There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s made in a slow cooker. Cozy Spoonfuls Slow Cooker Chicken Posole is a perfect meal for families, friends, or even a quiet night in. This traditional Mexican soup is full of flavor, hearty ingredients, and warmth, making it a go-to recipe for home cooks looking for something easy yet delicious. The ingredients come together effortlessly, allowing you to set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Cozy Spoonfuls Slow Cooker Chicken Posole offers several advantages. First, it’s a one-pot meal, which means there’s less cleanup afterwards. Second, the slow cooking process allows the flavors of the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Plus, it’s highly nutritious, packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the hominy. Finally, this posole is very customizable; you can easily adjust the spice level, add toppings, or alter the ingredients based on what’s available in your kitchen. It’s perfect for busy families, gatherings, or as a comforting meal on a chilly day.

How to Make Cozy Spoonfuls Slow Cooker Chicken Posole

Creating this delightful Chicken Posole is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Here’s a detailed look at how to bring this comforting dish to life.

Ingredients:

4 bone-in skinless chicken thighs
4 cups chicken stock
1 (25-ounce) can white hominy, drained
2 (4-ounce) cans diced green chiles
1 sweet onion, diced
1 poblano pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 medium tomatillos, diced
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice

For Serving:

Shredded cabbage
Sliced radish
Crumbled queso fresco
Tortilla chips
Lime wedges

Directions:

Place the chicken thighs in a 6-quart slow cooker.
Add the chicken stock, hominy, diced green chiles, diced onion, diced poblano pepper, minced garlic, ground cumin, and dried oregano to the pot.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and let it cool slightly. Discard the bones and shred or dice the chicken meat.
Stir the chicken back into the slow cooker along with the diced tomatillos, chopped cilantro, and freshly squeezed lime juice.
Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with shredded cabbage, sliced radish, crumbled queso fresco, tortilla chips, and lime wedges.

How to Serve Cozy Spoonfuls Slow Cooker Chicken Posole

Serving your Chicken Posole can be a fun part of the meal. Use a ladle to dish out the soup into bowls. This recipe is best served hot. As for toppings, you can set up a garnish bar for your guests or family, allowing everyone to customize their bowl. Offer shredded cabbage for crunch, sliced radishes for a peppery bite, crumbled queso fresco for creaminess, and crispy tortilla chips for texture. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds brightness to each serving. Enjoy the communal aspect of serving; it makes the meal feel more special.

How to Store Cozy Spoonfuls Slow Cooker Chicken Posole

If you have leftovers or wish to make this dish ahead of time, storing it is easy. Allow the Chicken Posole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If you’ve made a big batch, you can also freeze portions of the soup. Just be sure to leave some space in the container, as liquids can expand when frozen. Tightly seal and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make Cozy Spoonfuls Slow Cooker Chicken Posole

Use Quality Chicken: Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs are recommended because they stay moist and tender during slow cooking. Consider using organic or free-range chicken for enhanced flavor.
Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, chop your vegetables the night before and store them in the fridge. This will save time in the morning when you’re ready to start cooking.
Adjust the Heat: If you like things spicy, add more diced green chiles or a sliced jalapeño to the pot. You can also serve hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra heat.
Don’t Skip the Lime: The lime juice at the end brightens the flavors, so don’t skip this step. Fresh is best, but you can also use bottled lime juice in a pinch.
Toppings are Key: Don’t overlook the toppings! The shredded cabbage, radish, queso, and tortilla chips offer different textures and flavors that elevate the dish.

Variations

This Chicken Posole recipe can easily adapt to personal tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some variations you can consider:

Vegetarian Posole: Substitute the chicken with mushrooms or large chunks of zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Add more vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, or corn for added flavor and nutrition.
Different Proteins: Instead of chicken, you can use pork shoulder or turkey for a different protein option. Cooking times may need adjustment based on the cut of meat.
Spice it Up: For a bolder dish, incorporate spices like smoked paprika or chili powder. You can also add a few drops of chipotle in adobo sauce for a smoky kick.
Use a Different Hominy: While white hominy is traditional, you could experiment with yellow or blue hominy for a unique twist on the classic.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may become dry if overcooked. If using breasts, consider cooking for a shorter time, about 4 to 6 hours on low.

2. Can I add other vegetables to the posole?

Absolutely! Feel free to include additional vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or corn. Just make sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

3. How spicy is this dish?

The spice level in this Chicken Posole can be adjusted based on the type and amount of green chiles you use. If you prefer a milder dish, opt for mild green chiles and add them according to your taste.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to check that any added ingredients, like tortilla chips, are certified gluten-free.

Cozy Spoonfuls Slow Cooker Chicken Posole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or for a festive gathering, this hearty dish brings people together in warmth and comfort. Enjoy creating this delicious recipe and sharing it with loved ones!