Best Easy Pollo Desmenuzado Recipe

Shredded chicken seasoned with tomato, onion, and chiles — a versatile high protein filling for tacos, tostadas, and burritos. Perfect for meal prep, freezer storage, and calorie deficit planning.

Cook 40 min Difficulty EASY 210 kcal
#high protein #diabetic friendly
Image coming soon
Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • boneless skinless chicken breast 2 lbs
  • yellow onion 1 pieces
  • roma tomato 2 pieces
  • poblano chile 1 pieces
  • garlic cloves 2 cloves
Seasonings/Sauce
  • ground cumin 1 tsp
  • dried oregano 1 tsp
  • kosher salt 1.5 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • olive oil 1 tbsp
  • bay leaf 1 pieces
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 7 g 13%
Protein 29 g 55%
Fat 6 g 32%
Serving size 150g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes, stirring to prevent browning.

  2. 2

    Add minced garlic, diced poblano chile, and chopped tomatoes. Increase heat slightly and sauté for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables begin to break down and release moisture.

  3. 3

    Place chicken breasts in the pan, nestling them into the vegetable mixture. Sprinkle with ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and add the bay leaf.

  4. 4

    Pour 1/2 cup water around the chicken, cover, and simmer on low heat for 20–25 minutes, turning chicken once halfway. The chicken should reach 165°F internally.

  5. 5

    Transfer chicken to a large plate and shred with two forks. Increase heat to medium-high and reduce the sauce for 3–4 minutes, then return shredded chicken to the pan, tossing until thoroughly coated and most liquid has evaporated.

  6. 6

    Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Serve hot as a filling for tacos, tostadas, or burritos, or cool completely for storage.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Pollo Desmenuzado recipe?
The core ingredient is boneless skinless chicken breast, which provides the main protein and texture. The seasoning blend of tomato, onion, and poblano chile also defines the signature flavor of authentic Pollo Desmenuzado.
Q. How do I ensure the chicken stays moist and tender?
Simmering chicken breast gently in a covered pan with vegetables and a small amount of water keeps it moist. Turn the chicken halfway and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Shred the meat while it’s hot for the best texture.
Q. What’s the best way to prevent overcooked or dry chicken?
Monitor the chicken's doneness closely and avoid boiling. Cook on low just until the chicken reaches 165°F, then remove it promptly for shredding. Overcooking can make the texture rubbery or dry.
Q. What are the nutrition highlights per serving?
Each 150g serving contains about 210 kcal, with 29g protein (55% of calories), 7g carbs (13%), and 6g fat (32%). This makes Pollo Desmenuzado an excellent high-protein and lower-calorie filling suitable for meal prep and calorie deficits.
Q. Can I use this filling for meal prep or freezer storage?
Yes, after cooking and cooling, Pollo Desmenuzado stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to preserve moisture and texture.
AI 채팅 아이콘