Mexican Chicken Stew Recipe

I love cooking at home, especially with Mexican flavors. The mexican chicken stew recipe, or “pollo en salsa verde,” is a favorite. It’s a mix of bold spices, tangy tomatillos, and tender chicken. This makes it a hearty and comforting dish.

This dish has deep roots in Aztec and Nahua cultures. It’s been a staple for centuries. Over time, different regions and families have added their own twist. But the core flavors have stayed the same.

Key Takeaways

• Authentic Mexican chicken stew recipe with bold, flavorful ingredients
• Dish has rich cultural history and significance in Mexican cuisine
• Recipe is easy to make at home with the right techniques and ingredients
• Hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for family meals
• Versatile recipe can be customized to personal preferences

Why This Hearty Mexican Chicken Stew Became My Family’s Favorite

My grandma’s Mexican chicken stew was always a favorite in our home. The rich broth and tender chicken were comforting. As I grew older, I wanted to make her dish my own.

The Story Behind My Recipe

Traveling through Mexico changed my view of food. I saw how stews and soups were made. This inspired me to improve my grandma’s recipe.

What Makes This Version Special

My recipe stands out because of the ingredients and cooking. I use chicken thighs and breasts with roasted tomatillos and garlic. The dried chilies add heat and depth. Slow-cooking makes the flavors blend perfectly.

Cultural Significance and Tradition

Mexican chicken stew, or pollo en salsa verde, is loved by many. It connects families across generations. I use traditional methods to share this cultural treasure with my family.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Mexican Chicken Stew

Making a delicious Mexican chicken stew needs the right ingredients. From the tender chicken to the spices, each part is key. They all work together to bring out the rich flavors that make this dish special. Let’s look at what you need for the perfect chipotle chicken chili or salsa verde chicken stew.

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: This cut of chicken offers incredible flavor and tenderness, ensuring the meat remains juicy and succulent throughout the cooking process.
• Tomatillos: These tangy, green husked fruits add a remarkable depth of flavor and a subtle tartness that is essential for achieving the perfect balance in the stew.
• Chipotle chiles in adobo sauce: The smoky heat and complex flavor of these chilies are the backbone of the dish, providing the signature Mexican flair.
• Onions and garlic: These aromatic ingredients form the flavor base, lending their pungent notes to the overall profile.
• Cumin, oregano, and coriander: A harmonious blend of these warm spices enhances the earthy, robust character of the stew.
• Chicken broth: The liquid component that brings everything together, allowing the flavors to meld seamlessly.
• Lime juice: A final touch of acidity that brightens and balances the dish, cutting through the richness.

With these ingredients, you can make a truly authentic and tasty chipotle chicken chili or salsa verde chicken stew. It will impress your taste buds and warm your heart.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making the perfect mexican chicken stew is simpler than you think. Just follow these easy steps. You’ll get a hearty, flavorful stew that everyone will love.

1. First, season the chicken with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the spices cover all the chicken pieces evenly.
2. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a big pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes each side.
3. Take the chicken out of the pot and set it aside. Then, sauté the diced onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño until they’re soft, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for just one more minute. Stir constantly to avoid burning.
5. Next, add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and potatoes. Let it boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the potatoes are done.
6. Put the browned chicken back in the pot. Simmer for another 20-25 minutes. This will make the chicken fully cooked and the stew thick.
7. Check the flavor and adjust it if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or a bit of lime juice to enhance the taste.

For a mexican chicken stew crockpot version, just do the same steps. But instead of cooking on the stovetop, put everything in a slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

By following these simple steps, you’ll make a delicious, authentic mexican chicken stew. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Master Chef Tips for Authentic Flavor

Making a truly authentic mexican chicken stew needs careful attention to ingredients. As a seasoned chef, I’m excited to share my expert insights. These tips will help you unlock the full potential of this beloved dish.

Choosing the Right Chilies

The selection of chilies is key for the signature spice of mexican chicken stew. I suggest using a mix of dried chilies like ancho, guajillo, and chipotle. Each adds its own unique flavor, from the earthy sweetness of ancho to the smoky richness of chipotle.

Meat Selection Guidelines

For the most tender and juicy results, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. The higher fat content keeps the meat moist and flavorful, even after long simmering. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work well, but don’t overcook them.

Proper Seasoning Techniques

Seasoning is crucial for unlocking the full flavor of this dish. Start with a generous amount of cumin, oregano, and garlic in the initial sauté. As the stew simmers, adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, and a touch of lime juice to brighten the flavors.

If you have an Instant Pot, the pressure cooking function can cut down cooking time while keeping flavors exceptional. Just follow the same seasoning guidelines, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Variations and Regional Twists

The Mexican chicken stew is a true marvel of regional diversity. From Oaxaca’s smoky stews to Sinaloa’s tangy tomato-based ones, it highlights Mexico’s culinary richness.

