How to Make Chicken Pozole Verde (Pozole Verde de Pollo)

What is Chicken Pozole Verde?

Pozole Verde is a traditional Mexican soup made with a base of hominy and a protein, which is typically either pork or chicken. The soup is typically flavored with a spicy broth made from a variety of green chilies, and it is often garnished with a variety of toppings including diced onions, shredded lettuce or green cabbage, sliced radishes, and lime wedges. Pozole Verde has a unique flavor profile, with the spiciness of the green chilies balanced by the sweetness of the hominy and the savory flavor of the meats. It is a hearty and comforting soup making it a popular choice for a main meal and is many times also served at special occasions and celebrations, such as birthdays and holidays.

Pozole Verde has its origins in the Mexican state of Guerrero, which is located in the southwestern part of the country. The dish is believed to have been created by the indigenous people of the region, who used corn as a staple in their diet. Over time, the dish has evolved and become a popular dish throughout Mexico, with many regional variations.

One of the key ingredients in Pozole Verde is the hominy. Hominy is made by soaking dried corn kernels in an alkaline solution, which removes the outer hull and germ of the kernel. The resulting kernels are larger and softer than regular corn, and they have a distinctive chewy texture. Hominy is a good source of fiber and protein, and it adds a unique texture and flavor to the soup.

The broth in Pozole Verde is made with green chilies, which gives the soup its spicy kick. The type of chili used can vary depending on the region, but common choices include poblano, anaheim, jalapeno, and serrano peppers. The broth is also flavored with a variety of other ingredients, such as onions, garlic, and cilantro.

In addition to the hominy and broth, Pozole Verde is typically made with a variety of meats, such as pork, chicken, or beef. The meat is sometimes cooked separately and then added to the soup just before serving. Some variations of the dish also include beans or other vegetables.

Pozole Verde is typically served with a variety of accompaniments, such as diced onions, shredded lettuce or green cabbage, sliced radishes, and lime wedges. These toppings add flavor and texture to the soup, and they can be added according to personal preference. Other popular accompaniments include diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco.

In addition to its delicious flavor, Pozole Verde has a number of health benefits. The hominy in the soup is high in fiber, which can help with digestion and weight management. The broth is also rich in antioxidants, which can help to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Overall, Pozole Verde is an incredibly delicious and nutritious traditional Mexican dish that is enjoyed by people all over. With its spicy broth, flavorful meats, and tender hominy, it is a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are a fan of Mexican cuisine or simply looking for a hearty and flavorful soup, Pozole Verde is definitely worth trying.

Ingredients for Chicken Pozole Verde (Pozole Verde de Pollo)

Let’s talk heat —

Jalapeños range from about 2,500-8,000 on the Scoville scale—they’re definitely not as spicy as a habanero pepper but they’ll pack more heat than a pepperoncini. If you’re not a big fan of heat, simply remove the seeds from the jalapeño and habanero before mixing it in with the rest of the ingredients (the seeds are what bring the heat) or exclude the jalapeño and habanero from this recipe altogether.

If you prefer MORE heat, consider swapping the jalapeño for a serrano pepper! Serranos typically measure from about 8,000-22,000 Scoville units, so they’re usually significantly spicier than a jalapeño. If you’re looking for something even spicier consider a Thai chili (also known as a bird’s eye chili), which ranges from 50,000-100,000 Scoville units.

Consider this portion of the recipe as a choose-your-own-adventure! 🔥

When it comes to poblano peppers, they are a type of chili pepper that is commonly used in Mexican cuisine. They are medium-sized peppers with a dark green color and a slightly sweet and smoky flavor. Poblano peppers are relatively mild in terms of heat, with a Scoville rating of 1,000 to 2,000 units. This puts them on the lower end of the Scoville scale, which measures the heat level of different peppers.

In comparison, jalapeno peppers have a Scoville rating of 2,500 to 8,000 units, while habanero peppers can range from 100,000 to 350,000 units. This means that poblano peppers are much milder in terms of heat than some other types of chili peppers.

Poblano peppers are often used in dishes such as chiles rellenos, mole sauce, and of course, Pozole Verde. They add a subtle heat and a rich, smoky flavor to these dishes. Poblano peppers can be found in many grocery stores and farmer’s markets, and they are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.

Anaheim peppers are a type of chili pepper that is commonly used in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine. They are long, green peppers with a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a thin skin. Anaheim peppers have a Scoville rating of 500 to 2,500 units, which puts them on the lower end of the Scoville scale. This means that they are relatively mild in terms of heat, making them a good choice for people who are sensitive to spicy foods.

