Chicken Tinga Recipe (Authentic Mexican Style)
Chicken Tinga is a smoky, spicy Mexican shredded chicken cooked in a tomato-chipotle sauce. Perfect for tacos, tostadas, burritos, and meal prep.
Introduction
Chicken Tinga is a classic Mexican shredded chicken dish known for its rich, smoky flavor and comforting spice. Made with tender shredded chicken simmered in a tomato and chipotle pepper sauce, this versatile recipe is perfect for tacos, tostadas, burritos, quesadillas, or rice bowls. Easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors, Chicken Tinga is a must-try recipe for Mexican food lovers.
Ingredients
- 500 g (1 lb) boneless chicken breast or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
- 2–3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the can)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth
Instructions
-
Cook the Chicken
Boil chicken in lightly salted water for 15–18 minutes until fully cooked. Remove, let cool slightly, then shred. -
Prepare the Sauce
Blend tomatoes, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth. -
Cook the Base
Heat olive oil in a pan. Sauté onions until soft and lightly caramelized. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. -
Simmer the Tinga
Pour in the blended sauce and chicken broth. Simmer for 5 minutes, then add shredded chicken. -
Finish Cooking
Cook on low heat for 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken well.
Serving Suggestions
- Chicken Tinga tacos with corn tortillas
- Tostadas topped with lettuce and crema
- Burritos or quesadillas
- Rice bowls with avocado and beans
- Nachos or enchiladas
Tips for Best Flavor
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness
- Adjust chipotle peppers for heat level
- Let the dish rest 5 minutes before serving for deeper flavor
FAQs
Is Chicken Tinga spicy?
It’s mildly spicy, but you can control heat by adjusting chipotle peppers.
Can I make Chicken Tinga ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day and stores well for meal prep.
Can I freeze Chicken Tinga?
Absolutely. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Is Chicken Tinga healthy?
Yes—high in protein and can be made low-fat by using chicken breast.
Similar Recipes You May Like
- Beef Birria Tacos
- Chicken Enchiladas Rojas
- Mexican Shredded Chicken
- Chipotle Chicken Tacos
- Chicken Fajitas
Final Thoughts
Chicken Tinga is a flavor-packed, easy Mexican recipe that works for quick dinners, parties, and weekly meal prep. Its smoky tomato-chipotle sauce makes it one of the most versatile shredded chicken recipes you can add to your collection.


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