Pollo Guisado Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Before diving into the delicious world of pollo guisado, let’s talk about what pairs well with this hearty dish. A well-balanced meal can elevate the whole experience, making each bite more enjoyable. 

One great pairing is steamed jasmine rice, which acts as a neutral base that soaks up the savory sauce, complementing the rich flavors of the guisado beautifully.

Tostones, or fried green plantains, offer a delightful crunch on the outside with a tender inside. They provide a wonderful textural contrast to the softness of the chicken and add an extra layer of flavor to the meal. 

For a light and refreshing side, avocado salad is a perfect choice. The creaminess of avocado, mixed with lime and tomatoes, cools down the spices and adds a fresh element to the plate.

Lastly, cornbread is an excellent, though slightly unconventional, pairing. Its slightly sweet flavor balances out the savory, rich sauce of the pollo guisado, and it’s perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce. 

These sides create a well-rounded meal that enhances the hearty goodness of pollo guisado.

What is Pollo Guisado?

Pollo guisado, or stewed chicken, hails from Latin America and the Caribbean, particularly popular in Puerto Rican cuisine. 

This dish usually consists of chicken pieces cooked slowly in a savory sauce made from tomatoes, herbs, and spices. The result? Tender chicken coated in a flavorful sauce that’s perfect for any occasion.

What Does It Taste Like?

Imagine the first bite of tender chicken melting in your mouth, surrounded by rich, savory flavors reminiscent of home-cooked goodness. Think about the balance of spices, with hints of oregano and lime intermingling in your senses. 

The sweetness from the carrots and the earthy potatoes provide an amazing contrast to the savory elements. This dish delivers not just heat but heart.

Why This Recipe Works

Simple Ingredients: You can create an extraordinary meal using common pantry items and fresh produce. This recipe doesn’t break the bank.

Flavor Depth: With ingredients like garlic, traditional sazón, and lime juice, the flavor profile is rich and complex yet approachable for novice cooks.

Versatile Cooking Method: You can make pollo guisado on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or even in your Instant Pot, making it adaptable for any kitchen setup.

Crowd-Worthy Presentation: Serve it in a bright bowl with fresh herbs on top, and you have a dish that looks as good as it tastes, perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients for Pollo Guisado

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3 to 3 1/2 pounds), cut into 10 parts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
• 1 tablespoon sea salt
• 2 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
• 2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns
• Juice of 1 lime
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and finely sliced
• 2 dried bay leaves
• 2 packets (3 teaspoons) sazón con achiote and cilantro
• 2 teaspoons adobo with black pepper
• 3 russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
• 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1/2 cup recaito or sofrito
• 1 small can tomato paste
• 8 green olives stuffed with pimentos
• 2 teaspoons capers
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro or parsley
• Steamed jasmine rice, for serving
• 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Make sure your chicken is cut into even pieces. This ensures even cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels. Season with sea salt and both types of seasoning.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, browning them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. This step builds flavor through caramelization.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same pot, add minced garlic and sliced onions. Sauté until softened, about 4 minutes.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

To the aromatic mixture, add the tomato paste, recaito, and all the spices (including oregano, bay leaves, and peppercorns). Stir persistently for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Bring in the Broth

Deglaze the pot with the chicken broth and lime juice. This is where all that flavor combines.

Step 6: Add Veggies and Chicken

Return the chicken to the pot, along with potatoes, carrots, olives, and capers. Bring the concoction to a simmer.

Step 7: Simmer Away

Cover the pot and let it simmer for roughly 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Step 8: Adjust Seasoning

Taste and adjust with more salt, a splash of vinegar, and brown sugar to balance the flavors.

Step 9: Final Touch

Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Notes

• Don’t skip the browning: This step is essential for flavor.
  
• Use a heavy-bottomed pot: It helps distribute heat evenly.
  
• Feel free to substitute chicken parts: Thighs and drumsticks work beautifully.
  
• Let it rest after cooking: This helps meld the flavors together.
  
• Make it a day ahead: Flavor intensifies after resting in the fridge.
  

How to Store the Leftovers?

First off, if you have any leftovers (which may not happen!), allow the pollo guisado to cool down. You can store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 

For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on low heat and add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Sides for Pollo Guisado

Now, let’s explore sides that sing alongside your pollo guisado. Here are a few that truly complete the meal:

• Cooking Green Beans: Sauteé them in olive oil with minced garlic. The crunch of fresh green beans adds a vibrant touch.
  
• Mango Salsa: The sweetness of ripe mango complements the savory notes of the guisado. Toss diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice for a fresh addition.
  
• Fried Rice: Stir in leftover grains with carrots and peas for a unique twist. This approach adds texture and makes the meal more filling.
  
• Mixed Bean Salad: Beans provide protein and fiber. Dressing them in a simple lime vinaigrette can bring a refreshing balance to the dish.
  

Alternative Choices for Ingredients

Running low on some ingredients? Consider these substitute options:

• Chicken: If you have a rotisserie chicken available, you can use it, just omit the initial cooking steps.
  
• Potatoes: Sweet potatoes or butternut squash can provide a different flavor profile.
  
• Sofrito: If you don’t have it, a mixture of garlic, onions, and bell peppers sautéed with oil will work just as well.
  
• Green Olives: If you’re not a fan, try using chopped pickles for a similar briny punch.
  

Conclusion

Pollo guisado stands as a testament to the power of home cooking. With its straightforward ingredients and cooking method, this dish delivers joy in every bite. 

Whether serving it for a family gathering or a cozy night in, the deep flavors will surely steal the show. 

So go on, grab your apron, and channel that culinary spirit. Your family and friends will thank you, and you may just find yourself crowned as the official pollo guisado chef in your home.

You’ll also like the following recipes!

• Garlic Bread
• Chicken Alfredo Recipe
• Creamy Pesto Chicken