Description
Flavor-Packed Mexican Pulled Chicken for Easy Weeknight Meals
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs Chicken Breasts (Substitution: Chicken thighs can be used for added moisture and flavor.)
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Substitution: Any neutral oil can be used.)
- 1 medium Onion (Note: Yellow or white onion works best.)
- 3 cloves Garlic (Note: Fresh garlic is preferred for best flavor.)
- 2 tsp Ground Cumin (Substitution: Ground coriander can also work for a different flavor.)
- 2 tbsp Chili Powder (Note: Adjust the amount to control spice level.)
- 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika (Substitution: Regular paprika is an alternative, though less smoky.)
- 1 tsp Oregano (Note: Mexican oregano can enhance the dish further.)
- 1/2 tsp Ground Cinnamon (Note: Optional but recommended for added richness.)
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (Note: Can be omitted for milder chicken.)
- 1 cup Chicken Broth (Substitution: Vegetable broth for a vegan option.)
- 2 tbsp Lime Juice (Note: Fresh is preferred over bottled for taste.)
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce (Substitution: Diced tomatoes can also be used.)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat; add olive oil.
- Sauté chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cinnamon, and cayenne; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth; add lime juice and tomato sauce, stirring to combine.
- Add chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged.
- Cover and simmer on low for 20-25 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F.
- Remove chicken; shred with forks and return it to the skillet, mixing with sauce.
- Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to absorb flavor; adjust seasoning if necessary.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg