Savory Pollo Guisado: A Comforting Chicken Delight

Pollo guisado, a dish that seems to wrap you in a warm embrace with every bite, is the ultimate comfort food. Imagine tender chicken simmered in a rich, savory sauce that dances with bold spices and fresh herbs. The aroma wafts through your home, teasing your senses and making your stomach rumble like a lion at feeding time.

Let me take you back to a Sunday family gathering where my abuela whipped up her famous pollo guisado. The whole house smelled like love and happiness, igniting memories I cherish to this day. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, pollo guisado promises to steal the show on any table.

I remember my friend Sarah’s eyes widening in delight when she first tasted my pollo guisado; it was one of those moments where food transcended mere nourishment.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are juicier than breasts and soak up flavors beautifully; choose ones that look fresh and plump.

• Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness; make sure it’s firm for the best texture.

• Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colors—red, green, and yellow—for sweetness and visual appeal.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide an aromatic kick; avoid pre-minced varieties for better flavor.

• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for crushed tomatoes for easier blending into the sauce; they add depth and moisture.

• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth enhances flavor without overpowering; it’s essential for cooking the chicken evenly.

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing to enrich the dish with healthy fats.

• Spices: Cumin, Oregano, Paprika: These spices add warmth and complexity—don’t skimp on them!

• Fresh Cilantro (optional): A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds freshness right before serving; it’s optional but highly recommended.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté Aromatics : Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté until they soften and become fragrant.

Add Garlic : Toss in minced garlic once the veggies are tender. Stir constantly until the garlic turns golden brown—this usually takes about 1 minute.

Brown the Chicken : Add chicken thighs to the pot, searing them until each side is golden brown. This should take about 5 minutes per side; resist stirring too much!

Add Tomatoes & Broth : Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth while scraping up any tasty browned bits stuck at the bottom of the pot—you want all that flavor!

Add Spices & Simmer : Sprinkle cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper into the mix. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Cover and let simmer for at least 30 minutes.

Check & Serve : After 30 minutes, check if your chicken is cooked through—it should be fork-tender! Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread for maximum enjoyment.

This pollo guisado recipe not only fills your belly but also warms your heart with each delightful bite! Don’t forget to share this comforting dish with friends or family who need a little extra love in their lives!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the chicken to seal in flavor, then sauté onions and garlic before adding spices and broth for depth.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add vegetables like bell peppers to enhance the dish’s nutritional value and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Sharing family recipes often leads to delightful surprises, like when my cousin declared this pollo guisado was better than his mother’s!

FAQ

What is pollo guisado?

Pollo guisado is a traditional Latin American chicken stew rich in flavors and spices.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes, beef or pork can also be used for delicious variations on pollo guisado.

How long does it take to cook pollo guisado?

Cooking pollo guisado typically takes about 1.5 hours from start to finish.

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Pollo Guisado

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Pollo guisado, a heartwarming chicken stew, envelops you in comfort with its tender meat and aromatic spices. This dish is perfect for any occasion, filling your home with enticing smells that beckon everyone to the table. With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, pollo guisado is sure to become a family favorite, offering versatility to adapt ingredients based on what’s available in your pantry. Experience the joy of cooking this classic recipe that delivers wholesome goodness and cherished memories with every bite.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Latin American

Ingredients

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• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook until golden brown, about 1 minute.
3. Add chicken thighs to the pot and sear each side until golden brown (about 5 minutes per side).
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth while scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Stir in spices: cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes or until chicken is fork-tender.
7. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 95mg