There’s something about a bowl of Chicken Pozole that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to slow down and savor each spoonful. The aroma of simmering chiles and garlic fills the kitchen, wrapping around you even before you sit down to eat. As the rich broth mingles with tender shredded chicken and hearty hominy, every bite tells a story of tradition and comfort.
One night last winter, after a day spent battling the chill outside, I came home to the slow-cooked magic of this pozole. The steam rising from the pot fogged up the windows, and the vibrant red broth promised more than just warmth—it promised a moment of peace. The crispness of fresh radishes and the zing of lime wedges cut through the richness just perfectly. It was a simple feast, but it felt like the most special meal I’d had in weeks.
- Rich, comforting flavors that make you feel at home
- Hearty and filling with tender chicken and hominy
- Versatile toppings like avocado and radishes add fresh texture
- Perfect for sharing around the table on cooler days
- A traditional dish that connects you to Mexican culinary roots
If you’re feeling hesitant about the chiles, don’t worry—their smoky depth is balanced and approachable, creating a flavor that’s vibrant but not overwhelming. Plus, the slow simmering makes the chicken incredibly tender and the broth beautifully infused.
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Chicken Pozole
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
A hearty and comforting traditional Mexican soup made with tender chicken, hominy, and a flavorful blend of spices and chiles. Perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium white onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
2 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups canned white hominy, drained and rinsed
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 lime, cut into wedges
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup thinly sliced radishes
1 avocado, sliced
Shredded iceberg lettuce, for garnish
Tostadas or tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Place the dried guajillo and ancho chiles in a small bowl and cover with hot water. Let soak for 15 minutes until softened.
Drain the chiles and transfer to a blender. Add 1 cup of chicken broth and blend until smooth.
Pour the chile puree into the pot with the onions and garlic. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the remaining chicken broth, hominy, chicken thighs, ground cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
Serve the pozole hot, garnished with lime wedges, chopped cilantro, sliced radishes, avocado slices, and shredded lettuce.
Accompany with tostadas or tortilla chips on the side.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
FAQ
Can I make this pozole ahead of time? Absolutely. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently.
What if I don’t have dried chiles? You can substitute with canned or fresh chiles, but the depth of flavor changes. The dried guajillo and ancho chiles give pozole its signature smoky warmth.
Is there a vegetarian version? Traditional pozole centers on chicken or pork, but you can try a vegetable broth base and add hearty mushrooms or squash for a meatless twist.
What are good sides for this soup? Tostadas or tortilla chips add a wonderful crunch, and fresh garnishes like shredded lettuce and avocado enhance the texture and flavor.
When you’re ready to cozy up with a bowl of soul-satisfying Chicken Pozole, this recipe is waiting to bring the warmth and flavor you crave. Save it, print it, and get ready to enjoy a meal that feels like home.