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    Home » Recipes » Chicken

    Green Chicken Pozole + VIDEO

    Published: Nov 16, 2021 · Updated: Nov 9, 2022 by Maggie Unzueta

    Green Chicken Pozole (Pozole Verde de Pollo) is a tasty and comforting Mexican stew. It’s filled with chicken and hominy swimming in a tangy tomatillo sauce.
    Jump to Recipe
    A spoon with pozole verde over the bowl and the toppings.
    A spoon with pozole verde over the bowl and the toppings.

    Green Chicken Pozole (Pozole Verde de Pollo) is so tasty and so comforting!

    This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    I like to make things easy for myself during the cooler months. There’s too much going on with all the holiday activities. 

    To save on time, I make extra sauces when I have a chance. That way, dinner is ready in a snap! 

    I do the same thing with Red Chicken Pozole (or Pozole Rojo de Pollo). That is, I will make the red sauce ahead of time. 

    My family gets fed a home cooked meal,  and the local pizza place isn’t delivering … again. 

    Table of Contents

    • 1 How to Make Salsa Verde
    • 2 🐓 How to Cook the Chicken
    • 3 👩🏼‍🍳 Pro Tips:
    • 4 🥄 More Pozole Recipes
    • 5 🙋🏻‍♀️ Frequently Asked Questions:
    • 6 🫙 Storing and Reheating
    • 7 Ideas for Toppings
    • 8 😋 Hungry for More?
    • 9 Green Chicken Pozole
      • 9.1 Ingredients
        • 9.1.1 To Cook the Chicken:
        • 9.1.2 For the Salsa Verde:
        • 9.1.3 To Make the Pozole:
      • 9.2 Instructions
        • 9.2.1 To Cook the Chicken:
        • 9.2.2 For the Salsa:
        • 9.2.3 To Make the Pozole:
      • 9.3 Video
      • 9.4 Notes
      • 9.5 Nutrition

    How to Make Salsa Verde

    A collage showing how to make salsa verde.
    • To start, add fresh tomatillos, serrano peppers, chopped onions, garlic, and about 10 cups of water in a large stock pot or a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
    • Bring this to a boil and cook for 7 minutes.
    • Remove from the heat.
    • Place the cooked ingredients in a food processor or high-speed blender. Add salt and fresh cilantro. Pulse until you get a smooth green sauce.

    Here, we’re making a basic salsa verde. Try making a double batch and freezing it in a sealable bag for up to 6 months. 

    In fact, you can use store-bought salsa verde instead and save yourself this step. 

    Great additions! Consider adding roasted poblano peppers or toasted pumpkin seeds. Swap out serranos for jalapeño peppers.   

    🐓 How to Cook the Chicken

    A collage showing how to cook and shred chicken.
    • Add the whole chicken pieces, salt, pepper, bay leaf, onion, garlic cloves, and water in a large stock pot. 
    • Bring to a boil and cook. 
    • Discard the onion, garlic, and bay leaf. 
    • Shred chicken.

    Once the chicken is cooked and tender, remove it and let cool slightly before shredding.

    Leave the chicken broth in the stock pot for the next step in this recipe. 

    A collage showing how to make chicken pozole verde.
    • Add white hominy to the large pot and let it simmer in the flavorful broth.
    • Return the shredded chicken to the pot. 
    • Add the salsa verde, Mexican oregano, and a bay leaf.
    • Let everything continue to cook together over medium heat until ready to serve.

    👩🏼‍🍳 Pro Tips:

    You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken but be sure to remove the skin so as not to interfere with the flavor profile.

    Use a slow cooker to infuse deeper flavors.

    If you find the soup too thick, add some remaining chicken broth or cooking liquid.

    Elevate your pozole with a bit more salsa verde for an extra kick.

    🥄 More Pozole Recipes

    • Pozole Blanco (White Pozole)
    • Red Beef Pozole
    • Pozole Rojo
    • Shrimp Pozole
    • Pozole de Frijol
    A wooden spoon with green pozole over a cooking pot.

    🙋🏻‍♀️ Frequently Asked Questions:

    Is chicken pozole verde healthy or unhealthy?

    It depends. Pozole can be healthy with its fiber-rich hominy and lean meats. However, versions with fatty meats, high sodium, or excessive toppings can make it less so. Mindful ingredient choices and moderation are key.

    What’s the difference between pozole and posole?

    “Pozole” and “posole” refer to the same traditional Mexican soup made with hominy and meat. The difference is in spelling: “Pozole” is used in Mexico, while “posole” is a variant seen in the U.S. Both represent the same rich dish that’s rooted in Mexican culture.

    What are the 3 types of pozole?

    The different versions of pozole are red, white, and green (like the Mexican flag). The difference comes from the vibrant green sauce made from green chiles and tomatillos, giving it unique and bright flavors compared to the red chile or white (without any chile) versions.

