Pollo Guisado: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe You’ll Love!
Pollo guisado is a heartwarming dish that wraps you in a cozy embrace with every bite! Imagine tender chicken simmered to perfection in a rich, savory sauce, bursting with vibrant flavors from bell peppers, onions, and garlic. This delightful stew is infused with aromatic spices and a splash of zesty lime juice, creating a symphony of taste that dances on your palate. Serve it over fluffy rice or with warm tortillas, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a warm hug. Dive into this comforting classic and let the flavors transport you home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights.
- Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up anytime.
- Rich, savory flavors that will have you coming back for seconds.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies for a personal touch.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any!
pollo guisado
Ingredients
Method
- Collect chicken pieces, bell peppers, onions, garlic, tomatoes, chicken broth, olives, and spices.
- In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder. Rub this mixture all over the chicken pieces.
- In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the pot. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, letting all the flavors mingle.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Stir in olives and adjust seasoning if needed. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve your pollo guisado hot over rice or with warm tortillas. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 25g |
Table of Contents
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | Latin American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 1 hour |
| Total Time: | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free |
| Serves: | 4-6 people |
| Best Served: | With rice and avocado |
Ingredients
- Pollo (Chicken) – The star of the dish; use bone-in pieces for more flavor.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing; adds richness and depth to the dish.
- Onion – Provides a sweet and savory base; chop finely for even cooking.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor; use fresh cloves for the best taste.
- Bell Peppers – Adds color and sweetness; any variety works well.
- Tomatoes – Fresh or canned; they create a delicious sauce.
- Chicken Broth – Use low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
- Carrots – Adds sweetness and texture; slice them evenly for consistent cooking.
- Potatoes – Hearty addition; they soak up the flavors beautifully.
- Bay Leaves – Infuses a subtle aroma; remember to remove them before serving.
- Cilantro – Fresh herb for garnish; adds brightness to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to taste.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to create a delicious pollo guisado that will warm your heart and fill your belly!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect chicken pieces, bell peppers, onions, garlic, tomatoes, chicken broth, olives, and spices.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder. Rub this mixture all over the chicken pieces.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
Step 4: Brown the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken to the pot. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, letting all the flavors mingle.
Step 6: Let it Simmer
Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step 7: Add Olives and Final Seasoning
Stir in olives and adjust seasoning if needed. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your pollo guisado hot over rice or with warm tortillas. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor and tenderness.
- Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper seasoning.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness and balance.
- Incorporate a variety of vegetables for added nutrition and color.
- Let the dish rest before serving to enhance the flavors.
How to Serve
- Serve with fluffy white rice for a classic pairing.
- Pair with warm tortillas for a fun, hands-on meal.
- Add a side of black beans for extra protein and flavor.
- Top with fresh avocado slices for a creamy contrast.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a refreshing balance.
- Offer lime wedges for a zesty kick.
- Enjoy with sweet plantains for a delightful sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing leftovers properly ensures your pollo guisado stays delicious for later enjoyment.
Storing Leftovers
• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
• Portion the pollo guisado into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of chicken broth for moisture if needed.
• Ensure it’s heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
FAQs
What is pollo guisado?
Pollo guisado is a traditional Latin American chicken stew, known for its rich flavors and comforting qualities. It’s made with chicken, vegetables, and a variety of spices, simmered together to create a delicious and hearty dish.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice for pollo guisado as they tend to be more flavorful and tender. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What can I serve with pollo guisado?
Pollo guisado pairs wonderfully with rice, beans, or even mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a side of avocado or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How can I make pollo guisado spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the stew. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who like it extra spicy!
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your new favorite comfort food, pollo guisado! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. So gather your loved ones, savor each bite, and let the rich flavors transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with laughter and love. Enjoy the simplicity and joy of cooking this delightful recipe—you’ll be glad you did!
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