Looking for a meal that’s comforting and easy to make? Sadie’s Chicken Tinga is just that. This chicken tinga recipe brings together everything you love about hearty home-cooked food with a punch of Southwest flavor that’s both exciting and approachable.
It’s tangy from Sadie’s Roasted Garlic Salsa, juicy and moist thanks to slow-simmered chicken thighs, and full of savory depth from spices and aromatics. The jalapeños add a gentle heat that you can dial up or down, while the onions soften into a slightly sweet backdrop that balances everything beautifully.
This quick tinga recipe is sure to become a go-to comfort food you’ll want on repeat, especially with how simple it is to make. But first, let’s explore what a chicken tinga is and why you’ll love this Sadie’s recipe.
What is chicken tinga?
Chicken tinga, also known as Tinga de Pollo, is a classic Mexican dish that’s traditionally made with shredded chicken that’s simmered in a rich, smoky tomato-based sauce featuring peppers, onions, and garlic.
The name “tinga” refers to a preparation style where meat is cooked until tender and infused with bold, savory flavors.
What sets Mexican chicken tinga apart from other dishes is its balanced blend of tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet notes. It’s often served in tacos, tostadas, or tortas, topped with fresh garnishes like crema, avocado, or cheese. You can also pile spicy chicken tinga over fluffy rice or stuff it generously into hearty burritos.
In this Tinga de Pollo recipe, we’re giving it a local twist by using Sadie’s Roasted Garlic Salsa as the flavor base to make tinga tacos . It adds smoky depth, roasted richness, and garlic-forward boldness with minimal effort—making it perfect for a weeknight meal that tastes like it simmered all day.
Why You’ll Love This 7-Step Mexican Chicken Tinga Recipe
What makes this recipe unique is how easily it can become part of your regular weeknight rotation. With just a single jar of our roasted garlic salsa and some chicken, peppers, and onions, you’re set to go!
Here are some reasons why you’ll love this recipe:
- Ultra-flavorful – That roasted garlic salsa does all the work.
- Great for meal prep – Can make a big batch that freezes beautifully.
- Customizable heat – Control the spice level with jalapeños and peppers.
- Crowd-pleaser – Approachable, savory flavors for taco bars or family dinners.
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Without further ado, let’s move onto how to make this delicious 7-step Mexican tinga recipe!
Sadie’s Salsa Chicken Tinga Recipe – Flavorful, Spicy, and Simple
Description
Make this spicy chicken tinga recipe in just a few steps! Loaded with flavor from Sadie's Roasted Garlic Salsa, it’s the perfect quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Peel the onion and slice it into thin strips.
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Cut the tops off the jalapeños, then slice them lengthwise down the middle. Remove the seeds (optional), and cut into thin slices.
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Place the chicken thighs in a mixing bowl. Season with salt, pepper, granulated garlic, and a drizzle of vegetable oil. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning and oil.
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Heat a sauté pan over high heat. Once hot, add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Place the chicken into the hot pan and cook for 4 minutes. Flip and cook for another 4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
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Lower the heat to medium. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan, then add the sliced onions and jalapeños. Cook until the onions have softened.
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Add the jar of Sadie’s Roasted Garlic Salsa to the pan.
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Return the chicken thighs to the pan and add 1 cup of water. Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender enough to shred.
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Serve however you like and enjoy!
Note
Recipe Tips & FAQ
Don’t have roasted garlic salsa? Use any of Sadie’s tomato-based salsas or a fire-roasted tomato salsa.
Want it spicier? Leave jalapeño seeds in!
Chicken breasts? Sure, but thighs are juicier and shred better.
Don't know how to serve tinga? Try in rice bowls, tacos, burritos, or with tostadas.
The best way to shred chicken? Use two forks or a hand mixer right in the pan after simmering.
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely. And it's great for making in bulk to freeze!
Tried this recipe? Tag us @sadiessalsa and show us your version of chicken tinga!
