Crockpot Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde

Name: Crockpot Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 cans (4 oz each) green chilies; 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 cans (15 oz each) hominy, drained; 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed); 1 medium sweet onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on March 19, 2025

A warm bowl of Crockpot Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde can brighten any dreary day. Imagine tender chicken simmering in a vibrant green broth, infused with spices and topped with fresh garnishes that add a burst of color and flavor. Your kitchen will smell like a fiesta as the savory aromas waft through the air.

I remember the first time I made this dish for friends during a game night. The laughter echoed as they dug into their bowls, each bite eliciting smiles and happy comments about how comforting this soup was. It’s perfect for cozy evenings or lively gatherings where everyone shares good food and great stories.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Crockpot Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde offers an effortless way to enjoy this authentic dish
With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it while it simmers to perfection
Its rich flavors are complemented by vibrant toppings that make every bowl visually appealing
Perfect for casual dinners but impressive enough for special occasions!

My friends couldn’t get enough of this pozole at our last gathering; it was a hit that had everyone asking for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Thighs add juiciness; they won’t dry out during long cooking times.
Green Chilies: Use canned or fresh; they provide heat and flavor that enhances the broth.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness; chop finely before adding as a garnish.
Hominy: Use canned hominy for convenience; it adds texture and an authentic taste to pozole.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens flavors; always add at the end for the best taste.
Onion: A sweet onion works best; sauté until translucent for added depth in flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic cloves provide aromatic goodness; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control salt levels in your dish.
Cumin and Oregano: These spices bring warmth and earthiness; use ground cumin for better integration into the broth.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; adjust according to taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare yourself for an adventure in cooking as we whip up this delightful dish step by step!

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onion and mincing garlic. Drain hominy from its can while measuring out your spices—this makes everything organized and ensures smooth sailing later.

Brown the Chicken: In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken thighs until golden brown on both sides. This step enhances flavor through caramelization—don’t skip it!

Add Everything to the Crockpot: Place seared chicken thighs in your slow cooker along with onion, garlic, green chilies, hominy, spices, and broth. Stir gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Set Your Slow Cooker: Cover and set your crockpot on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender your chicken will become!

Add Final Touches: Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the pot using two forks. Squeeze fresh lime juice over top before serving—it brightens every bite!

Now you’re ready to ladle this delectable pozole into bowls! Enjoy garnishing with chopped cilantro and avocado slices.

Crockpot Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde is not just food; it’s comfort served warm in a bowl! Each spoonful brings a mix of flavors that dance on your palate—perfectly warming during chilly nights or festive gatherings!

You Must Know

This delicious Crockpot Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde is a game-changer for busy weeknights
The slow cooking melds flavors beautifully, and the aroma will make your mouth water
Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers for days!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the chicken in a skillet to enhance flavor, then transfer it to the crockpot with all ingredients. This step ensures your pozole verde has that delightful depth.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize with toppings like avocado, radishes, or crunchy tortilla strips. You can also swap chicken for pork or add more veggies as you see fit.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low in the crockpot or gently on the stove to maintain texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh tomatillos for a bright flavor; they’re the star of this pozole verde
Ensure chicken is cooked through before shredding—this guarantees tender meat
Don’t rush your simmering time; flavors develop beautifully with patience

I once made this dish for my family during a rainy Sunday and received rave reviews. My mom even asked for the recipe, which made me feel like a culinary superstar!

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for Crockpot Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde?

Yes, just ensure it’s fully cooked before shredding.

What can I substitute for tomatillos?

Green tomatoes or salsa verde can be used in a pinch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just be cautious with any added toppings like tortillas.