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Pollo Guisado Recipe

Pollo Guisado Recipe - Cheap Delicious Meals

Growing up, pollo guisado filled my kitchen with memories. It's that magical meal that feels like a comforting hug after a long day. The dish, rich with spices and tender chicken, serves not just as a meal but as a tradition passed through generations. 
What I love about pollo guisado is its incredible depth of flavor combined with its straightforward preparation. It's a rustic dish that welcomes everyone at the table.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Rest Time 12 hours
Total Time 13 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 451
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken, cut into 10 parts about 3 to 3 1/2 pounds
  • 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
  • 1 of Juice lime
  • 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and finely sliced
  • 2 dried bay leaves
  • 2 packets sazón con achiote and cilantro 3 teaspoons
  • 2 teaspoons adobo with black pepper
  • 3 russet 3 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

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. Deglaze the pot with the chicken broth and lime juice. This is where all that flavor combines.
Step 6: Add Veggies and Chicken
  1. Return the chicken to the pot, along with potatoes, carrots, olives, and capers. Bring the concoction to a simmer.
Step 7: Simmer Away
  1. 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
  1. Taste and adjust with more salt, a splash of vinegar, and brown sugar to balance the flavors.
Step 9: Final Touch
  1. 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.