Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
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- Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Boneless, skinless pieces work best for shredding.
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- Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and flavor during cooking.
Seasoning Blend:
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- 1 tablespoon chili powder
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- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
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- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
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- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
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- Salt and pepper, to taste
Additional Ingredients:
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- 1 small onion, diced
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- 2 cloves garlic, minced
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- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
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- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced (optional for smoky heat)
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- Juice of 1 lime
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- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
How to Make Mexican Pulled Chicken
Follow these simple steps to create tender and flavorful pulled chicken:
Step 1: Season the Chicken
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- Combine all the spices (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper) in a small bowl.
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- Rub the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken breasts or thighs.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
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- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
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- Add the chicken and sear on both sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step locks in the flavor.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
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- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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- In the same skillet, sauté the onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
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- Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
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- Stir in the diced tomatoes and chipotle pepper (if using). Bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Chicken
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- Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce.
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- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is partially submerged.
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- Cover and let simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
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- Remove the chicken from the skillet and use two forks to shred it.
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- Return the shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce.
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- Add lime juice and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Mexican Pulled Chicken immediately in tacos, over rice, or alongside fresh tortillas.
Nutrition
- Calories: 285