Colorful Comfort in a Bowl (Chicken Chile Verde Stew)

Ah, Chicken Chile Verde Stew! This mouthwatering delight is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, bursting with rich, smoky flavors and a delightful tang from tomatillos and poblano peppers. Imagine tender, shredded rotisserie chicken swimming in a vibrant, green sauce that dances on your palate. Whether you’re cozying up on a weeknight or impressing guests, this stew is your ultimate companion, offering simplicity with a punch of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Chile Verde Stew is everything you didn’t know you needed for an easy, satisfying meal.
– Big, Bold Flavors: Each spoonful bursts with the earthy notes of roasted peppers and the zesty brightness of tomatillos.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s a dish that everyone can enjoy!
– Flexible & Fast: With rotisserie chicken and a slow cooker, dinner is ready before you know it!
– Make-Ahead Magic: Whip it up ahead of time and let the flavors meld together for a delicious, hearty meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather around, food lovers! This recipe doesn’t just taste fantastic—it’s filled with fresh ingredients that bring the fiesta right into your kitchen. The star players here are the zesty tomatillos and smoky poblano peppers, which will elevate your stew to gourmet levels!

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:
– 4 poblano peppers
– 10 tomatillos (papery husks removed)
– 4 cloves garlic
– 1 jalapeno pepper
– 1.5 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
– 2 tsp kosher salt
– 2 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1.5 lb whole rotisserie chicken (shredded)
– 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans (drained, but not rinsed)
– 1 cup cilantro
– Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for serving)

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

The beauty of this Chicken Chile Verde Stew is its versatility! Feel free to explore these delightful variations to personalize your dish:
– Go Gluten-Free: Rest assured, this stew is naturally gluten-free!
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some black beans or chickpeas for an added protein punch.
– Make it Spicier: Increase the heat with more jalapenos or add a dash of hot sauce!
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different herbs—fresh oregano or a squeeze of lime can add a refreshing twist.
– Cheese it Up: Top with your favorite cheese like queso fresco or pepper jack for an extra creamy finish.

How to Make Chicken Chile Verde Stew

Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Here’s how to create this sizzling stew step-by-step:

Step 1: Prep the Oven

Set your oven to broil. This is where the magic begins!

Step 2: Roast the Veggies

Arrange the tomatillos, poblano peppers, jalapeno, and unpeeled garlic cloves onto a sheet pan. Broil them on the top rack, turning occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes until they’re beautifully charred with blackened spots.

Step 3: Cool and Peel

Once they’re roasted to perfection, remove the garlic first (as it cooks faster), then transfer the remaining veggies into a sealable ziplock bag. Let them cool while you peel the roasted garlic cloves and set them aside.

Step 4: Blend the Green Goodness

After the peppers have cooled, peel off their skins and remove the seeds, then dice them up. In a blender, combine the diced peppers, tomatillos, garlic cloves, chicken broth, half a cup of cilantro, salt, cumin, and onion powder. Blend until you achieve a smooth, vibrant sauce (you should have about 4 cups).

Step 5: Slow Cook the Stew

Pour the blended mixture into a slow cooker, then add the shredded rotisserie chicken and drained cannellini beans. Cook on low for several hours, letting those flavors meld together like a cozy family reunion!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

When it’s time to eat, serve your Chicken Chile Verde Stew topped with extra cilantro and a sprinkle of cheese if you’d like. Dive in and enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Chile Verde Stew

– Roast for Flavor: Don’t rush the roasting process—those charred bits add depth and complexity to your stew!
– Texture Matters: For a thicker stew, use less broth; for a lighter texture, add more!
– Herb it Up: Fresh herbs really shine here; feel free to add extra cilantro for freshness.
– Taste Test: Always taste your sauce before adding it to the slow cooker to adjust seasonings to your liking!

How to Serve Chicken Chile Verde Stew

Garnishes

Elevate the presentation with beautiful garnishes like fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or a dollop of sour cream for that creamy finish.

Side Dishes

Pair this stew with warm corn tortillas, a side of rice, or even a zesty Mexican salad for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual bowls for a cozy family dinner, or ladle it into a large serving bowl for a festive gathering. You can even offer toppings buffet-style, allowing guests to customize their bowls!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Chile Verde Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this stew! Just make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick. It’s so delicious you might find yourself sneaking spoonfuls while it warms!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of chicken? Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use cooked chicken breast or thighs instead of rotisserie chicken.

Is this recipe spicy? It has a mild kick from the jalapeno, but you can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less according to your heat preference.

How do I make this gluten-free? This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your chicken broth to ensure it’s gluten-free.

Can I prepare this in advance? Yes! You can prep the ingredients a day ahead and store them separately until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, my friends—Chicken Chile Verde Stew that’s not just a meal but an experience! This hearty dish is perfect for cozy nights or any occasion that calls for warmth and comfort. I encourage you to give it a try and savor every bite! With its bold flavors and easy preparation, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Happy cooking!