Venezuelan Shredded Chicken (Pollo Mechado – Juicy, Savory & Easy Latin Comfort Food)

This Venezuelan shredded chicken (pollo mechado) is juicy, savory, and packed with flavor from slow-simmered tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. This easy pollo mechado recipe is perfect for arepas, rice bowls, or tacos, making it a versatile and comforting Latin dish you’ll want on repeat. If you love cozy Venezuelan flavors like Arepas, Pabellón Criollo, or Reina Pepiada, this shredded chicken is a must-add to your meal rotation.

If you love cozy, home-style meals like this, explore more in my Authentic Venezuelan Recipes (Arepas, Cachapas, Pabellón & More Cozy Favorites) collection for easy, comforting dishes you can make any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This

• Juicy, tender shredded chicken packed with bold flavor

• Easy one-pot recipe with simple pantry ingredients

• Perfect for meal prep and make-ahead meals

• Versatile for arepas, bowls, tacos, and more

• Authentic-inspired Venezuelan comfort food

Recipe Card

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Servings: 4

Nutrition Information

(per serving, estimated)

• Calories: 280

• Protein: 32g

• Carbohydrates: 6g

• Fat: 14g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 420mg

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 300 g)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)

• 1 small onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium tomato, diced (or 1/2 cup canned, 120 ml)

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (30 g)

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 cup chicken broth (120 ml)

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add sliced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened (about 5–6 minutes).

3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add diced tomato and tomato paste, stirring to combine.

5. Season with cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.

6. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.

7. Add shredded chicken and mix well to coat in the sauce.

8. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until the flavors meld and the mixture thickens slightly.

9. Stir in vinegar and adjust seasoning if needed.

10. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken for a faster version

• Add olives or capers for a briny twist

• Make it spicy with a pinch of chili flakes

• Swap chicken for shredded beef for a pabellón-style variation

• Let it simmer longer for a deeper flavor

Make-Ahead & Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth. Freezes well for up to 2 months.

FAQ

What is pollo mechado?

Pollo mechado is a Venezuelan-style shredded chicken dish simmered with onions, peppers, tomatoes, and spices until flavorful and tender.

Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?

Yes. Cook the chicken first (boil or sauté), then shred and continue with the recipe.

What do you serve with pollo mechado?

It’s perfect with arepas, rice, black beans, or inside wraps and bowls.

What to Serve With

Serve this with fluffy white rice, black beans, or tucked into warm arepas. It also pairs beautifully with your Venezuelan Black Beans (Caraotas Negras) and a side of Guasacaca sauce for a complete, cozy meal.

Final Thoughts

This Venezuelan shredded chicken (pollo mechado) is one of those simple, flavor-packed recipes that works for almost any meal. It’s easy, comforting, and incredibly versatile — perfect for building bowls, stuffing arepas, or meal prepping for the week. Once you try it, it’s likely to become a regular in your kitchen.