Pollo Fundido

This Pollo Fundido recipe brings together tender, shredded vegan chicken smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce for a deliciously comforting dish. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy meal at home, it combines zesty spices, melted cheese, and flavorful toppings to create an irresistible dip. Serve it with warm tortillas, chips, or fresh veggies, and get ready for everyone to dig in!

What is Pollo Fundido?

Pollo fundido is a Mexican-American dish that typically features shredded or grilled chicken wrapped in a flour tortilla, then smothered in a creamy, melted cheese sauce.

Often, it’s seasoned with spices like cumin, chili powder, or garlic for added flavor. It can be served as a burrito-style wrap or open-faced, topped with additional garnishes like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.

This rich and comforting dish is popular in southwestern U.S. cuisine, especially in Arizona and New Mexico.

What ingredients go into this Pollo Fundido?

For a vegan version of pollo fundido, these ingredients combine to create a flavorful, creamy, and satisfying dish:

Use plant-based chicken substitutes to replace traditional shredded chicken. It provides a hearty texture and absorbs the spices well, making it a great protein base for this recipe.

Sautéed onions add depth and sweetness, which balance the spiciness of the jalapeños and cayenne pepper. Finely chop and cook until softened to enhance the dish’s savory notes.

Fresh minced garlic brings a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the creaminess of the sauce. Add it with the onions for a balanced base flavor.

Fresh or pickled jalapeños add a bit of heat and tang, giving the dish its signature Southwestern kick. You can adjust the amount depending on your preferred spice level.

Oat Milk: This dairy-free milk substitute makes for a creamy, smooth sauce without overpowering other flavors. Opt for unsweetened oat milk to avoid any unintended sweetness in the dish.

Use a vegan cheese that melts well, such as a dairy-free cheddar or mozzarella. This creates the luscious, gooey consistency traditionally found in pollo fundido, especially when combined with oat milk for the sauce.

Just a pinch of cayenne pepper adds a spicy undertone and enhances the smoky flavor of the smoked paprika. It’s optional but recommended for those who enjoy a bit of extra heat.

Smoked Paprika adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce. It also gives a subtle depth, elevating the dish with a hint of warmth.

Dairy-free butter helps sauté the onions, garlic, and jalapeños while adding a rich, slightly buttery taste. It’s essential for creating a smooth, velvety sauce texture when mixed with oat milk and vegan cheese.

These ingredients together make a deliciously creamy and spicy vegan twist on traditional pollo fundido!

How to make Pollo Fundido?

Begin with slicing the peeled onion and melting the vegan butter in a pot or saucepan. Add the onion slices, reduce to medium-high heat and let all cook for 5-6 minutes. The onions should be soft and fragrant.

Then, give the shredded chicken to the pot, season with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic. Fry all for another 5 minutes.

Now, pour in the oat milk and mix in the vegan cheese. Reduce to medium to low heat and keep stirring everything until the cheese is completely melted. 

Give in the jalapeno slices and let the Pollo Fundido simmer for 2 more minutes. Now it is ready. 

Best ways to serve Pollo Fundido

Here are some tasty ways to serve your vegan pollo fundido:

• Serve the vegan pollo fundido as a dip with crispy tortilla chips for a fun and shareable appetizer. It’s perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings.
• Spoon the creamy, cheesy mixture over rice or cauliflower rice to create a hearty, comforting main dish. Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions for extra flavor.
• Fill soft flour or corn tortillas with the vegan pollo fundido mixture. Top with fresh salsa, avocado slices, shredded lettuce, and a squeeze of lime for delicious, loaded tacos.
• Wrap the mixture in a large tortilla along with some refried beans, lettuce, and pico de gallo for a satisfying burrito. You can even bake it for a crispy outer shell.
• Serve alongside sliced bell peppers, cucumber rounds, and baby carrots for a healthier option. The fresh crunch of the veggies balances out the rich, creamy sauce.
• Spoon the vegan pollo fundido over a baked potato or sweet potato for a comforting twist. Top with chopped green onions and vegan sour cream for extra flavor.

These serving ideas make the dish versatile and easy to enjoy for any occasion!

Other recipes to try

• Authentic Mexican White Sauce
• Mexican Lasagna
• Mexican Street Corn Chowder
• Mexican Cheese Dip [vegan, gf]
• Mexican Quinoa Wraps

Now that you’ve created this deliciously creamy vegan pollo fundido, it’s time to dig in! Whether I’m serving it as a dip, filling tacos, or enjoying it over rice, this dish always hits the spot.

If you try it and love it as much as I do, snap a picture and share it on Instagram or Facebook—be sure to tag me so I can see your masterpiece!

And if this recipe becomes a new favorite, please leave a comment below with a star rating. Your feedback helps others find their next great meal, and I’d love to hear what you think!