Tinga de pollo is made by simmering shredded chicken in a smoky blend of chipotle chillies and tomatoes. This versatile filling is traditionally served in soft tacos or on crispy tostadas.
The depth of flavor comes from the slow integration of smoky chipotle and the acidity of roasted tomatoes.
The Slow Cooker Method
Place boneless chicken breast or thigh in a slow cooker and cover with La Tortillería Chipotle Salsa. Cook on high for four hours, shred the meat with two forks, and simmer uncovered for another two hours until the broth thickens. For those who prefer a more intense heat, we suggest halving the amount of chicken while using the full jar of salsa.
Traditional Stovetop Tinga for Tostadas
Boil chicken with salt, bay leaf, and onion before shredding. Create a fresh salsa by charring tomatoes, onion, and garlic in a hot pan until blistered, then blend them with chipotle chillies in adobo and a splash of cooking liquid. Sauté the shredded chicken in this sauce on low heat until every piece is rich and deeply coated.
Achieving the Right Texture
Serve the chicken on tortillas heated in a dry pan until they are soft and floppy, or bake them at 180°C for 15 to 20 minutes to create golden tostadas. Top with fresh avocado, queso fresco, and crema to balance the smokiness. Customers at our Kensington tortilleria often ask how to keep tortillas pliable; wrapping them in a tea towel immediately after heating is the best method.
The Importance of Nixtamalized Corn
Using tortillas made from stone-ground nixtamalized corn provides the structural integrity needed to hold heavy, saucy fillings without tearing. This differs significantly from the thin, floury texture of mass-produced options found in Coles or Woolworths. Blue corn tortillas are almost impossible to find elsewhere in Australia and offer a nuttier profile that complements the earthiness of the chipotle.
Where to find authentic ingredients in Australia
Authentic corn tortillas and traditional Mexican salsas are available at our store, online, and through selected independent grocers.
