Chicken Tinga

Chicken Tinga

Chicken Tinga is a traditional Mexican dish that combines tender shredded chicken with a flavorful chipotle sauce. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy version of a beloved classic. Not only is Chicken Tinga delicious, but it’s also flexible. You can enjoy it in various ways—like in tacos, burritos, or over a salad.

This recipe packs a punch in flavor while remaining healthy. Made primarily with lean chicken breast and fresh ingredients, it’s a high-protein meal that supports your weight loss goals. This dish is also low in calories, making it suitable for those who are watching their intake. So, whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or a meal prep for the week ahead, Chicken Tinga will meet your needs.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You’ll love this Chicken Tinga recipe because it’s a great option for quick meal prep. With simple cooking steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip this up in under an hour. The meal is a lighter option compared to heavier Mexican dishes, making it perfect for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. The high protein content helps keep you full and satisfied, which is great for weight loss. Plus, it can be made diabetic-friendly by adjusting the portion of carbohydrates like tortillas or serving alongside more vegetables.

HOW TO MAKE Chicken Tinga

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Medium-sized saucepan
• Medium-sized skillet
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking utensils

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 large russet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup (100 grams) Mexican chorizo
• 1/2 onion, sliced
• 8 oz chicken breast (about 2 breasts, rotisserie chicken preferable), cooked and shredded
• 1 cup low sodium chicken stock
• 2 roma tomatoes, chopped
• 1 chile chipotle, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 tostadas, bolillo bread, or corn tortillas for serving

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a small saucepan, add the potatoes and enough water to cover them. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. While the potatoes are cooking, start cooking the chorizo in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
3. When the chorizo is cooked halfway, add the sliced onions. Cook until soft, about 4 minutes.
4. Add the shredded chicken, chicken stock, chopped tomatoes, chile chipotle, kosher salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well and cover.
5. Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Once done, add the cooked potatoes and gently mix all the ingredients together. Be careful not to mash the potatoes.
7. Remove the skillet from heat and serve hot. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
8. Serve your Chicken Tinga in burritos, on tortas, tostadas, or corn tortillas for tacos. Top with options like avocado, radishes, lettuce, Mexican crema, queso fresco, or hot sauce, for added flavor and texture.

this Recipe

HOW TO SERVE Chicken Tinga

For a healthy serving, aim to fill your plate with lean protein and plenty of vegetables. If you’re serving this dish in tacos, limit the number of tortillas used for portion control. Instead, bulk up on toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado which are heart-healthy and add great nutritional value. Pair it with a side of fresh salsa or a simple green salad to keep your meal balanced.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Chicken Tinga

Chicken Tinga stores wonderfully. To store, let the dish cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and it will last up to 3 months. Simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The best method to reheat is to do so on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to maintain moisture.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

To make your Chicken Tinga meal even more balanced, consider serving it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a simple quinoa salad. These sides are nutritious and will enhance the overall meal experience. For a lighter option, a refreshing cucumber salad can complement the spiciness of the Chicken Tinga perfectly.

VARIATIONS

• Healthier Version: Replace chorizo with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier take. This will reduce the overall fat content while keeping the flavor intact.

• High-Protein or Low-Carb Version: Serve Chicken Tinga over a bed of leafy greens instead of tortillas for a low-carb option. This adds more fiber and helps keep calories in check.

• Air Fryer Version: For a quick and crispy option, make chicken cutlets using the Chicken Tinga mixture, bread them lightly and place them in the air fryer at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

FAQs

Is Chicken Tinga healthy?

Absolutely! Chicken Tinga is a great source of lean protein, low in calories, and packed with flavor. It’s also diabetic-friendly when served with low-carb or vegetable-centric sides.

How do I store leftover Chicken Tinga?

Store your Chicken Tinga in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Always let it cool before refrigerating or freezing.

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can use turkey or even plant-based proteins like shredded jackfruit or tofu for a vegetarian version, keeping the spices the same for that authentic Chicken Tinga flavor.

How can I make this a heart-healthy meal?

Focus on lean chicken breasts, use low-sodium chicken stock, and increase the vegetable portion to enhance the fiber. Opt for whole-grain tortillas or skip the carbs altogether for a lower-calorie dish.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Chicken Tinga

One of the great things about Chicken Tinga is how well it lends itself to meal prep. You can prepare a large batch over the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week. Store individual portions in meal prep containers, and you’ll have a high-protein meal ready to go for lunch or dinner. Pair it with various toppings and sides to keep your meals exciting and nutritious all week long.

In conclusion, Chicken Tinga is a versatile and healthy recipe that anyone can enjoy. With its satisfying flavor and protein-packed ingredients, it’s not just a meal; it’s a delicious step towards healthier eating. Whether you’re on a weight loss journey or simply looking for a great way to enjoy quality food, this recipe is sure to meet your needs!

Chicken Tinga

A traditional Mexican dish featuring tender shredded chicken in a flavorful chipotle sauce, perfect for tacos or salads.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 large russet potato, peeled and cubed
• 0.25 cup Mexican chorizo (about 100 grams)
• 0.5 cup onion, sliced
• 8 oz chicken breast, cooked and shredded (about 2 breasts, rotisserie chicken preferable)
• 1 cup low sodium chicken stock
• 2 medium roma tomatoes, chopped
• 1 each chile chipotle, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 each tostadas, bolillo bread, or corn tortillas for serving

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a small saucepan, add the potatoes and enough water to cover them. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. While the potatoes are cooking, start cooking the chorizo in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
3. When the chorizo is cooked halfway, add the sliced onions and cook until soft, about 4 minutes.
4. Add the shredded chicken, chicken stock, chopped tomatoes, chile chipotle, kosher salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well and cover.

Cooking

1. Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Once done, add the cooked potatoes and gently mix all the ingredients together, being careful not to mash the potatoes.
3. Remove the skillet from heat and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve your Chicken Tinga in burritos, on tortas, tostadas, or corn tortillas for tacos. Add toppings like avocado, radishes, lettuce, Mexican crema, queso fresco, or hot sauce.

Notes

Chicken Tinga stores wonderfully in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge or can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.