Pozole, a beloved Mexican stew, is traditionally a time-consuming affair. But with the magic of a slow cooker, you can enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish without spending all day in the kitchen. This recipe for Slow Cooker Chicken Pozole Verde offers a vibrant, green twist on the classic, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a festive gathering. Get ready to savor the rich, complex flavors of hominy, tender chicken, and a zesty tomatillo-based broth.
What is Pozole?
Before diving into the recipe, let's explore the origins of this delicious stew. Pozole is a traditional Mexican dish with a history rooted in pre-Hispanic times. It typically features a savory broth, hominy (dried corn kernels), and meat – often pork, but chicken and other meats are also popular variations. The "verde" in Pozole Verde signifies the vibrant green color achieved through the use of tomatillos, jalapeños, and other fresh green chilies. This version offers a lighter, brighter flavor profile compared to the traditional red pozole.
Slow Cooker Chicken Pozole Verde Recipe
This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings. Adjust ingredient quantities as needed for larger or smaller batches.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 4 jalapeños, seeded and roughly chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 large white onion, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can hominy, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, radishes, avocado, tortilla chips
Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and jalapeños and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the tomatillos, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
- Add Hominy: Stir in the rinsed and drained hominy.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother, more velvety broth, you can carefully blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or carefully transferring portions to a regular blender. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
- Return Chicken: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Serve: Ladle the pozole into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and your favorite toppings.
How Long Does Chicken Pozole Verde Last?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, leftover Chicken Pozole Verde will last for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage – up to 3 months.
Can I Use Other Meats in Pozole Verde?
Absolutely! While chicken is a popular choice, you can easily substitute other meats like pork, beef, or even turkey. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, depending on the type of meat used.
What are Some Good Toppings for Pozole Verde?
The beauty of pozole is its versatility! Experiment with different toppings to create your perfect bowl. Some popular options include:
- Shredded lettuce: Adds a refreshing crunch.
- Radishes: Provide a peppery bite.
- Avocado: Creamy and rich.
- Tortilla chips: For added texture.
- Sliced onions: For a sharper flavor.
- Sour cream or crema fresca: For a creamy, tangy element.
Is Pozole Verde Spicy?
The spice level of your Pozole Verde is entirely customizable. You can adjust the amount of jalapeños used, or add other chili peppers to increase the heat. If you prefer a milder version, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before adding them to the slow cooker.
Enjoy your delicious and easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pozole Verde! This recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Remember to adjust seasonings to your taste preferences. Happy cooking!
