Name: Chicken Pozole Verde Soup (Mexican Green Pozole) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, peeled and chopped; 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded, deveined and chopped; 2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1 pound tomatillos, husked, rinsed and quartered; 8 cups chicken broth, divided; 1 small bunch fresh cilantro, leaves and tender stems; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breast; 2 (15-ounce) cans hominy, drained and rinsed; 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon (optional, adjust to taste); Ground black pepper to taste; Thinly sliced radishes; Sliced avocado; Sliced jalapeños; Lime wedges; Fresh cilantro leaves; Shredded cabbage; Tortilla chips

If you’ve ever craved a comforting soup that’s bursting with fresh, zesty flavors, then you’re going to adore this Chicken Pozole Verde Soup (Mexican Green Pozole) Recipe. This vibrant green pozole captures the heart of traditional Mexican cooking with tender chicken, bright tomatillos, and a blend of spices that warm your soul. It’s hearty yet fresh, perfect for sharing around the table on any day you want a bowl of pure happiness in a spoon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two sets of ingredients on a white marbled surface. On the left side, there is a white bowl filled with small white beans at the top left and a white bowl with pink raw chicken pieces at the top right. Below them, a large pot with red handles is filled with a green sauce. To the left of the pot is a halved lime and to the right is a small bowl of black pepper. Below the pot is a small bowl with mixed green and brown spices, and next to it is a glass measuring cup with orange liquid. On the right side, at the top is a bunch of fresh green herbs, and beside it a glass jug with orange liquid. Below are two dark green peppers next to a white bowl filled with halved green tomatillos. To the right of the tomatillos is a small bowl of chopped white onions, and below that is a small white bowl of orange liquid and a single green chili pepper. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Chicken Pozole Verde Soup (Mexican Green Pozole) Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that work in harmony to create its signature rich taste and stunning green color. Each component brings something special, from the smoky poblano peppers to the tangy tomatillos and fragrant cilantro, making the final bowl unforgettable.

2 tablespoons olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing and adding a smooth richness to the soup.
1 large onion (peeled and chopped): Adds a sweet, aromatic depth to the broth.
1 jalapeño pepper (seeded, deveined and chopped): Gives a gentle kick without overpowering the freshness.
2 poblano peppers (seeded and chopped): Provide a mild smoky flavor that defines the pozole verde.
6 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the soup with a warm, savory undertone.
1 pound tomatillos (husked, rinsed and quartered): The star ingredient for that iconic tangy green flavor.
8 cups chicken broth (divided): Builds a comforting, savory base for the soup.
1 small bunch fresh cilantro (leaves and tender stems): Adds freshness and vibrant herbaceous notes.
2 teaspoons dried oregano: Brings earthy, slightly minty undertones that complement the spice.
2 teaspoons ground cumin: Adds warm, smoky spice that ties all the flavors together.
1 teaspoon ground coriander: Offers citrusy, nutty layers to the broth.
1 bay leaf: Enhances the aroma and depth of the broth.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances every flavor in the pot.
2 pounds boneless and skinless chicken thighs or breast: Tender, juicy protein that soaks up all the delicious broth.
2 (15-ounces) cans hominy, drained and rinsed: Adds a delightful chewy texture and subtle sweetness.
1 teaspoon chicken bouillon (optional): A little boost of savory richness if you feel the soup needs it.
Ground black pepper to taste: For that final seasoning touch to wake up your taste buds.
Thinly sliced radishes, sliced avocado, sliced jalapeños, lime wedges, fresh cilantro, shredded cabbage, tortilla chips: Classic garnishes that take each bite to a new level.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Chicken Pozole Verde Soup (Mexican Green Pozole) Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Peppers

Begin by heating the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Toss in the chopped onions, jalapeños, and poblano peppers, stirring them often for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want the onions to start turning translucent, releasing their sweetness. Then, add the minced garlic and tomatillos, continuing to sauté for another 4 to 5 minutes until the peppers soften beautifully. This step develops the backbone of flavor, prepping your ingredients for the next stage.