The Yucatecan-style chicken stew is a favorite of mine. It combines Seville oranges’ citrus with achiote paste’s earthy sweetness. The result is a dish with a unique flavor. The chicken is so tender, it just falls apart.

The Michoacán-style chicken stew is perfect for those who want a filling meal. It includes potatoes, carrots, and peas, making it a hearty stew. The mix of dried chilies adds a complex, smoky flavor.

The Jalisco-style stew is another must-try. It’s known for its bright tomatillo broth and tender chicken. A hint of epazote herb adds a savory depth, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you prefer a spicy stew or a comforting, veggie-rich one, there’s a Mexican chicken stew for you. Exploring these regional variations is a journey through the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

My family loves mexican chicken stew, and I always serve it with tasty sides and garnishes. This stew is perfect with both classic and new pairings.

Traditional Accompaniments

• Warm, freshly baked corn tortillas
• Fluffy white rice, perfectly cooked
• Creamy refried beans, seasoned to perfection
• Crisp lettuce and diced tomatoes for a refreshing contrast
• Tangy lime wedges to add a burst of citrus

Modern Pairing Ideas

I also enjoy trying new side dishes with my stew. Here are some modern ideas that go well:

1. Roasted sweet potato wedges, tossed in chili powder and lime
2. A crisp, fresh salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a zesty lime vinaigrette
3. Cheesy cornbread or jalapeno cheddar biscuits for a comforting, carb-forward accompaniment
4. Grilled or sautéed vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions

Garnish Options

To make the stew look and taste better, I add different garnishes. Some of my favorites are:

• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Diced white onion
• Crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
• A drizzle of creamy avocado crema
• Crispy tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips

By offering both traditional and modern sides, and a variety of garnishes, I make the stew experience special. It’s a hit with my family and guests. Everyone finds something they love.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information

This Mexican chicken stew is not just tasty; it’s also good for you. It’s made with chicken tinga and chipotle chicken chili. These ingredients add flavor and nutrients.

The stew is packed with protein from chicken and beans. This is great for muscle health and repair. It’s a complete meal that’s balanced and satisfying.

• High in Protein: Chicken and beans provide a significant amount of protein, supporting muscle health and growth.
• Rich in Vegetables: The stew is brimming with nutrient-dense vegetables, such as tomatoes, onions, and peppers, delivering a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Low in Fat: With a focus on lean chicken and the absence of heavy creams or oils, this stew is a relatively low-fat option, making it a heart-healthy choice.

This stew can be made for different diets. You can use tofu or lentils for a vegetarian or vegan version. You can also adjust the spice or ingredients for special diets.

In conclusion, this Mexican chicken stew is delicious and healthy. It’s full of lean protein, fiber, and nutrients. It’s a great choice for a satisfying meal.

mexican chicken stew recipe

This authentic Mexican chicken stew, also known as pollo en salsa verde, is a family favorite that has been passed down through generations. Rich in flavor, tender chicken, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this dish is a celebration of Mexican culture. The blend of chipotle chilies and tomatillos provides the perfect balance of smoky heat and tanginess. It's a comforting dish for family meals and gatherings.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6

Ingredients

  

• bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
• - 4 tomatillos husked and diced
• - 2 chipotle chiles in adobo sauce minced
• - 1 onion diced
• - 3 cloves garlic minced
• - 1 tsp cumin
• - 1 tsp oregano
• - 1 tsp coriander
• - 4 cups chicken broth
• - 2 cups diced tomatoes
• - 2 medium potatoes peeled and diced
• - 1 lime juiced
• - Salt and pepper to taste
• - 2 tbsp oil for browning chicken
• - 1 bell pepper diced
• - 1 jalapeño diced
• - 1 tbsp chili powder
• - 1 tsp garlic powder
• - 1 tsp salt
• - 1 tsp black pepper

Instructions

 

• - Season the chicken thighs with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• - Heat oil in a large pot and brown the chicken on all sides (3-4 minutes per side). Remove the chicken and set aside.
• - In the same pot, sauté onions, bell pepper, and jalapeño for 5-7 minutes until softened.
• - Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
• - Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
• - Return the chicken to the pot and simmer for another 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
• - Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lime juice.
• - Serve hot with your choice of garnishes like cilantro, queso fresco, avocado crema, and crispy tortilla strips.

Notes

- For a richer flavor, use a mix of dried chilies like ancho, guajillo, and chipotle.
- Bone-in chicken thighs provide the most tender, flavorful result. You can substitute with chicken breasts but be careful not to overcook.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as you go, and always finish with a squeeze of lime juice to balance the richness.

Keyword mexican chicken stew

This salsa verde chicken stew is a true Mexican culinary gem. It has become a cherished family favorite. The vibrant flavors of the chilies and the tender chicken make it special. It’s a delightful celebration of Mexican cuisine.