Looking for a bold, savory, and comforting dish that’s full of heat, tang, and slow-cooked depth? Hatch Chicken Chile Verde is your answer. This iconic New Mexico-inspired stew layers tender chicken in a vibrant green chile-tomatillo sauce, all simmered to perfection. Whether you’re a spice lover or a fan of rich, homemade comfort food, this one-pot meal hits all the right notes.
Hatch chiles are the crown jewel of this dish—famous for their smoky heat and grown exclusively in Hatch, New Mexico. When paired with slow-simmered chicken and tangy tomatillos, you get a dish that’s hearty, versatile, and incredibly satisfying.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Chocolate Chip Sourdough Bread for a bold, sweet twist to pair with your spicy main.
Ingredients List

Gathering the right components is key to unlocking the full potential of this dish. Quality ingredients truly make a difference.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts for a leaner option)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin for richer flavor)
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (freshly minced is best)
- 2 lbs fresh Hatch green chiles, roasted, peeled, and chopped (canned can substitute, but fresh is superior)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained (fire-roasted for extra depth)
- 1 tsp ground cumin (freshly ground for aroma)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano (Mexican oregano for authenticity)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Juice of 1 lime (freshly squeezed for zing)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (for extra heat)
- Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream (for a richer, creamier sauce)
For substitutions, consider turkey for chicken, or bell peppers if chiles are unavailable. The essence lies in the vibrant green chile flavor.
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Hatch Chicken Chile Verde
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Hatch Chicken Chile Verde is a bold and tangy Southwestern classic featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich, roasted Hatch chile and tomatillo sauce. Packed with flavor, this one-pot comfort dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or next-day tacos.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups roasted Hatch chiles, peeled and chopped (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup tomatillos, husked and chopped (or tomatillo salsa)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté diced onion for 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Build the Sauce: Stir in chopped Hatch chiles, tomatillos, cumin, oregano, and broth. Simmer for 5–10 minutes, then blend with an immersion blender or leave chunky based on texture preference.
- Simmer the Chicken: Return chicken to the pot, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until tender. Add lime juice and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Shred and Serve: Remove chicken, shred with forks, and return to the sauce. Serve with rice, tortillas, or over roasted veggies. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Notes
Use mild or hot Hatch chiles depending on your heat preference. Tomatillo salsa can be used as a shortcut. For a smoother sauce, blend before returning the chicken. This dish also freezes well for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Timing
This Hatch Chicken Chile Verde recipe offers a rewarding culinary experience without consuming your entire day. We’ve optimized the process for efficiency.
Preparation time: Approximately 30 minutes. This includes roasting and peeling chiles.
Cooking time: Around 60 minutes. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Total time: Approximately 90 minutes. This is roughly 20% less time than average complex chile verde recipes, thanks to our streamlined approach.
Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these precise steps to create a truly unforgettable Hatch Chicken Chile Verde.
Step 1: Prepare the Chiles
If using fresh Hatch chiles, roast them over an open flame, under a broiler, or on a hot grill until skins are blistered and charred. Place them in a bowl, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and let steam for 10-15 minutes. This makes peeling easier. Once cooled, peel the skins, remove stems and seeds, and roughly chop. This step is crucial for authentic flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add chicken to the pot and brown on all sides, about 3-5 minutes per side. Do not cook through. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside. This browning adds depth of flavor.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken. Add minced garlic and optional jalapeño; cook for another minute until fragrant. Do not burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the chopped Hatch green chiles, diced tomatoes (undrained), ground cumin, and dried oregano. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer. This forms the flavorful base of your Hatch Chicken Chile Verde.
Step 5: Simmer and Shred
Return the browned chicken to the pot. Ensure the chicken is mostly submerged in the liquid. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 45 minutes, or until the chicken is very tender and easily shreds with a fork. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors deepen. This slow cooking creates tender, juicy chicken.
Step 6: Finish and Season
Remove chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in fresh cilantro and lime juice. If desired, stir in heavy cream for a richer sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The fresh lime brightens all the flavors.
Nutritional Information
Our Hatch Chicken Chile Verde is not only delicious but also offers substantial nutritional benefits. A single serving (approximately 1.5 cups) typically provides around 350-400 calories, depending on the chicken cut and any added cream. It’s a good source of lean protein, with about 30-35 grams per serving, essential for muscle repair and growth.
You’ll also get a significant amount of Vitamin C from the chiles and tomatoes, boosting your immune system. The fiber content is moderate, contributing to digestive health. Fat content is manageable, especially if using chicken breast and minimal oil. This dish balances flavor with healthful components effectively.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Making this dish even healthier is simple without sacrificing flavor. Consider these clever modifications.
For a lower-fat version, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. You can also skip the browning step for chicken, simmering it directly in the sauce. This reduces added fats significantly.
Increase the vegetable content by adding diced zucchini, bell peppers, or corn during the last 15 minutes of simmering. This boosts fiber and nutrients. For a plant-based option, substitute chicken with cannellini beans or firm tofu, adjusting cooking times accordingly. The green chile chicken base adapts beautifully.
If you’re watching sodium, use low-sodium chicken broth and be mindful of added salt. The natural flavors of the chiles and spices are robust enough. Omit the heavy cream for a dairy-free and lighter option, or use a dairy-free alternative like unsweetened coconut milk for a hint of richness.
Serving Suggestions
The versatility of Hatch Chicken Chile Verde allows for numerous delicious serving options. Get creative and make it your own.
Serve it traditionally over fluffy white rice or quinoa for a complete meal. The rice soaks up the savory sauce beautifully. For a low-carb alternative, enjoy it over cauliflower rice or alongside steamed vegetables.
It makes an incredible filling for burritos or tacos. Just spoon the chile verde into warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado. It’s also fantastic as a topping for nachos or a baked potato. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for garnish.
Consider serving with warm cornbread or crusty bread for dipping into the rich sauce. A simple side salad can also provide a refreshing contrast. This dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, always a crowd-pleaser.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned cooks can make small errors. Steer clear of these common pitfalls for perfect Hatch Chicken Chile Verde every time.
- Not Roasting Chiles Properly: Insufficient roasting leads to tough skins and less flavor. Ensure skins are fully blistered and charred for easy peeling and maximum taste.
- Under-Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process. Chile verde needs salt to bring out its complex flavors. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper at the end.
- Overcooking Chicken: While the chicken needs to be tender enough to shred, don’t let it turn to mush. Simmer until just tender, then remove and shred.
- Skipping the Simmer: The long simmer is crucial for flavors to meld and deepen. Rushing this step results in a less complex, less satisfying dish.
- Forgetting Fresh Lime and Cilantro: These fresh additions at the end are not just garnishes; they brighten the entire dish and add essential zest.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Proper storage ensures your Hatch Chicken Chile Verde remains delicious for days. It’s excellent for meal prepping.
Allow the chile verde to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even better.
For longer storage, this dish freezes exceptionally well. Divide cooled chile verde into individual portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if it seems too thick upon reheating.
Conclusion
Our Hatch Chicken Chile Verde is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the rich, vibrant flavors of the Southwest. We’ve guided you through every step, from selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the art of simmering, ensuring a truly authentic and delicious experience.
This dish perfectly balances comfort with an exciting kick, proving that wholesome food can be incredibly flavorful. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your culinary creations with us. What are your favorite ways to serve this hearty dish? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and explore our other Southwest-inspired recipes for more delicious ideas!
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