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Mexican Pulled Chicken

Mexican Pulled Chicken: 5 Steps to Flavorful Perfection


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  • Author: Manar Jota
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

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

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat; add olive oil.
  2. Sauté chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  4. Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cinnamon, and cayenne; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth; add lime juice and tomato sauce, stirring to combine.
  6. Add chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged.
  7. Cover and simmer on low for 20-25 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F.
  8. Remove chicken; shred with forks and return it to the skillet, mixing with sauce.
  9. 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