    What is an interesting fact about pozole?

    Pozole gets its name from the Náhuatl word “pozolli” and refers to the foam produced when corn is boiled. This stew dates back to pre-colonial times.

    🫙 Storing and Reheating

    • In the fridge, store the stew in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Or, store in a sealable freezer bag for up to 4 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
    • To reheat, place in a stock pot and cook for 5-6 minutes until warm.
    A picture of green chicken pozole served in a Mexican clay plate surrounded by all the toppings.

    Ideas for Toppings

    • Shredded cabbage
    • Shredded lettuce
    • Diced white onion
    • Jalapeno slices
    • Sliced serrano chiles
    • Cilantro
    • Radishes
    • Oregano
    • Totopos (Tortilla Chips)
    • Lime wedges

    This Green Chicken Pozole Recipe (Pozole Verde de Pollo) is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, history, and family.

    Whether you’re enjoying this traditional stew on a chilly evening or celebrating a special occasion, every bite of this great recipe will transport you straight to the heart of Mexican culture.

    😋 Hungry for More?

    Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter and follow along on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest for my latest recipes and videos.

    Did you make this recipe? Please rate the recipe below!

    A spoon with pozole verde over the bowl and the toppings.

    Green Chicken Pozole

    Green Chicken Pozole (Pozole Verde de Pollo) is a tasty and comforting Mexican stew. It’s filled with chicken and hominy swimming in a tangy tomatillo sauce.
    4.98 from 36 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Dinner
    Cuisine: Mexican
    Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 1 hour hour 40 minutes minutes
    Servings: 6 people
    Calories: 339kcal
    Author: Maggie Unzueta

    Ingredients

    To Cook the Chicken:

    • 10 cups water
    • 1 4 lbs chicken (skin removed, cut into 8 pieces)
    • 1 onion
    • 4 garlic cloves
    • 1 tablespoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon pepper
    • 1 bay leaf

    For the Salsa Verde:

    • 2 lbs tomatillos (about 16) husks removed and rinsed
    • 4 serrano peppers stems removed
    • 2 garlic cloves
    • ¼ onion
    • 4 cups water
    • ½ bunch cilantro
    • 1 lime juice
    • 1 teaspoon salt

    To Make the Pozole:

    • 1 teaspoon oregano (ground or whole)
    • ½ teaspoon salt (more if needed)
    • 1 bay leaf
    • 1 32-oz can hominy (drained and rinsed)

    Instructions

    To Cook the Chicken:

    • In a large stock pot, add the chicken, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
    • Cover with water and cook for 1 hour.
    • Once cooked, remove the chicken to cool slightly.
    • Discard the onion, garlic, and bay leaf.
    • Reserve the chicken broth inside the stock pot.
    • Shred the chicken and set aside.

    For the Salsa:

    • Remove the husks from the tomatillos and rinse well.
    • Place the tomatillos, serranos, onion, and garlic in a medium stock pot.
    • Cover with water and bring to boil.
    • Simmer for 7 minutes.
    • Discard the water.
    • Add all the ingredients from the pot into a blender.
    • To the blender, also add salt, lime juice, and cilantro.
    • Blend until smooth.
    • Set aside until ready to use.

    To Make the Pozole:

    • Add the oregano, bay leaf, salt, shredded chicken, and salsa to the pot with the chicken broth.
    • Drain and rinse the hominy.
    • Add the hominy to the pot and cook covered for 10 minutes.
    • Serve with your favorite toppings and enjoy.

    Video

    Notes

    If using rotisserie chicken, cook for only 10 minutes. 
    IDEAS FOR TOPPINGS
    Shredded cabbage, Shredded lettuce, Diced onion, Cilantro, Radishes, Oregano, Lime, Jalapeno slices, Toasted Chile de Arbol
     

    Nutrition

    Calories: 339kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 95mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 7g | Iron: 2mg
    Tried this recipe?Mention @MamaMaggiesKitchen or tag #MamaMaggiesKitchen!

    More Mexican Chicken Recipes

    • Empanadas de pollo served with a bowl of salsa on the side.
      Empanadas de Pollo (Chicken Empanadas)
    • Chicken Fajita Nachos served in a baking dish and topped with jalapeno slices.
      Chicken Fajita Nachos
    • A bowl of spicy chicken chipotle pasta topped with chopped parsley.
      Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta
    • Sopa de pollo con fideos served on a deep bowl with a spoon.
      Sopa de Pollo con Fideos

    About Maggie Unzueta

    Maggie Unzueta is the writer/blogger, photographer, recipe developer, videographer, and creator of In Mama Maggie's Kitchen. She has been developing easy and authentic Mexican food, Mexican-inspired recipes, and traveling tips since 2010. From family recipes to her extensive travels throughout Mexico, she brings traditional Mexican flavors from South of the Border and into your kitchen. Maggie has been featured in notable culinary websites and other media outlets. For more details, check out her About page.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Maya

      March 02, 2023 at 6:51 am

      5 stars
      Absolutely delicious! My husband couldn’t get enough of it.

