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There’s just something magical about tossing everything into a slow cooker, going about your day, and coming back to a meal that smells like you’ve been tending to it for hours—because technically, you have (but without the work). That’s exactly what Slow Cooker Chicken Posole is all about: low effort, big reward.
This dish is rich, soul-warming, and bursting with flavor, thanks to a bold blend of spices and tender shredded chicken swimming in a broth that’ll make your kitchen smell like a cozy hug. Whether you’re new to posole or it’s already close to your heart, this version is about to become your go-to comfort meal. Trust me, you’re going to love this one—it’s hearty, soothing, and perfect for any time you need a little culinary joy.
Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Chicken Posole
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing something warm and comforting is waiting for you.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No fancy stuff here—just honest, nourishing flavor.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. Pop it in the slow cooker, and the magic happens on its own.
Customizable: Want it spicier? Go for it. Milder? Totally doable. Add toppings and adjust seasonings to your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: From picky kids to adventurous foodies, this one wins hearts (and second helpings).
Ingredients in Slow Cooker Chicken Posole
Here’s the magic of this hearty stew—it’s built on simple pantry staples, yet it packs a punch of flavor that tastes anything but basic. Let’s take a look:
Chicken Breasts: The tender, protein-rich base. They soak up all the warm, savory broth flavors and practically fall apart when shredded.
Hominy: A must in posole! These puffy, chewy corn kernels add texture and a slightly nutty flavor.
Chicken Broth: The cozy, soul-soothing foundation that carries all the spices and flavors to every bite.
Onion: Adds aromatic sweetness and depth—essential for building a flavor-packed base.
Garlic: Because what’s comfort food without garlic? It infuses every spoonful with its warm, pungent magic.
Green Chiles: They bring just the right amount of mild heat and tangy depth.
Cumin: Earthy, smoky, and warming—this spice gives posole its signature vibe.
Oregano: Adds a subtle herbaceous note that ties everything together.
Bay Leaf: Just one, but it works behind the scenes to deepen the whole pot.
Toppings (Optional but Recommended): Think sliced radishes, chopped cilantro, avocado, lime wedges, shredded cabbage… go wild!
> (Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Prep Your Slow Cooker: Set your slow cooker to low or high, depending on how much time you have. You want it ready to go so it can start working its magic.
Combine Ingredients: Add chicken breasts, hominy, broth, onion, garlic, green chiles, and seasonings directly into the slow cooker. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything.
Let It Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to shred.
Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot. This lets all that juicy shredded chicken soak up the broth and spices even more.
Add Final Seasonings (Optional): Taste and adjust salt or spices if needed. Add a pinch more cumin or a squeeze of lime if you want to brighten things up.
Serve and Garnish: Ladle into bowls and load up on toppings—sliced radishes, avocado, lime, fresh cilantro, cabbage—you name it.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 310
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes or 3 hours 10 minutes
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Posole
This dish shines on its own, but you can elevate the experience with a few thoughtful sides and garnishes:
Fresh Salads: A tangy cabbage slaw or a light arugula salad with citrus vinaigrette adds brightness and crunch.
Crusty Bread: Mop up all that delicious broth with warm, crusty bread—or go for some toasty tortillas.
Creamy Accompaniments: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt gives a rich, cooling balance to the heat.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted veggies like sweet potatoes or zucchini pair beautifully with this savory stew.
As a Standalone: It’s satisfying enough to be the main event. Just top with your faves and dig in.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Chop the onions and garlic the night before to make your morning even easier.
Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or chipotle powder if you want more heat.
Dietary Adjustments: Use low-sodium broth or skip the salt for a lighter version.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Double the Batch: Make a big batch and freeze half for future you—you’ll be thankful.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A1: Totally! Thighs are even juicier and add extra richness to the broth.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! Cook it the day before and store it in the fridge. Reheat on the stove or in the slow cooker on warm.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It actually tastes better the next day!
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Absolutely. Freeze in individual portions for easy grab-and-reheat meals.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if needed.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Yes, just be sure your slow cooker is large enough. You may need to add extra cooking time.
Q7: What toppings go best with posole?
A7: Radishes, avocado, shredded cabbage, lime wedges, and cilantro are classics—but make it your own!
Q8: Can I make it spicier?
A8: Definitely! Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or a dash of cayenne to kick it up.
Q9: What kind of hominy should I use?
A9: Canned white hominy works great—just drain and rinse before adding.
Q10: Can I make this vegetarian?
A10: Sure! Swap the chicken for jackfruit or extra beans and use veggie broth instead.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken Posole is comfort food that feels like a celebration in a bowl. It’s easy, customizable, and brimming with bold, cozy flavor. Whether you’re curled up with a good book, hosting friends, or meal prepping for the week, this dish checks every box.
So go ahead, let your slow cooker do the work—and get ready to serve up some serious deliciousness. You’ve got this!
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken Posole: 5 Easy Steps for a Flavorful Feast
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken Posole is a cozy, flavorful dish made with shredded chicken, hominy, green chiles, and a blend of spices. It’s the perfect comfort food that’s easy to prepare in your crockpot. Top with shredded cabbage, radishes, queso fresco, and tortilla chips for the ultimate meal! #ChickenPosole #SlowCookerRecipes #ComfortFood #MexicanCuisine #CrockpotMeals #Hominy #SpicySoup #EasyDinner
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1 (25-ounce) can white hominy, drained
- 2 (4-ounce) cans diced green chiles
- 1 sweet onion, diced
- 1 poblano pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 medium tomatillos, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- For Serving: Shredded cabbage, Sliced radish, Crumbled queso fresco, Tortilla chips, Lime wedges
Instructions
- Place the chicken thighs into a 6-quart slow cooker. Stir in the chicken stock, hominy, green chiles, onion, poblano pepper, garlic, cumin, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it cool before dicing it into bite-sized pieces. Discard the bones.
- Stir the tomatillos, cilantro, lime juice, and diced chicken back into the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the chicken posole immediately with your desired toppings, such as shredded cabbage, sliced radish, crumbled queso fresco, tortilla chips, and lime wedges.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a few slices of jalapeño or other chili peppers when cooking the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Top with extra cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg