There’s something about the comforting warmth of a hearty stew that makes you feel all cozy inside. Pollo Guisado, or chicken stew, is the perfect dish for those days when you crave a meal that’s rich, flavorful, and just plain satisfying. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer, with tender chicken swimming in a savory broth, packed with vegetables, herbs, and just the right balance of spices. It’s like getting a big, warm hug from your kitchen, and I’m so excited to share it with you! Get ready for a new favorite.
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Why You’ll Love Pollo Guisado
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s the magic of Pollo Guisado—it’s made with just a few simple ingredients, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Chicken Thighs: The star of the show. Bone-in chicken thighs are perfect for this dish because they stay juicy and tender as they cook, soaking up all the delicious flavors of the broth.
Potatoes: These add heartiness and texture, making every spoonful a little more satisfying. Plus, they absorb the stew’s flavors wonderfully!
Carrots: For a pop of color and a touch of sweetness, carrots are a must. They soften beautifully as they cook, complementing the savory broth.
Onions & Garlic: These flavor-builders are essential for creating that rich base. When sautéed, they add depth and warmth to the stew.
Tomato Paste & Diced Tomatoes: These bring a savory tang and a bit of richness, helping to thicken the stew while adding that perfect tomato flavor.
Bell Peppers: For a fresh crunch and vibrant color, bell peppers round out the dish, adding a little something extra to each bite.
Spices: We’re keeping it simple yet flavorful with a mix of cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. But feel free to get creative—add chili flakes for heat or smoked paprika for a smoky twist!
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
1. Brown the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook until golden brown on both sides. This adds flavor and texture, creating a rich base for your stew.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, carrots, and bell peppers. Sauté until the veggies soften and the onions become translucent. This step builds flavor and adds sweetness to your stew.
3. Add Tomato Paste & Diced Tomatoes: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Then, add the diced tomatoes and scrape up any delicious bits left in the pot from browning the chicken.
4. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in your broth (chicken or vegetable) and add the cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Return the Chicken: Add the chicken back to the pot along with the potatoes. Ensure the chicken is submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
6. Final Touches: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir everything together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you want a thicker stew, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm with a side of crusty bread or over rice to soak up all that flavorful goodness. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 350
(Note: nutritional info may vary depending on the specific ingredients used)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
How to Serve Pollo Guisado
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts?
A1: Absolutely! While chicken breasts are leaner, they’ll still work well. Just keep an eye on them as they cook since they can dry out more easily than thighs.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, it’s a great make-ahead recipe. Prepare it up to the point of cooking, and store it in the fridge. Reheat it just before serving.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or stovetop.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! Doubling the recipe works great, and you’ll have plenty of leftovers for the next day.
Q7: Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
A7: Yes, you can! Brown the chicken and sauté the veggies first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until everything is tender.
Q8: Can I add other vegetables?
A8: Absolutely! Feel free to throw in some peas, corn, or green beans for extra texture and flavor.
Q9: What type of potatoes should I use?
A9: Yukon gold or russet potatoes work best. They’re starchy and will absorb the flavors beautifully.
Q10: Can I make this dish spicier?
A10: Yes! Add some diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or even a bit of hot sauce to bring up the heat.
Conclusion
Pollo Guisado is one of those dishes that truly delivers on comfort, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight meal or something special for a gathering, this chicken stew has you covered. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this hearty, soul-warming dish!
Print
Pollo Guisado Recipe (Chicken Stew)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Caribbean
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Pollo Guisado is a savory and comforting chicken stew infused with Caribbean and Latin flavors, featuring tender braised chicken, potatoes, sofrito, and olives simmered in a rich tomato broth. A one-pot dinner perfect for weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2–1/2 pound chicken, cut up, skin on
- 2 tablespoons adobo seasoning
- 1 tablespoon sazon seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 small bell pepper, chopped (or use hotter peppers to your taste)
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1/4 cup sofrito
- 1/2 cup olives
- 3 medium potatoes, halved and quartered
- 2–3 bay leaves
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- FOR GARNISH: Spicy chili flakes, fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Season the chicken with adobo and sazon seasoning, coating all sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 10 minutes, browning all sides and flipping halfway through.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, and sofrito. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Add the olives, potatoes, bay leaves, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 30 minutes, or until chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Garnish with red pepper flakes and fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra heat, substitute the bell pepper with a spicier variety like jalapeños or habaneros.
- This stew pairs well with white rice or crusty bread.
- Sofrito can be homemade or store-bought for convenience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 451
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg