Authentic Chicken Tinga is a flavorful Mexican dish made with tender shredded chicken simmered in a smoky, spicy tomato and chipotle sauce. This traditional dish hails from the state of Puebla and is known for its bold flavors and delicious simplicity. The chicken absorbs the rich, tangy sauce, making it perfect for serving in tacos, tostadas, or even over rice. With its smoky chipotle peppers and a touch of sweetness from caramelized onions, Chicken Tinga is an easy yet authentic way to bring the taste of Mexico to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortillas or tostadas, for serving
Instructions:
- Cook the chicken: Place the chicken in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and set aside.
- Sauté the onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until softened and caramelized. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: In a blender, combine the diced tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and chicken broth. Blend until smooth.
- Simmer the tinga: Pour the tomato-chipotle sauce into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir in the oregano, cumin, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add the shredded chicken: Stir the shredded chicken into the sauce, making sure it’s fully coated. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf and serve the Chicken Tinga hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Serve in tacos, tostadas, or with rice, and top with your favorite garnishes like avocado, cheese, or sour cream.
This Authentic Chicken Tinga is a smoky, savory dish that’s perfect for taco night or as a filling for various Mexican dishes, offering an irresistible combination of rich, spicy, and tangy flavors!
