Easy Hatch Green Chile Verde Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a big pot of green chile verde simmering on the stove—aromatic, comforting, and packed with bold, zesty flavor. This version is easy, approachable, and celebrates the smoky, slightly sweet flavor of Hatch chiles. Imagine tender, fall-apart pork bathed in a tangy, garlicky, slightly spicy verde sauce with the freshness of cilantro and tomatillos shining through. One bite, and you’ll be hooked.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a crowd-pleasing dish for family and friends. It’s hearty, flavorful, and ridiculously satisfying—plus, it makes your kitchen smell incredible.

Recipe Origin

Green chile verde is a classic New Mexican dish, traditionally made with pork, green chiles, and tomatillos. Hatch chiles, grown in New Mexico, are known for their mild heat, smoky flavor, and vibrant green color—making them the perfect star for this dish.

The combination of tender pork, roasted chiles, and tangy tomatillos creates a sauce that’s both comforting and lively—a true Southwestern classic with a little twist to keep it easy and approachable for home cooks.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Blender or food processor
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups

Why You’ll Love Easy Hatch Green Chile Verde

Bold Flavor

Smoky Hatch chiles, tangy tomatillos, garlic, and fresh cilantro combine for a flavor-packed sauce that’s impossible to resist.

Hearty and Comforting

Tender, juicy pork shoulder simmers in a rich, savory sauce—perfect over rice, tortillas, or even roasted vegetables.

Easy Weeknight Meal

Minimal prep and simple ingredients make this recipe achievable even on a busy night.

Crowd-Pleasing

Serve it at family dinners or casual get-togethers—it’s hearty, satisfying, and loved by everyone at the table.

Customizable Heat

Adjust the number of chiles or leave seeds in for extra spice, or remove seeds for a milder dish.

Ingredients in Easy Hatch Green Chile Verde

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Hatch Chiles: Smoky, mild, and packed with flavor—the star ingredient that gives the sauce its signature verde taste.

Pork Shoulder/Butt: Tender, marbled meat that melts in your mouth as it simmers.

Tomatillos: Tangy and bright, they balance the richness of the pork and chiles.

Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and a savory punch.

Cilantro: Fresh and vibrant, it adds brightness to the dish.

Onion: Provides a savory base and subtle sweetness.

Cumin & Oregano: Warm, earthy spices that round out the Southwestern flavor profile.

Chicken Stock: Helps create a rich, flavorful sauce while keeping the pork moist and tender.

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Roast Hatch chiles until lightly charred and skins blistered, then peel, deseed, and roughly chop.

Sear the Pork: In a large Dutch oven, sear cubed pork over medium-high heat until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion and garlic. Cook until fragrant and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Make Verde Sauce: Add roasted chiles, tomatillos, cumin, oregano (if using), and chicken stock to the pot. Blend or process until smooth if you prefer a silky sauce.

Simmer the Pork: Return pork to the pot. Cover and simmer on low heat for 2–3 hours, or until pork is tender and flavors meld beautifully.

Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in chopped cilantro just before serving for a burst of freshness.

Season to Taste: Add salt and black pepper as needed.

Serve & Enjoy: Spoon over rice, warm tortillas, or enjoy on its own. This dish is perfect for topping nachos, tacos, or even enchiladas.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6–8
Calories per serving: ~380

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2–3 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes – 3 hours 20 minutes

How to Serve Easy Hatch Green Chile Verde

• With Rice: Spoon over fluffy white or Mexican rice for a complete meal.
• Tortillas: Serve as tacos or burritos with fresh lime and shredded cheese.
• With Beans: Pair with black beans or pinto beans for a hearty combo.
• As a Stew: Serve in a bowl with warm cornbread for a cozy dinner.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep Ahead: Roast chiles and chop ingredients a day in advance to save time.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months—thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Leave in seeds or add extra Hatch chiles for more heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute pork with roasted cauliflower, sweet potatoes, or jackfruit.
• Extra Tang: Add a splash of lime juice or a touch of vinegar for brightness.
• Smoky Depth: Add a few drops of chipotle in adobo for a smoky twist.

Additional Tips

• Use fresh Hatch chiles in season, or frozen if not available.
• Blend sauce for a smoother texture or leave chunky for a rustic feel.
• Cook low and slow for maximum flavor and tender pork.
• Adjust seasoning gradually—Hatch chiles vary in heat.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use regular green chiles instead of Hatch?
A1: Yes, but Hatch chiles provide a signature smoky flavor.

Q2: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A2: Absolutely—sear pork first, then cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Q3: Can I freeze leftovers?
A3: Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Q4: Can I make this spicier?
A4: Yes, leave seeds in the chiles or add a dash of cayenne.

Q5: Can I use chicken instead of pork?
A5: Sure! Use thighs for best results—they stay tender during simmering.

Q6: Is it gluten-free?
A6: Yes, naturally gluten-free if using gluten-free stock.

Q7: How do I reheat leftovers?
A7: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of stock if needed.

Q8: Can I make it vegetarian?
A8: Yes! Substitute pork with roasted vegetables or beans.

Q9: What should I serve on the side?
A9: Rice, tortillas, beans, or a fresh green salad complement it beautifully.

Q10: Can I make this ahead of time for a party?
A10: Definitely—flavors improve if made a day in advance. Reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

This Easy Hatch Green Chile Verde is comfort food with a bold, Southwestern twist. Tender pork, smoky Hatch chiles, tangy tomatillos, and fresh cilantro come together in a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and versatile. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep, this green chile verde is easy enough to make on a busy day but special enough to impress anyone at the table.

Grab your chiles, get simmering, and enjoy the vibrant, smoky, tangy, melt-in-your-mouth magic of this classic New Mexican favorite.

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