Chicken Tinga Tacos
Tacos de Tinga de Pollo
Authentic Mexican chicken tinga tacos simmered in a smoky chipotle-tomato sauce with La Costeña chipotles.
There’s something deeply comforting about the aroma of tinga de pollo gently bubbling on the stove—the smoky heat of chipotle, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the savory richness of shredded chicken coming together like a memory of home. This authentic Mexican recipe hails from Puebla, where humble ingredients transform into something unforgettable. Wrapped in warm tortillas and topped with crema and fresh garnishes, these tacos are a celebration of bold, soulful flavor.
Let’s walk through how to make chicken tinga tacos that feel like they came straight from a Mexican cocina, using the deep, smoky character of La Costeña chipotles en adobo.
Servings
4
Difficulty Level
Easy
Best for:
Brunch/Lunch/Dinner/ Watch Party
Ingredients:
-
Chicken Tinga
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works beautifully)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 white onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes)
- 2–3 La Costeña Chipotle Peppers in Adobo, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
For Serving
- 8–10 corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup crema (Mexican-style cream)
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Shredded lettuce or cabbage
- Lime wedges
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Directions
Chicken Tinga
Step 1: Build the Flavor Base
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until soft and slightly golden, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Create the Chipotle Sauce
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they begin to break down and release their juices. Stir in the La Costeña chipotles en adobo, letting their smoky aroma bloom into the sauce. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Simmer the Tinga
Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat in the sauce. Reduce heat and let everything simmer for 10–12 minutes, until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld into a rich, smoky tinga.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
Heat your tortillas on a comal or dry skillet until soft and pliable. This step brings out their toasty corn flavor and prevents cracking.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Spoon a generous portion of tinga de pollo onto each tortilla. Top with crema, queso fresco, avocado slices, and a handful of shredded lettuce.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and serve immediately. Each bite should be smoky, creamy, bright, and deeply satisfying.
-
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~420 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbs: 38 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
Additional Notes
Pro Tip
For an even deeper flavor, blend the tomatoes with the La Costeña chipotles en adobo before adding them to the pan—this creates a silky, restaurant-style tinga sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.
A Taste of Puebla at Home
Tinga de pollo is more than just a filling—it’s a story of resourceful cooking and bold Mexican flavors. Whether you’re making these tacos for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, they invite everyone to slow down, savor, and connect over something delicious.
For more authentic Mexican recipes and creative ways to cook with La Costeña ingredients, explore more at mexicorico.com—your kitchen deserves it.
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