      Reply
      • Maggie Unzueta

        March 28, 2023 at 10:21 am

        Thank you! Hope you and your husband like it.

        Reply
    2. Claudia

      July 10, 2022 at 6:12 pm

      Planning on making this week just a quick question when do you add the salsa? I’m guessing when you add the chicken back in the broth..?

      Reply
      • Maggie Unzueta

        July 12, 2022 at 11:09 am

        Yes, exactly. Add the chicken broth and salsa to the pot. Hope you enjoy!

        Reply
    3. Nancy

      May 25, 2022 at 9:09 am

      4 stars
      I love pork pozole and have made it many times. I like yor recipe, but I would use pork. .

      Reply
      • Maggie Unzueta

        August 03, 2022 at 8:54 am

        I have the pork version posted on here too. This is more for people who prefer chicken.

        Reply
    4. Adriana

      March 12, 2022 at 9:01 am

      5 stars
      An outstanding recipe that proves Mexican food can be healthful as well as delicious! Fun for St Patrick’s day! Thanks

      Reply
      • Maggie Unzueta

        May 12, 2022 at 6:07 pm

        Yes, I twist on St. Patricks Day, for sure.

        Reply
    5. Sabrina

      November 20, 2021 at 11:32 pm

      5 stars
      I am so in love with pozole! Thanks for the easy tips anc recipe. A favourite now 🙂

      Reply
      • Maggie Unzueta

        November 21, 2021 at 11:09 am

        I’m in love with pozole too. Glad you enjoyed it!

        Reply
    6. Addie

      November 20, 2021 at 7:37 pm

      5 stars
      So warm and cozy!

      Reply
      • Maggie Unzueta

        November 21, 2021 at 11:09 am

        Yes! The best.

        Reply
    7. Swathi

      November 20, 2021 at 3:17 pm

      5 stars
      Green chicken pozole looks yum.

      Reply
      • Maggie Unzueta

        November 23, 2021 at 10:07 am

        Thanks. It is YUM!

        Reply
    8. Jeri

      November 20, 2021 at 11:43 am

      5 stars
      This soup was delicious! Such great flavor!

      Reply
      • Maggie U

        August 15, 2022 at 3:42 pm

        Thanks for your comment.

        Reply
    9. Carmy

      November 20, 2021 at 11:38 am

      5 stars
      Such a delicious stew!

      Reply
      • Maggie Unzueta

        March 31, 2023 at 8:51 am

        Thank you!! 🙂

        Reply
    10. Amy

      November 19, 2021 at 7:32 pm

      5 stars
      What a great recipe! Love tomatillos too and love that you added that in this recipe.

      Reply
      • Maggie Unzueta

        March 31, 2023 at 8:53 am

        Thank you! So glad you enjoyed it.

        Reply
    11. Rob

      November 19, 2021 at 6:45 pm

      5 stars
      This chicken dish sounds delicious. Can’t wait to try it!

      Reply
      • Maggie Unzueta

        March 31, 2023 at 1:11 pm

        Yes! You should. This is soooo good.

        Reply
    12. Jessica

      November 19, 2021 at 3:30 pm

      5 stars
      OMG, sooooo good! Thanks so much for the recipe. Will definitely be making it again.

      Reply
      • Maggie Unzueta

        March 30, 2023 at 1:00 pm

        Thank you, love it when people try my recipes. So glad you enjoyed it!

        Reply
    13. Kristin

      November 19, 2021 at 3:28 pm

      5 stars
      My husband and I thought this was delicious!

      Reply
      • Maggie Unzueta

        March 31, 2023 at 12:14 pm

        This is one of my hubby’s favorites too. Hope you give this recipe a try.

        Reply
    14. Oscar

      November 19, 2021 at 2:49 pm

      5 stars
      Looks good, can’t wait to make this recipe.

      Reply
      • Maggie Unzueta

        March 31, 2023 at 8:56 am

        Thank you! Hope you like it.

        Reply
    15. Luly O

      November 17, 2021 at 3:25 pm

      5 stars
      Just mde it today! Easy, healthy and really delicious!! Thank you!

      Reply
      • Maggie Unzueta

        November 21, 2021 at 11:12 am

        Yay! So glad you liked this recipe. You’re quite welcome.

        Reply

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    iBienvenidos! I'm Maggie. Welcome to my blog! My passion is authentic Mexican food and traveling throughout Mexico to bring you the very BEST in culture and cuisine.

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