This easy chicken pozole verde recipe is a delightful and hearty Mexican stew that combines tender chicken with vibrant green chiles, smoky poblano peppers, and hominy. Perfect for a comforting meal, it brings a burst of flavor to your table with minimal effort.
Photos of Easy Chicken Pozole Verde Recipe
Some ingredients you might not have on hand include poblano peppers and white hominy. Poblano peppers add a mild smoky flavor and can be found in the produce section. White hominy, a type of dried maize, is typically located in the canned goods aisle or the Latin American foods section.
Ingredients for Easy Chicken Pozole Verde
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the onion and peppers, adding a base layer of flavor.
Yellow onion: Provides a sweet and savory depth to the soup.
Poblano pepper: Adds a mild smoky heat that complements the other flavors.
Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic and pungent qualities.
Green chiles: Contribute a mild heat and vibrant green color to the pozole.
Chicken stock: Forms the rich and savory broth base of the soup.
White hominy: Offers a unique texture and slightly nutty taste, essential to traditional pozole.
Cooked chicken: Provides protein and makes the soup hearty and filling.
Ground cumin: Adds warmth and an earthy flavor to the dish.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the soup.
One reader, Erda Ivey says:
This easy chicken pozole verde recipe is fantastic! The flavors are vibrant, and it's so simple to make. Perfect for a cozy dinner, and the whole family loved it. The hominy adds a great texture, and the spices are just right. Definitely adding this to our regular meal rotation!
Key Techniques for Making Chicken Pozole Verde
How to dice an onion: Peel the onion and cut it in half. Lay each half flat and make horizontal cuts, then vertical cuts to create small, even pieces. How to dice a poblano pepper: Cut off the top of the pepper, remove the seeds and membrane, then slice into strips and dice into small pieces. How to mince garlic: Peel the garlic cloves, then finely chop them using a knife or garlic press. How to cook chicken: Boil or bake the chicken until fully cooked, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces. How to sauté: Heat oil in a pan, add ingredients, and cook while stirring occasionally until they are soft and translucent.
How To Make Easy Chicken Pozole Verde
Experience the combination of flavors in this traditional pozole verde with a spicy kick from the pepper. Instead of pork, we are using chicken.
Serves:
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat.
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Add onion and poblano peppers and saute for 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.
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Add the garlic and saute for an additional minute, stirring occasionally.
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Add the diced green chiles, chicken stock, hominy, chicken, cumin, and salt, and stir to combine.
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Continue heating until the soup reaches a simmer.
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Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for at least 5 minutes. Taste, and season with extra salt and pepper if needed.
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Serve warm, topped with avocados, lemon wedges, and other desired garnishes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 265.80kcal
- Fat: 8.43g
- Saturated Fat: 1.91g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.90g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.83g
- Carbohydrates: 26.61g
- Fiber: 3.45g
- Sugar: 7.57g
- Protein: 20.39g
- Cholesterol: 44.77mg
- Sodium: 914.77mg
- Calcium: 39.66mg
- Potassium: 513.39mg
- Iron: 2.62mg
- Vitamin A: 37.67µg
- Vitamin C: 121.57mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Authentic Pozole Verde Flavor
When sautéing the onion and poblano pepper, make sure to cut them into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and enhances the overall texture of the pozole. Additionally, to bring out the natural sweetness of the onion, let it cook until it turns a light golden color before adding the garlic.
Time-Saving Tips for Easy Chicken Pozole Verde
Pre-cook the chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken breast to save time on cooking and shredding.
Use canned ingredients: Opt for canned green chiles and hominy to cut down on prep time.
Chop in advance: Dice the onion and poblano pepper ahead of time and store them in the fridge.
Simmer efficiently: Once the soup reaches a simmer, cover the pot to maintain heat and cook evenly.
One-pot cooking: Use a large stockpot to minimize cleanup and streamline the cooking process.
Substitute Ingredients For Easy Chicken Pozole Verde Recipe
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a similar smoke point, making it a good alternative for sautéing.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a slightly sharper flavor but can be used interchangeably in most recipes.
poblano pepper - Substitute with green bell pepper: Green bell peppers are milder but provide a similar texture and color.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic to maintain the garlicky flavor.
green chiles - Substitute with jalapeños: Jalapeños offer a similar heat level and can be used fresh or canned.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock provides a similar depth of flavor and is a good option for vegetarians.
white hominy - Substitute with canned corn: Canned corn has a different texture but can provide a similar sweetness and bulk to the dish.
cooked chicken - Substitute with cooked turkey: Cooked turkey has a similar texture and flavor, making it a suitable replacement.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a different flavor profile but can add a similar earthy note to the dish.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor.
Presentation Tips for Chicken Pozole Verde
Use a shallow, wide bowl: This allows the chicken pozole verde to be spread out, showcasing the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Layer the ingredients: Start with a base of hominy and chicken, then ladle the broth over the top, ensuring an even distribution of poblano peppers and onions.
Garnish artfully: Arrange thin slices of avocado in a fan shape on one side of the bowl. Place a few lemon wedges neatly on the edge.
Add a pop of color: Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro and radish slices over the top for a fresh, colorful finish.
