Once you catch a whiff of pollo guisado simmering away, you’ll find it hard to resist the urge to dive right in. This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly day, with tender chicken bathed in a rich, savory sauce that makes your taste buds dance and your heart sing. chicken tortellini dish It’s the kind of meal that transports you back to family gatherings where laughter mingles with the aroma of spices, creating memories as delicious as the food itself.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is pollo guisado?
- Can I make pollo guisado ahead of time?
- What should I serve with pollo guisado?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Remember the first time you were dared to try cooking something special? That was me, my kitchen filled with the chaotic symphony of clattering pots and sizzling pans. As I bravely embarked on making pollo guisado for my friends, I felt excitement mixed with a hint of panic. Cajun flavor experience Spoiler alert: it turned out to be an unforgettable success! Perfect for cozy family dinners or celebratory feasts, this dish promises an explosion of flavor that’s sure to impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful pollo guisado recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The combination of spices creates layers of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds
- With its vibrant colors and aromatic appeal, it makes every meal feel festive
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair beautifully with rice, tortillas, or even salad!
I remember serving this pollo guisado at a family reunion; the joy on everyone’s faces was priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are perfect for moisture; choose thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances richness; use it sparingly but generously enough to coat the chicken.
Fresh Garlic: Use whole cloves for a robust flavor; don’t skimp here—garlic makes everything better!
Onion: Yellow onions bring sweetness; sauté them until they’re translucent for maximum flavor.
Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add both crunch and visual appeal; go for red or yellow for sweetness.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned or fresh work wonders; they create the base of our rich sauce.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding depth.
Cumin and Oregano: Essential spices that provide warmth; these are non-negotiable if you want authentic flavors.
Pimento Olives: These give a unique twist; chop them up finely and mix them in for that special kick.
Salt and Pepper: Simple yet necessary seasonings; adjust according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by chopping onions, garlic, bell peppers, and olives into bite-sized pieces. This will save time later and get those aromas flowing right away.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large pot. Add chicken thighs seasoned with salt and pepper. refreshing salad side Sear each side until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Add Vegetables and Spices: Toss in chopped onions and garlic once chicken is browned. Stir frequently until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3 minutes should do it.
Create the Sauce Base: Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth while stirring well. Add cumin, oregano, and pimento olives. Let this bubbling mixture come together beautifully.
Simmer Until Tender: Reduce heat to low, cover your pot tightly, and let it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes. The chicken will become wonderfully tender during this time.
Serve It Up!: Once cooked through, remove from heat. Serve hot over rice or with tortillas on the side. Enjoy every bite as flavors meld together perfectly!
This easy pollo guisado recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table as you enjoy all its deliciousness! For more inspiration, check out this salsa chicken recipe recipe.
You Must Know
- Pollo guisado is more than just chicken stew; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl
- The blend of spices fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, making it irresistible
- You can serve it with rice or tortillas for a truly hearty meal that warms the soul
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to enhance flavor, then sear it until golden brown before adding vegetables and broth for an even cook.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin and paprika or swap out chicken for beef or tofu for a unique twist on pollo guisado. lasagna with chicken.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For delicious pollo guisado, marinate your chicken overnight for maximum flavor
- Use fresh herbs like cilantro to add brightness
- Don’t rush the simmering; let flavors meld for at least 30 minutes for the best results
The first time I made pollo guisado for friends, they couldn’t stop raving about it! Their smiles were worth every spice I tossed into the pot.
FAQ
What is pollo guisado?
Pollo guisado is a traditional Latin American chicken stew, rich in flavors and spices. For more inspiration, check out this chicken and dumplings recipe.
Can I make pollo guisado ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better when made a day in advance as flavors develop over time.
What should I serve with pollo guisado?
Pair it with white rice, warm tortillas, or avocado slices for a complete meal experience.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Pollo Guisado
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Pollo guisado is a comforting Latin American chicken stew that envelops tender chicken in a rich, savory sauce, making it an irresistible family favorite. Infused with aromatic spices and vibrant vegetables, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings. Enjoy it over rice or with warm tortillas for a complete meal that warms the heart and delights the taste buds.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers (red or yellow), chopped
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ cup pimento olives, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Prep your ingredients: Chop onions, garlic, bell peppers, and olives.
- 2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear each side until golden brown (about 4-5 minutes per side).
- 3. Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the chopped onions and garlic; cook until soft (about 3 minutes).
- 4. Create the Sauce Base: Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth; mix well. Stir in cumin, oregano, and pimento olives.
- 5. Simmer Until Tender: Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender.
- 6. Serve It Up: Remove from heat and serve hot over rice or with tortillas.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Latin American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg