If you’re craving something warm, hearty, and absolutely bursting with flavor, Chicken and Tomato Pozole is your answer. This Mexican-inspired stew blends tender chicken with fire-roasted tomatoes and chewy hominy, creating a satisfying meal that comforts with every bite.
Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also endlessly customizable with vibrant toppings like fresh cilantro, crunchy radishes, and crisp cabbage. Perfect for chilly evenings or family dinners, this pozole is a one-pot wonder that delivers a soul-satisfying experience without the fuss.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
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1 teaspoon kosher salt
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1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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1 medium onion, chopped
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 teaspoons ground cumin
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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1 (28-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
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1 (15-ounce) can white hominy, drained and rinsed
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Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
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Lime wedges, for serving
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Thinly sliced radishes, for topping
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Shredded cabbage, for topping
Directions:
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Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
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Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the pot and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in the onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
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Add the garlic, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Pour in the chicken broth and tomatoes with their juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Stir in the hominy and cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chicken to cook through.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, lime wedges, radishes, and cabbage.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
What Makes This Chicken and Tomato Pozole Special?
What sets this pozole apart is its beautiful balance of flavors and textures. The juicy, bite-sized pieces of chicken soak up the robust broth enriched with spices like cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika, adding layers of depth without overwhelming the palate. Fire-roasted diced tomatoes contribute a slight smokiness and tang, harmonizing with the mild, nutty flavor of hominy — a uniquely chewy corn kernel that gives pozole its unmistakable heartiness.
This dish is also incredibly customizable. Traditional toppings like shredded cabbage, sliced radishes, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges allow each eater to tailor their bowl to their taste, adding crunch, freshness, and zest. Whether served at a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, Chicken and Tomato Pozole is versatile, satisfying, and brimming with bold flavors.
The Cultural Significance of Pozole
Pozole is much more than a dish; it’s a cultural treasure in Mexico, steeped in history and tradition. Originally consumed by the Aztecs during sacred ceremonies, pozole was made with maize that held symbolic meaning. Over time, as culinary practices evolved, the stew adapted into various regional styles across Mexico — from the green pozole of Guerrero, to the red pozole of Jalisco, and the white pozole from Sinaloa.
In contemporary Mexican households, pozole is often reserved for major celebrations like birthdays, Christmas, and Mexican Independence Day. Its deep ties to community and festivity make every spoonful a celebration of heritage and family.
This Chicken and Tomato Pozole pays homage to those traditions while adapting the process for modern kitchens. Using easily accessible ingredients and simplifying the steps, this version makes it possible for anyone to enjoy a taste of authentic Mexican comfort without spending hours in the kitchen.
Key Elements That Bring Out the Best Flavors
Chicken Thighs: Dark meat, such as thighs, remains juicy and tender even after simmering, absorbing the rich broth perfectly.
Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: The charred flavor from the fire-roasted tomatoes introduces a subtle smokiness that enhances the stew’s complexity without the need for additional grilling or roasting.
Hominy: Hominy offers an earthy, slightly sweet flavor and a chewy texture that transforms the dish from a simple chicken soup into a hearty, rib-sticking meal.
Aromatics and Spices: Sautéed onions and garlic create a savory base, while cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika add warmth and depth to the broth, creating an irresistibly savory aroma that fills the kitchen.
Garnishes: The variety of toppings provides textural contrast and freshness. Crisp cabbage, peppery radishes, and vibrant cilantro balance the richness of the stew, while a squeeze of lime adds a bright, acidic pop.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken and Tomato Pozole
Use Homemade or High-Quality Broth: The broth is the heart of pozole, so using homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth can make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce to the stew. Pozole is highly adaptable to heat preferences.
Don’t Skip the Toppings: The garnishes are not just decorative — they’re essential to the traditional pozole experience. The contrasting textures and flavors elevate the dish.
Simmer for Flavor Development: While this recipe is fairly quick, allowing the stew to simmer for a bit longer, if you have the time, helps deepen the flavors even more. Pozole often tastes even better the next day as the ingredients meld.
Hominy Matters: Always rinse and drain canned hominy before adding it to the stew to remove excess brine and ensure a cleaner taste.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken and Tomato Pozole
Chicken and Tomato Pozole shines as a standalone meal but can be paired with a few accompaniments to create a full spread. Serve it alongside warm corn tortillas or tortilla chips for dipping. A simple side of Mexican rice complements the dish without overpowering it. For beverages, a chilled glass of horchata or a light Mexican beer would enhance the dining experience beautifully.
You can also offer a topping bar when serving pozole at a party, allowing guests to personalize their bowls with their choice of cabbage, radishes, avocado slices, diced onion, fresh jalapeños, and plenty of lime wedges.
How to Store and Reheat Pozole
Pozole stores exceptionally well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Once cooled, store the pozole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat until hot throughout. If the stew thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up when reheating.
Pozole also freezes beautifully. Freeze in individual portions for easy future meals. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations of Chicken Pozole
One of the beautiful aspects of pozole is its flexibility. Here are a few variations to try:
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Green Pozole (Pozole Verde): Blend tomatillos, green chiles, and fresh herbs into the broth for a verdant, tangy version.
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Spicy Pozole Rojo: Add a blend of rehydrated dried chilies like guajillo or ancho to deepen the color and add a smoky heat.
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Vegetarian Pozole: Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or jackfruit for a satisfying vegetarian alternative.
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Pork Pozole: Substitute pork shoulder for the chicken for a richer, traditional twist.
Conclusion
Chicken and Tomato Pozole is a heartwarming, richly flavored stew that brings together the comforting elements of chicken soup with the festive spirit of traditional Mexican pozole. Its smoky, savory broth, tender chicken, and chewy hominy create a complete and deeply satisfying meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent. With its customizable toppings and adaptability, this pozole is not just a dish but an experience — one that connects you to the deep-rooted traditions of Mexican cuisine while fitting perfectly into the modern cook’s busy lifestyle.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, a dish to impress guests, or a way to explore international flavors at home, Chicken and Tomato Pozole promises to be a recipe you’ll return to again and again.