Step 2: Blend to Create the Green Base

Transfer this fragrant mixture into a blender, adding about a cup of chicken broth and the fresh cilantro. Blend everything until it’s completely smooth, capturing that lovely green hue and fresh zest. If the mixture feels too thick, feel free to add a little more broth to help it blend easily. This pureed blend is what gives the Chicken Pozole Verde Soup (Mexican Green Pozole) Recipe its signature vibrant color and fresh flavor.

Step 3: Season and Simmer

Pour the blended green sauce back into your pot, then add the remaining 7 cups of chicken broth. Stir in the dried oregano, ground cumin, ground coriander, bay leaf, and salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Add in the chicken pieces, reduce the heat to low, and let everything simmer partially covered for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is perfectly tender. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to soak up that delicious broth.

Step 4: Shred Chicken and Add Hominy

Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, then stir in the rinsed hominy. Let the soup cook uncovered for another 10 minutes over medium heat. Give it a taste and add chicken bouillon if you feel it needs a little extra depth. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper according to your preference.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Now comes the fun part—scooping the soup into bowls and piling on your favorite garnishes. The toppings bring texture, crunch, and a fresh pop of flavor that makes each bite truly special.

How to Serve Chicken Pozole Verde Soup (Mexican Green Pozole) Recipe

Garnishes

The beauty of this Chicken Pozole Verde Soup (Mexican Green Pozole) Recipe is how customizable it is. Popular garnishes include thinly sliced radishes for crispness, creamy avocado slices to mellow the spice, a squeeze of fresh lime for tang, and shredded cabbage for extra crunch. Don’t forget fresh cilantro for brightness and jalapeños if you crave a little extra heat. Tortilla chips add delightful crunch and make this bowl irresistibly fun to eat.

Side Dishes

This soup shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with classic Mexican sides like warm corn tortillas or a simple side of Mexican rice. A light salad with citrus vinaigrette balances the hearty soup perfectly. For a cozy meal, some refried beans are a great option to soup up your dinner accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve your Chicken Pozole Verde Soup family-style in a beautiful, large clay pot with all the toppings in colorful bowls so everyone can customize their servings. You can also ladle the soup into individual rustic mugs for a cozy presentation, great for a casual gathering or lunch party. Adding a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco on top offers a lovely finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chicken Pozole Verde Soup keeps very well in the fridge. Transfer your leftovers into an airtight container and store for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making reheated portions even tastier.

Freezing

This pozole freezes beautifully. Cool the soup completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some headspace, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure everything warms evenly without drying out. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first for best results. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup seems too thick.

FAQs

What makes Chicken Pozole Verde Soup different from red pozole?

Chicken Pozole Verde Soup uses tomatillos, cilantro, and green chilies, giving it a bright, tangy flavor and green color, whereas red pozole typically uses dried red chilies for a smoky, spicier taste with reddish hues.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works perfectly, especially if you prefer leaner meat, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender during simmering.

Is hominy necessary in Chicken Pozole Verde Soup?

Yes, hominy is traditional and key to pozole’s unique texture and flavor. It adds a subtle sweetness and satisfying chew that complements the tender chicken beautifully.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Definitely! Adjust the number of jalapeños or add the seeds back in if you want more heat. Garnishing with extra sliced jalapeño or hot sauce also amps up the spice level easily.

How long does it take to make this soup from start to finish?

You’ll spend about 1 hour and 10 minutes from chopping to serving, including simmering time, making it a feasible dish even on a busy weekend.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Pozole Verde Soup (Mexican Green Pozole) Recipe is truly one of those dishes that makes you feel at home with every spoonful. Its wonderful combination of fresh, tangy, and hearty flavors invites you to slow down and savor something uniquely comforting. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive gathering, this soup is sure to be a hit. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved staple in your kitchen, just like I have!

Chicken Pozole Verde Soup (Mexican Green Pozole) Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need