Crockpot Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde is the ultimate comforting meal, packed with bold flavors and easy preparation. This slow-cooked classic combines tender shredded chicken, hominy, and vibrant salsa verde for a rich and hearty dish. The tanginess from lime and freshness from cilantro elevate the broth, creating a perfectly balanced bowl of goodness. Perfect for meal prepping or a cozy dinner, this recipe lets the crockpot do all the heavy lifting while you enjoy the mouthwatering aroma filling your home. Whether served on its own or garnished with fresh avocado, jalapeños, and extra lime, this pozole is guaranteed to satisfy!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 (25 oz) can Mexican-style hominy, drained and rinsed
- 1 (16 oz) jar roasted salsa verde
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilis
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 onion, peeled and quartered
- 1 bulb garlic
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro
- 1 (32 oz) carton chicken stock
- 2 limes, juiced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings/Serving Suggestions:
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
- Sliced fresh jalapeños
- Sliced avocado
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and quarter the onion. Trim the outer skin of the garlic bulb, leaving it intact. Slice off the top of the garlic bulb to expose the cloves. Toss the onion with olive oil and brush the garlic with olive oil. Roast on a foil-lined baking sheet for 30-40 minutes until the onions are charred and the garlic is golden brown.
- While the onions and garlic roast, blend the cilantro (including stems) with 1 cup of chicken stock in a blender until finely chopped.
- In a crockpot, add the chicken thighs, blended cilantro mixture, remaining chicken stock, salsa verde, and diced green chilis.
- Once the onions and garlic have roasted, squeeze the softened garlic cloves into the crockpot and add the roasted onions. Set to high and cook for 4 hours.
- After 4 hours, remove the chicken thighs and let them cool. Discard the skin and bones, then shred the meat using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot. Stir in the drained hominy, lime juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional hour on high.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, jalapeño slices, and avocado if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 hours 40 minutes | Total Time: 5 hours 50 minutes
Kcal: ~300 kcal per serving | Servings: 8
Introduction to Crockpot Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde
Mexican cuisine is known for its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and deep cultural history. One dish that perfectly embodies all these characteristics is Pozole Verde, a comforting and traditional soup made with hominy, chicken, and a zesty green broth. This Crockpot Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde version simplifies the process by letting your slow cooker do all the work while still delivering authentic and bold flavors. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd. It’s hearty, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. If you’re looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make soup that combines tradition with convenience, this slow cooker pozole verde is the answer.
What Is Pozole Verde?
Pozole is a beloved Mexican dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It dates back to the Aztec civilization, where it was often prepared for special occasions and celebrations. The word “pozole” comes from the Nahuatl language, meaning “foamy” or “boiled corn,” referring to the hominy that gives the soup its signature texture.
There are three main types of pozole:
- Pozole Rojo (Red Pozole) – Made with dried red chilies for a smoky, deep red broth.
- Pozole Blanco (White Pozole) – A simpler version without chili-based sauces.
- Pozole Verde (Green Pozole) – Made with salsa verde, tomatillos, green chilies, and cilantro, giving it a fresh and tangy taste.
Our Crockpot Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde stays true to the traditional green pozole but makes the cooking process effortless with a slow cooker method.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless Cooking
- One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s mostly hands-off. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to develop while you go about your day.
Big on Flavor, Minimal Effort
- By using store-bought roasted salsa verde instead of roasting tomatillos from scratch, this recipe cuts down on prep time while still packing a punch of authentic flavors.
Nutritious & Wholesome
- This soup is naturally gluten-free, high in protein from the chicken, and packed with fiber and essential nutrients from hominy and vegetables.
Meal Prep & Freezer-Friendly
- Pozole verde stores well and tastes even better the next day! It’s an excellent meal prep option and can be frozen for future meals.
Customizable & Versatile
- This recipe is easy to tweak based on your preferences. You can adjust the spice level, add more veggies, or swap out the chicken for pork or turkey.
Ingredients Breakdown & Their Benefits
Hominy – The Star of Pozole
Hominy is dried corn kernels that have been treated with lime (calcium hydroxide), making them softer and easier to digest. It’s rich in:
- Fiber – Aids digestion and promotes gut health.
- B vitamins – Essential for energy and brain function.
- Antioxidants – Help fight inflammation.
Chicken Thighs – Flavorful & Juicy
- Instead of chicken breasts, this recipe uses bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for deeper flavor and tenderness. You can use boneless thighs for an even easier shredding process.
Salsa Verde – A Burst of Freshness
The use of roasted salsa verde (store-bought or homemade) adds a tangy, smoky, and mildly spicy flavor that makes this pozole truly shine. It’s made from:
- Tomatillos – High in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Green chilis – Add a mild heat and boost metabolism.
- Cilantro – A fresh herb known for detoxifying properties.
- Roasting these aromatics before adding them to the crockpot enhances their natural sweetness and adds complexity to the broth.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Roasting for Maximum Flavor
- Preheat your oven and roast the onion and garlic. This step is crucial because it deepens the flavors, making the broth more aromatic and rich.
Blending the Cilantro Mixture
- Blend fresh cilantro with chicken stock to infuse the broth with a vibrant green color and herby freshness.
Slow Cooking for the Best Results
- Add everything to your slow cooker and let the magic happen. The chicken, salsa verde, hominy, and seasonings will simmer together, creating an incredibly flavorful soup.
Shredding the Chicken
- After a few hours, remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the crockpot. This ensures that every bite is tender and juicy.
Final Touches & Garnishing
- Finish the soup with fresh lime juice, cilantro, avocado, and jalapeños for the perfect balance of acidity, creaminess, and spice.
Serving Suggestions
Pozole is traditionally served with a variety of toppings to enhance the flavors and textures. Here are some delicious additions:
- Sliced Avocado – Adds creaminess and a rich texture.
- Shredded Cabbage or Radishes – Provides a crisp and refreshing bite.
- Queso Fresco or Cotija Cheese – Adds a salty, tangy element.
- Toasted Tortilla Strips or Chips – A crunchy contrast to the soup’s soft texture.
- Extra Lime Wedges – For a bright, citrusy kick.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Pozole Verde
- Use Bone-In Chicken – It gives the broth a richer flavor. Remove the bones before serving for a smooth eating experience.
- Roast Your Garlic & Onion – This step deepens the flavor and makes a world of difference.
- Don’t Skip the Toppings – The garnishes elevate this dish and add extra layers of flavor.
- Make It Spicier – Add extra diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Let It Sit Overnight – Like most soups, pozole tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Health Benefits of Pozole Verde
- High in Protein: Chicken provides muscle-building protein, keeping you full and satisfied.
- Immune-Boosting: Garlic, onion, and lime juice help strengthen your immune system.
- Gut-Friendly: Hominy is packed with fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Cilantro and tomatillos contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Pork Instead of Chicken?
- Absolutely! Traditionally, pork is used in pozole, so you can swap out the chicken for pork shoulder and cook it for the same amount of time.
How Long Does Pozole Verde Last in the Fridge?
- It stays fresh for 4-5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I Freeze This Pozole?
- Yes! Let it cool completely and store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat on the stove.
Conclusion
Crockpot Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde is the perfect balance of tradition and convenience. It delivers bold Mexican flavors with minimal effort, making it ideal for home cooks who love delicious meals without the hassle. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or serving a crowd, this hearty and comforting pozole will always be a winner. Give it a try, and enjoy a taste of Mexico in your own kitchen!