Drizzle with a finishing oil: A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add a glossy finish and enhance the flavor.
Serve with a side of warm tortillas: Present a small stack of warm corn tortillas wrapped in a cloth napkin to keep them warm, adding a traditional touch.
Use a clean, elegant presentation: Wipe the edges of the bowl to ensure no drips or spills, maintaining a pristine look.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pozole Verde
Large stockpot: A large stockpot is essential for cooking the pozole as it provides ample space to combine all the ingredients and allows for even heating.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is useful for stirring the ingredients without scratching the surface of your pot.
Chef's knife: A chef's knife is necessary for chopping the onion, poblano pepper, and garlic efficiently.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a safe and stable surface for chopping vegetables and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are needed to accurately measure the olive oil, cumin, and salt.
Can opener: A can opener is required to open the cans of green chiles and hominy.
Ladle: A ladle is useful for serving the pozole into bowls.
Serving bowls: Serving bowls are necessary for presenting the finished pozole to your guests.
Tongs: Tongs can be helpful for handling the cooked chicken when adding it to the soup.
Measuring cup: A measuring cup is needed to measure the chicken stock accurately.
Storing and Freezing Homemade Chicken Pozole Verde
- To store leftover chicken pozole verde, allow the soup to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When reheating refrigerated pozole, place the desired portion in a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through. Add a splash of chicken stock or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the pozole verde. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Leave some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents before placing them in the freezer. Chicken pozole verde can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- To reheat frozen pozole, you can either thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place the frozen container in a bowl of warm water to speed up the thawing process. Once thawed, transfer the pozole to a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add some additional chicken stock or water to adjust the consistency.
- Note: The texture of the hominy may change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming softer than when freshly made. However, this will not significantly impact the overall taste of the dish.
How To Reheat Pozole Verde Leftovers
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover pozole verde to a large pot or Dutch oven. Heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a simmer. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the hominy and chicken are heated through. If the soup seems too thick, you can add a splash of chicken stock or water to thin it out.
Microwave method: place the desired amount of leftover pozole verde in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel or microwave-safe lid, leaving a small gap for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, then stir the soup. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through.
Slow cooker method: transfer the leftover pozole verde to a slow cooker. Cover and heat on low for 2-3 hours, or until the soup is heated through. This method is ideal if you have a large amount of leftover soup and want to reheat it slowly throughout the day.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the soup well to ensure even heating. Taste the reheated pozole verde and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, cumin, or other spices to taste.
When reheating, you may notice that the soup has thickened slightly in the refrigerator. If desired, you can thin it out with a little extra chicken stock or water until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Once reheated, serve the pozole verde hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as avocado, lime wedges, cilantro, radishes, or tortilla chips.
Interesting Fact About Pozole Verde
A random fact about this recipe is that pozole is a traditional Mexican soup that dates back to pre-Columbian times. It was originally made with maize and often featured in ceremonial occasions.
Is Making Pozole Verde at Home Cost-Effective?
This chicken pozole verde recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken, hominy, and green chiles are affordable and readily available. The use of olive oil, onion, and poblano pepper adds flavor without significantly increasing the cost. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.
Is Pozole Verde Healthy or Unhealthy?
The easy chicken pozole verde recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of protein, vegetables, and fiber. The use of chicken breast provides lean protein, while the hominy adds fiber and complex carbohydrates. The poblano pepper and green chiles contribute vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium. Additionally, the recipe uses minimal added fat, with only 1 tablespoon of olive oil for sautéing.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to boost its nutritional value:
- Increase the amount of vegetables by adding more poblano peppers, or include additional varieties like zucchini, carrots, or spinach to enhance the fiber content and provide a wider range of vitamins and minerals.
- Reduce the sodium content by using low-sodium chicken stock and adjusting the added salt to taste. Hominy can also be a significant source of sodium, so rinsing it before adding to the soup can help reduce the overall sodium content.
- Incorporate whole grain options, such as quinoa or brown rice, to increase the fiber and nutrient density of the dish.
- Serve with a variety of fresh garnishes like diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges to add healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamin C.
By making these adjustments, you can elevate the nutritional profile of the chicken pozole verde while maintaining its delicious flavor profile. The recipe's simplicity and use of wholesome ingredients make it a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Editor's Opinion on This Pozole Verde Recipe
This chicken pozole verde recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a comforting meal. The use of poblano peppers and green chiles adds a mild heat and depth, while the hominy provides a satisfying chewiness. The cumin and garlic enhance the overall aroma, making it irresistible. The simplicity of the recipe, with just a few steps and common ingredients, makes it accessible for home cooks. Garnishing with avocados and lemon wedges adds a fresh, vibrant touch. Overall, it's a well-balanced, flavorful dish that's sure to impress.
Enhance Your Easy Chicken Pozole Verde Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Easy Chicken Pozole Verde Recipe:
This easy chicken pozole verde recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a comforting and flavorful dish. With simple ingredients like poblano pepper, green chiles, and hominy, it delivers authentic Mexican flavors without the fuss. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof cooking experience, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Plus, the use of chicken stock and cooked chicken guarantees a rich and hearty soup that will warm your soul. Trust this recipe for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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