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Chicken Tinga

Chicken Tinga

A flavorful Mexican dish featuring shredded chicken simmered in a smoky chipotle tomato sauce, perfect for tacos or rice bowls.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4 serving
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Large cast iron casserole dish
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Tbsp. oil
  • 1 medium onion peeled and finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic peeled and minced
  • 3 tsp. dried oregano (preferably Mexican oregano)
  • 4 chipotle chilies in adobo sauce finely chopped
  • 400 g chopped tomatoes (14 oz tin)
  • 180 ml chicken stock (3/4 cup)
  • 1 tsp. smoked paprika
  • 2 Tbsp. light brown sugar
  • 2 Tbsp. lime juice (approximately the juice of 1 lime)
  • 750 g chicken thigh fillets (about 6-8 boneless & skinless fillets)
  • Soft corn tortillas
  • Fresh coriander (cilantro)
  • Finely diced onion
  • Mild white crumbly cheese (such as crumbled feta or Cotija)
  • Lime wedges

Instructions
 

  • Heat oil in a large cast iron casserole dish over medium to high heat.
  • Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
  • Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and chopped chipotle chilies. Cook for 1 more minute.
  • Add the chopped tomatoes, chicken stock, smoked paprika, bay leaves, brown sugar, and lime juice. Stir well and bring to a gentle bubble.
  • Reduce heat to medium/low and submerge the chicken thighs in the sauce. Simmer uncovered for 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Remove bay leaves and shred the chicken directly in the pot using two forks.
  • Serve the Chicken Tinga on warm corn tortillas, garnished with fresh coriander, diced onion, and cheese. Lime wedges on the side add a zesty kick.

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Notes

Store leftover Chicken Tinga in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Keyword Chicken