There’s something magical about the aroma of pollo guisado wafting through the kitchen. Picture this: tender chicken, simmering in a rich, savory sauce that dances with spices and herbs. Each bite is an explosion of flavor, transporting you to a cozy family gathering or a lively fiesta. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends. They walked in, noses twitching with curiosity, and by the time dinner was served, they were practically drooling. Pollo guisado can turn an ordinary evening into an unforgettable culinary adventure. Get ready to savor every moment!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The perfect blend of spices makes pollo guisado a flavor-packed delight that everyone will love
- It’s easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort for maximum taste
- The vibrant colors and aromatic scents create an appealing presentation on your table
- This dish is versatile enough to fit any meal occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings
Sharing pollo guisado with my family always brings smiles and happy memories to the table.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Bone-in Chicken Thighs: These pieces offer rich flavor and moisture; boneless cuts will work too if you prefer.
Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for maximum flavor impact; don’t skimp on garlic—it makes everything better!
Onions: Sautéed onions add sweetness; yellow onions are my go-to for their balance of flavor.
Bell Peppers: Use colorful bell peppers for visual appeal; they add crunch and sweetness to the dish.
Canned Tomatoes: Choose diced tomatoes for convenience; they provide acidity and depth to the sauce.
Chicken Broth: Homemade if possible, but store-bought works just fine; it enhances the overall flavor profile.
Spices (Cumin, Oregano): Essential for seasoning; these spices elevate the dish with earthy warmth.
Olive Oil: For sautéing your ingredients; it adds richness without overpowering other flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by washing and chopping your vegetables—onions and bell peppers should be diced finely while garlic can be minced for more flavor.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot until shimmering. Add chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until golden brown—about 5-7 minutes each side—then remove them from the pot.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, toss in diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté until softened—around 4-5 minutes—then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add Tomato Goodness: Stir in canned tomatoes along with their juices; let them simmer briefly before returning seared chicken to the pot.
Pour in Broth and Spices : Add chicken broth along with cumin and oregano. Bring it all to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low; cover and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes.
Finish It Up!: Check the seasoning—adjust salt and pepper as needed—and let it simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes so flavors can meld beautifully together.
Now you have a delightful pollo guisado ready to serve! Pair it with rice or tortillas for a complete meal that your family will rave about. Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- Pollo guisado is a heavenly dish that brings warmth to your kitchen
- The aroma of simmering spices and tender chicken makes it irresistible
- This dish not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart, making it perfect for family gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in flavor, then add vegetables and broth for a rich sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the chicken for beef or add beans for a hearty twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat gently on low heat to retain flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor and juiciness; adding fresh herbs enhances brightness and aroma
- Keep the lid on while simmering to create a flavorful steam bath for maximum tenderness
Sharing my first attempt at pollo guisado brings a smile; I accidentally added cinnamon instead of cumin, and it turned out surprisingly delicious!
FAQ
What can I serve with pollo guisado?
Rice or warm tortillas complement this dish perfectly, soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Can I make pollo guisado ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better the next day as flavors meld during storage!
Is pollo guisado spicy?
The spice level is mild; adjust seasonings to suit your taste preference easily!
Pollo Guisado
Pollo guisado is a flavorful chicken stew that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Tender chicken thighs simmer in a rich sauce infused with garlic, onions, and spices, creating an aromatic dish that evokes family gatherings and festive celebrations. Perfectly paired with rice or warm tortillas, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by washing and chopping the vegetables.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown; remove from the pot.
- In the same pot, sauté onions and bell peppers for 4-5 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes with their juices, then return the seared chicken to the pot.
- Add chicken broth, cumin, and oregano; bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper; simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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