Tinga is a Mexican dish of tender shredded chicken in a spicy tomato and chipotle chile sauce served on crunchy tostada shells. This recipe is easy to make and great for feeding a crowd!
Mexican Chicken Tinga Recipe :
If you love bold Mexican flavors, Chicken Tinga is a must-try! This dish combines tender shredded chicken with a rich, slightly spicy sauce made from tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and onions. It’s a family favorite and a staple in many Mexican households.
History of the Recipe :
Tinga (or “Tinga de Pollo”) originates from Puebla, Mexico, a region famous for its rich culinary traditions. It is believed to have been created as a practical way to use leftover chicken by simmering it in a smoky and tangy sauce. Today, it is a popular dish throughout Mexico, enjoyed in various forms such as tostadas, tacos, and even as a filling for tamales.
Subscribe to our youtube channel Kitchenpedia for more delicious recipes and hit the like button if you enjoyed this youtubevideo. Share it with your friends and Family.
Mexican Chicken Tinga Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Crumbled queso fresco (optional)
- Tostadas or warm tortillas for serving
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: In a medium pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the chicken for about 15 minutes until fully cooked. Shred the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Prepare the sauce: Blend tomatoes, chipotle peppers, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar in a blender until smooth.
- Simmer the Tinga: Pour the sauce into the pan with the onions and add the chicken broth and bay leaf. Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the shredded chicken: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and let everything simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf, garnish with cilantro, and serve on tostadas or in warm tortillas with queso fresco.
Notes
- Adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer chipotle peppers.
- You can make Tinga ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For a richer flavor, use fire-roasted tomatoes.
Tips for Mexican Chicken Tinga Recipe :
- If you don’t have fresh tomatoes, use canned fire-roasted tomatoes for extra depth.
- Serve with avocado slices, pickled onions, or a squeeze of lime for added freshness.
- Try using leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
FAQS for Mexican Chicken Tinga Recipe :
-
Can I make Chicken Tinga in advance?
Yes, you can make Chicken Tinga in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. -
What’s the best way to serve Chicken Tinga?
The best way to serve Chicken Tinga is on crispy tostadas, in tacos, or over rice with fresh toppings. -
Can I make Tinga with beef or pork?