Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Hatch green chilies are the star of this stew, adding a smoky, slightly spicy kick to the rich, savory broth. Combined with tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and a blend of spices like cumin and coriander, this stew becomes a well-balanced and satisfying meal. The creamy crack sauce adds a perfect contrast of flavor, and the optional lime and cilantro toppings make it fresh and vibrant. Whether you’re familiar with the flavors of New Mexico or trying them for the first time, this stew is bound to become a favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Stew:

1 lb chicken breast (or thighs for added flavor), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
4–5 Hatch green chilies, roasted, peeled, and chopped
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
1 lime, cut into wedges (optional, for garnish)

For the Crack Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 tablespoon ketchup
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Pinch of cayenne (optional for heat)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes, browning the chicken on all sides. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

3. Add the Hatch Green Chilies:

Stir in the roasted Hatch green chilies with the onions and garlic. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to combine.

4. Simmer the Stew:

Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, ground cumin, coriander, and oregano to the pot. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

5. Return the Chicken to the Pot:

Once the potatoes are tender, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir to combine and let the stew simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Taste and Adjust Seasonings:

Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper for extra heat, depending on your spice preference.

7. Serve and Garnish:

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Serve the stew with tortillas or cornbread for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6–8 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Roast the Hatch Chilies: If you’re using fresh Hatch chilies, roasting them yourself brings out their smoky flavor. You can do this on a grill or in the oven under the broiler.
Use Bone-In Chicken: For a richer, more flavorful broth, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts instead of boneless chicken breast.
Adjust the Heat: Hatch chilies can vary in spiciness, so adjust the quantity according to your heat tolerance. You can also add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you prefer more spice.
Add Beans: For a heartier stew, add a can of drained and rinsed white beans or black beans.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. You can add extra broth or water if it thickens too much after being stored.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of chili?

Yes, if you can’t find Hatch chilies, you can use other mild green chilies such as Anaheim or poblano. For more heat, try using jalapeños.

2. Can I make this stew vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this stew vegetarian by substituting the chicken with cubed tofu, seitan, or a medley of vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.

3. Can I make this stew spicier?

Definitely! Increase the amount of Hatch chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce.

4. Can I use store-bought roasted Hatch chilies?

Yes, store-bought roasted Hatch chilies work well in this recipe if you’re short on time. Just make sure to peel and chop them before adding them to the stew.

5. How do I know when the stew is done?

The stew is done when the potatoes are tender, and the chicken is fully cooked. The flavors should be well combined, and the stew should have a rich, hearty consistency.

6. Can I add cream to the stew for a creamier texture?

Yes, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking for a creamier texture. Stir it in and let it warm through before serving.

7. How can I make this stew richer?

To deepen the flavor, you can add a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of tomato paste when sautéing the onions and garlic. This will enhance the savory profile of the stew.

8. Can I make the crack sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the crack sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before serving.

9. Can I use other types of potatoes?

You can use other types of potatoes, such as Yukon Golds or sweet potatoes, depending on your preference. The texture may vary slightly, but they will all work well in the stew.

10. Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can prepare the stew in a slow cooker. Simply sauté the onions, garlic, and chicken in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker along with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Conclusion

This Hatch Green Chile Chicken Stew is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the bold, smoky heat of Hatch green chilies together with tender chicken and savory spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this stew is a taste of New Mexico in a bowl. Whether served with tortillas, cornbread, or enjoyed on its own, it’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.