Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup that has been enjoyed for centuries, with roots tracing back to the Aztecs. This hearty dish is typically made with hominy, meat (usually pork or chicken), and a rich, flavorful broth. While there are many variations—red (rojo), white (blanco), and green (verde)—Pozole Verde stands out for its vibrant, herbaceous flavor from fresh tomatillos, green chiles, and cilantro.
Using a crockpot to make Pozole Verde simplifies the cooking process, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while requiring minimal hands-on effort. This recipe for Crockpot Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even entertaining guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Easy & Hands-Off – Let the slow cooker do the work!
✅ Packed with Flavor – Fresh herbs, tender chicken, and hominy create a rich, satisfying dish.
✅ Healthy & Nutritious – High in protein, fiber, and vitamins.
✅ Great for Crowds – Easily doubled for gatherings.
✅ Customizable – Serve with your favorite toppings for extra texture and flavor.
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Pozole Verde
For the Pozole Verde Base:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, but thighs stay juicier)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 (25 oz) can hominy (white or yellow, drained and rinsed)
- 1 lb tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 2 poblano peppers, roasted, seeded, and chopped
- 2 jalapeños (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bunch cilantro, stems included
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano (Mexican oregano if available)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For Serving (Optional Toppings):
- Shredded cabbage or lettuce
- Sliced radishes
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- Tortilla chips or tostadas
- Sour cream or Mexican crema
- Hot sauce or salsa verde
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Green Sauce (Salsa Verde)
- Roast the Peppers & Tomatillos:
- Preheat the broiler. Place tomatillos, poblano peppers, and jalapeños on a baking sheet.
- Broil for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and softened.
- Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then peel off excess skin from poblanos (don’t worry about removing all of it).
- Blend the Sauce:
- In a blender, combine roasted tomatillos, poblanos, jalapeños, onion, garlic, cilantro, cumin, oregano, and a pinch of salt.
- Blend until smooth. If needed, add a splash of chicken broth to help blend.
Step 2: Assemble in the Crockpot
- Add Chicken & Hominy:
- Place chicken thighs at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Pour the blended green sauce over the chicken.
- Add drained hominy, bay leaf, and chicken broth.
- Cook on Low:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until chicken is tender.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken & Adjust Seasoning
- Remove Chicken:
- Once cooked, take out the chicken and shred it using two forks.
- Return shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir.
- Season to Taste:
- Discard the bay leaf.
- Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Ladle the pozole into bowls and let everyone customize with their favorite toppings.
- Serve with warm tortillas or crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for the Best Pozole Verde
🔹 For Extra Flavor: Sear the chicken thighs in a pan before adding to the crockpot.
🔹 Short on Time? Use store-bought salsa verde (about 2 cups) instead of making your own.
🔹 Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for mushrooms or extra hominy, and use vegetable broth.
🔹 Make It Spicier: Add a serrano pepper to the salsa verde blend.
🔹 Meal Prep Friendly: Pozole tastes even better the next day! Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Mexican Chicken Pozole Verde is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings the authentic taste of Mexico to your kitchen with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, hominy, and zesty green sauce makes it a standout meal that’s both nourishing and delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this pozole is sure to impress!