Some dishes are like warm hugs on a chilly evening, and pollo guisado is one of them. Imagine succulent chicken simmering in a fragrant blend of spices, tomatoes, and bell peppers, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Each bite is a celebration of flavors that can transport you straight to the comforting embrace of home-cooked meals.
I still remember the first time I tasted pollo guisado at my abuela’s house. It was a family gathering, and her secret recipe was the star of the show. The laughter, the chatter, and the savory goodness made it an unforgettable experience. Now, I can’t help but think of those moments every time I whip up this delightful dish for my loved ones.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Pollo guisado is simple to prepare yet packed with rich flavors that delight every palate
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for family gatherings
- It cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze
- Serve it over rice or with tortillas for a versatile meal option
Family members rave about how much they love this comforting dish whenever I make it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Bone-in Chicken Thighs: A great choice for flavor; they stay juicy and tender during cooking.
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Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; always opt for fresh over pre-packaged.
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Onion: Chopped onions add sweetness; choose yellow or white for a milder flavor.
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Bell Peppers: Use colorful bell peppers for visual appeal; they also contribute a sweet crunch.
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Tomato Sauce: A must-have for richness; you can use canned or homemade sauce based on your preference.
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Cumin and Oregano: These spices elevate the dish’s flavor profile; don’t skip them!
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Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water enhances the overall taste; low-sodium options are available.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps sauté ingredients perfectly; feel free to substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
For seasoning:
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all flavors; adjust to your taste preference.
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A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little heat in their meals!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Sauté Your Base Ingredients: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic until softened and aromatic—about 3-4 minutes will do the trick.
Brown the Chicken**: Place bone-in chicken thighs into the pot and brown each side for 5-7 minutes. This step locks in moisture while creating that delightful golden color we all crave.
Add Vegetables and Spices**: Toss in chopped bell peppers along with cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until fragrant—around 2 minutes should suffice.
Pour in Tomato Sauce and Broth**: Pour tomato sauce and chicken broth into your pot. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all those beautiful flavors to meld together—about 10 minutes will work wonders.
Cover and Cook**: Reduce heat to low, cover your pot, and let it cook gently for 30-40 minutes. This slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender while soaking up all those delightful flavors.
Final Touches**: Once cooked through, remove chicken from the pot briefly to shred it if desired. Return shredded chicken back into the sauce for extra flavor infusion—every morsel will be bursting with deliciousness!
With these steps complete, you’re ready to serve up steaming bowls of pollo guisado! Pair it with fluffy white rice or warm tortillas for an unforgettable meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
You Must Know
- Pollo guisado is more than just a dish; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl
- The blend of spices and tender chicken creates an aroma that will make your kitchen feel like home
- It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends, making every meal memorable
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to absorb all those delicious flavors. Sear it in a hot pan before adding your vegetables and broth for maximum taste and tenderness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or even tofu! Add your favorite veggies or herbs to personalize this dish based on what you have at home.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Enhance the flavor of pollo guisado by using fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley at the end
- Cook low and slow for tender chicken that falls off the bone
- Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning as needed for perfection
The first time I made pollo guisado, my friends devoured it so quickly I barely got a taste! Their compliments made me feel like a rock star chef.
FAQ
What is pollo guisado?
Pollo guisado is a traditional Latin American chicken stew packed with flavor.
Can I use frozen chicken for pollo guisado?
Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking for best results.
How can I make pollo guisado spicier?
Add jalapeños or chili powder during cooking to kick up the heat level!
Delicious Pollo Guisado: A Comforting Chicken Stew
Experience the warmth of home with this pollo guisado recipe. This traditional Latin American chicken stew features tender bone-in chicken thighs simmered in a rich blend of spices, tomatoes, and colorful bell peppers. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Serve it over fluffy rice or with warm tortillas for a meal that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly evening.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs (1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 yellow), chopped
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add bone-in chicken thighs to the pot. Brown each side for 5-7 minutes until golden.
- Stir in chopped bell peppers, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in tomato sauce and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and cook for an additional 30-40 minutes until chicken is tender.
- Remove chicken to shred if desired; return shredded meat to the sauce before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
