Mexican Chicken Tinga Recipe

This chicken tinga recipe is sure to earn a permanent place in your kitchen! It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers huge favor without a lot of effort. Whether you put it on tostadas, in tacos, or served with Mexican rice and beans, chicken tinga is a practical protein option you can make on Sunday and use in dishes throughout the week. If you’re looking for a reliable Mexican chicken recipe that works for both weeknights and gatherings, chicken tinga is always a safe choice.

What is Chicken Tinga?

Chicken tinga, or tinga de pollo, is a classic Mexican dish made with shredded chicken that is simmered in a tomato, chipotle, and onion sauce. The sauce is simple but flavorful, with a light smokiness thanks to the chipotles and just enough heat to keep things interesting.

Why You’ll Love This Authentic Mexican Chicken Tinga Recipe

• Easy – Chicken tinga is pretty easy to make. Just cook and shred chicken, and combine it with a salsa made in the blender.
• Adaptable – Adjust the spice level to your taste by adding more or less chipotle peppers!
• Versatile – Whether you prefer chicken tinga tostadas, tacos, or served with rice, chicken tinga is incredibly versatile!

Tinga de Pollo Ingredients

• Chicken – Chicken breasts or thighs work well and shred easily once cooked. Want a juicier option? Consider using chicken drumsticks.
• Roma Tomatoes – Roma tomatoes have a balanced tomato flavor, making them perfect to create the base of the sauce.
• White Onion – Add depth to your chicken tinga sauce with white onion.
• Chipotle Peppers – Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are readily available in a can at most grocery stores. Chipotles provide the smoky flavor and heat that this recipe is known for.
• Mexican Oregano – Oregano adds a mild, earthy flavor that complements the tomatoes and chipotle in the sauce.

Recommended Tools for Making Chicken Tinga

• Blender – Blend the tomatoes, chipotles, and spices into a smooth sauce with this common small appliance.
• Large Skillet – Use a large skillet or pot that’s large enough to hold the sauce and chicken once combined to avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Cutting Board – Prep your vegetables quickly with a large cutting board.

Note: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Print Recipe

Mexican Chicken Tinga Recipe

Courses: Entree Recipes

Difficulty: Beginner Cook Time 25 mins Total Time 25 mins

Servings: 6

Chicken Tinga Ingredients

Servings

• 1 lb chicken
• 1 tbsp chicken bouillon
• 4 q water
• 4 Roma tomatoes
• 2 chipotle peppers
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp garlic

How to Make Chicken Tinga

1. Cook the chicken

   In a large pot, bring water and chicken bouillon to a boil. Add chicken, and cook for 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165F. Allow chicken to cool. Shred.

2. Prepare the tinga sauce

   Roast tomatoes and onions for 8-10 minutes. Add to a blender, along with chipotle peppers, salt, and pepper to taste. Blend until smooth.

3. Combine ingredients

   Add the tinga sauce to a large pan, and simmer for 5 minutes. Mix in the shredded chicken.

4. Serve and enjoy!