Chicken Tinga is a traditional Mexican dish that showcases tender chicken in a smoky, spicy chipotle sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, offering a burst of flavor that will please any crowd. Serve it in tacos, over rice, or with your favorite sides for a delicious and satisfying meal. Let’s dive into the details of this delectable dish!
Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 tsp oregano
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
– Tortillas for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (based on 1 person):
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 3g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, add the chicken breast and cover with water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken and let it cool, then shred it with two forks.
4. In the same pot, sauté the sliced onion until translucent.
5. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
6. Blend the diced tomatoes and chipotle peppers until smooth.
7. Pour the tomato mixture into the pot with the onions.
8. Stir in the shredded chicken, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
9. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
10. Serve with tortillas and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation. Additionally, if you prefer a milder flavor, use fewer chipotle peppers or substitute with bell peppers for a sweeter taste.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken Tinga pairs wonderfully with warm corn tortillas, avocado slices, and fresh lime. It can also be served over rice or alongside beans for a more filling meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Chicken Tinga can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much or too little chipotle can affect the spice level.
- Not shredding the chicken finely enough may result in large chunks.
- Overcooking can dry out the chicken; keep an eye on it.
- Forgetting to season the sauce can lead to bland flavors.
- Not allowing the mixture to simmer long enough can prevent flavor development.
Helpful Tips
- Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
- Adjust spices according to your taste preference.
- Serve with a side of pickled onions for added zest.
- Try adding black beans for extra protein and fiber.
FAQs
What is Chicken Tinga?
Chicken Tinga is a Mexican dish made with shredded chicken cooked in a smoky, spicy sauce made from tomatoes and chipotle peppers. It’s versatile and can be served in various ways.
Can I make Chicken Tinga ahead of time?
Yes, Chicken Tinga can be prepared a day in advance. Just refrigerate it and reheat before serving. The flavors will deepen overnight.
Is Chicken Tinga spicy?
The spice level of Chicken Tinga can vary based on the amount of chipotle peppers used. You can adjust the heat by using fewer peppers or removing the seeds.
What can I serve with Chicken Tinga?
Chicken Tinga is great in tacos, over rice, or with sides like beans, guacamole, or a fresh salad.
Can I freeze Chicken Tinga?
Absolutely! Chicken Tinga freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Chicken Tinga is a delightful dish that brings bold Mexican flavors to your table. With its tender chicken and rich sauce, it’s perfect for casual family dinners or festive gatherings. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and make it a meal to remember!
Chicken Tinga Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast boneless and skinless
- 1 onion sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Tortillas for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, add the chicken breast and cover with water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and let it cool, then shred it with two forks.
- In the same pot, sauté the sliced onion until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Blend the diced tomatoes and chipotle peppers until smooth.
- Pour the tomato mixture into the pot with the onions.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve with tortillas and garnish with fresh cilantro.
