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"Tinga de Pollo taste testing with a fork and seasoning adjustments"

Tinga de Pollo Recipe: The Most Flavorful Mexican Dish to Try!

Tinga de Pollo is a classic Mexican dish featuring tender shredded chicken simmered in a smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet tomato-chipotle sauce. This dish is packed with bold flavors and makes for the perfect topping for tostadas, tacos, or rice bowls. With its deep roots in Puebla, Mexico, Tinga de Pollo brings a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine to your table with minimal effort!

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 34 medium ripe tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)

  • 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust to taste)

  • 1 large white or yellow onion, thinly sliced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup chicken broth

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh cilantro

  • Queso fresco

  • Mexican crema

  • Avocado slices

  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Cook & Shred Chicken: Boil the chicken breasts in water until fully cooked (about 20 minutes). Let cool, then shred using two forks. Set aside.

  2. Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine the tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and chicken broth. Blend until smooth.

  3. Sauté Onions & Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  4. Simmer the Sauce: Pour the blended sauce into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir in oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

  5. Combine Chicken & Sauce: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and mix well, ensuring each piece is coated in the sauce. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning as needed.

  6. Serve & Enjoy: Serve warm on tostadas, tacos, or over rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro, queso fresco, crema, or avocado as desired.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add an extra chipotle pepper.

  • For a milder version, use fewer chipotle peppers and stir in a spoonful of crema to mellow out the heat.

  • Make-Ahead Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

  • Serving Suggestions: Serve with refried beans, Mexican rice, or fresh salsa for a complete meal.

  • Author: recipes gather
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Mexican
  • Cuisine: Main Course

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Serves 4
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg