Description
Chori Pollo is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining tender chicken thighs with spicy chorizo sausage, enhanced by smoky paprika, fresh garlic, and brightened with citrus and cilantro. This easy-to-prepare recipe delivers a perfect balance of bold and comforting flavors, ideal for quick weeknight meals or sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, diced
- 6 oz chorizo sausage, casing removed
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Finishing Ingredients
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and remove the casing from the chorizo for easy crumbling. Finely chop the onion and garlic to enhance their flavor release during cooking.
- Cook the Chorizo: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and crumble the chorizo into the pan. Cook until crisp and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the cooked chorizo and set aside, leaving the seasoned oil in the pan.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same pan, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until translucent and aromatic, about 3 minutes, building the aromatic base essential for the dish’s rich flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pan and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken is golden and cooked through, roughly 6-8 minutes.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chorizo to the pan with the chicken. Stir everything together so the flavors meld nicely. Remove from heat and squeeze in fresh lemon or lime juice for a lively finish.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top and serve immediately, adding a fresh, vibrant color and flavor to the dish.
Notes
- Use thigh meat to keep the chicken juicy and tender.
- Don’t skip the smoked paprika for authentic smoky flavor.
- Cook chorizo first to render flavorful fat that seasons the dish.
- Fresh citrus juice balances the richness perfectly.
- Adjust spice levels by adding jalapeños or cayenne gradually.
- Serve with warm corn tortillas, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days.
- Freeze cooked portions for up to 2 months, thaw overnight before reheating gently.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg