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Chicken Tinga: Smoky Chipotle Shredded Chicken in Tomato Sauce Recipe

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4 from 65 reviews

Smoky and spicy shredded chicken simmered in a rich tomato-chipotle sauce, Chicken Tinga is a classic Mexican dish perfect for tacos, tostadas, or bowls. Its bold flavors and tender texture make it a versatile and satisfying meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Chicken & Vegetables

  • 2 lb cooked shredded chicken (or poached breasts)
  • ½ onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce & Seasonings

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo + 1 tbsp adobo sauce
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sauce: Blend the crushed tomatoes, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper in a blender until smooth, creating a smoky and spicy base for the dish.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Simmer the Sauce: Pour the blended tomato-chipotle sauce mixture into the skillet with the sautéed aromatics. Allow it to simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
  4. Add Chicken: Stir the shredded cooked chicken into the sauce, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the smoky, spicy flavors.
  5. Serve: Remove from heat and serve warm with tortillas, rice, or wrapped in lettuce for a lighter option.

Notes

  • Adjust the spiciness by using 1 chipotle pepper if you prefer a milder dish.
  • Chicken Tinga can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months, making it great for meal prep.
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner / Main
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Gluten Free