Anaheim peppers are often used in dishes such as chiles rellenos, enchiladas, and salsas. They can also be roasted and served as a side dish or used to make dips and spreads. In addition to their mild flavor, Anaheim peppers are known for their versatility and can be used in a variety of dishes, just like this Chicken Pozole Verde! You should also be able to easily find these peppers at your local grocery stores and farmer’s markets.

Kitchen Tools to Make Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde

There are several kitchen tools that can be used to make Pozole Verde. Some of the most important tools include:

A large pot or Dutch oven: This is necessary for cooking the soup. A large pot or Dutch oven allows you to cook the soup in a single batch, making it easier to prepare and serve.

A blender or food processor: This is useful for pureeing the green chilies and other ingredients for the broth. A blender or food processor allows you to get a smooth, consistent consistency, which is important for creating a flavorful and well-balanced soup.

A sharp knife: A sharp knife is essential for chopping the vegetables and meats that go into the soup. A sharp knife allows you to make clean, precise cuts, which can help to improve the overall flavor and appearance of the soup.

A cutting board: A cutting board is necessary for preparing the vegetables and meats for the soup. A sturdy cutting board allows you to chop and dice ingredients safely and easily.

A ladle: A ladle is useful for serving the soup. A ladle allows you to portion out the soup and to ladle it into bowls or serving dishes.

By having these tools on hand, you’ll be well-equipped to make a delicious batch of Chicken Pozole Verde.

Ready to eat Chicken Pozole Verde (Pozole Verde de Pollo)

How to Make This Chicken Pozole Verde (Pozole Verde de Pollo):

Bring a large pot filled with the water, chicken, 1 tsp of salt and 1 bay leaf to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, lower the heat to a simmer and allow the chicken to cook for about 18-20 minutes. Remove the chicken and allow it to rest on a cutting board, but keep the reserved cooking water in the pot.
While the chicken cools, dry roast the tomatillos, jalapenos, poblano pepper, anaheim pepper, onion and garlic on the stovetop over medium-heat until everything is cooked through and charred on the outside.
Add all the peppers, tomatillos, onion, garlic to a blender, along with the fresh cilantro and epazote, and about 1 cup of the reserved cooking water, then blend on high until everything is completely smooth – at least 1 minute.
Once the chicken is cooled, shred into bite-sized pieces and add it back to the pot with the reserved cooking water. Bring the pot back to a simmer by placing it over medium heat, then add in the hominy, blended chili/herb mixture, dried oregano, bay leaves, ground cumin, salt and pepper. Stir and allow this to slowly simmer for 10 minutes.
Plate and garnish with shredded cabbage, chopped onion, sliced radishes and lemon wedges!

Full image of Chicken Pozole Verde (Pozole Verde de Pollo)

How to Store Leftover Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde

Homemade Pozole Verde can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to five days. It is important to allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to the container and placing it in the refrigerator. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria, which can cause the soup to spoil.

To store Pozole Verde in the freezer, transfer the cooled soup to a sealable plastic bag or container and place it in the freezer. The soup will stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to eat the soup, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator or microwave before reheating it on the stove or in the microwave.

It is important to make sure that the soup is heated to a safe temperature (at least 165°F) before serving, to ensure the elimination of any harmful bacteria. This is especially important if you are storing the soup for an extended period of time.

By following these storage guidelines, you can enjoy your homemade Pozole Verde for days or even weeks to come!

Chicken Pozole Verde (Pozole Verde de Pollo) – Tips & Tricks

If you don’t like spice, you can omit the jalapeño altogether, or simply remove the seeds.
If you can’t find epazote in your local market, you can also use the greens from the tops of radishes!

Other Latin-inspired recipes you’ll love —

Crispy Pumpkin and Potato Taquitos with Homemade Mole Sauce

Guatemalan Hilachas

Chicken Birria (Birria de Pollo)

Mexican Shrimp Ceviche with Clamato

Queso Fundido Stuffed Jalapeño Tacos

Crispy Baked Chicken Leg Quarters in Mole Sauce

Agua de Pepino (Cucumber Agua Fresca)

Creamy Salsa Taquera Anaranjada

If you make this Chicken Pozole Verde (Pozole Verde de Pollo), tag me on Instagram! Seeing you whip up my recipes makes me the happiest little bee!