Here’s a delicious Homemade Green Chile Picadillo recipe—a flavorful, slightly spicy, and comforting dish that’s perfect over rice, in tacos, or with warm tortillas.
Green Chile Picadillo
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 45 mins
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/pork)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1-2 jalapeños (optional, for extra heat), diced
- 1 (7 oz) can diced green chiles (or ½ cup roasted Hatch/Anaheim chiles)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- ½ cup chicken or beef broth
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Brown the meat: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté veggies: Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add seasonings: Stir in cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer: Add green chiles, diced tomatoes, broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish: Stir in peas (if using) and cook for 2-3 more minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges, rice, warm tortillas, or as taco filling.
Variations:
- Sweet & Tangy: Add 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar and 1 tbsp brown sugar.
- Potatoes: Diced potatoes can be added for extra heartiness.
- Vegetarian: Swap beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles.
This Green Chile Picadillo is versatile and packed with bold flavors—great for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner! Enjoy! 🌶️🍚

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