocado, radishes, lime, and tortilla chips.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g