Pollo Guisado is a staple in Dominican kitchens and a dish that has long been a favorite for its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. Growing up between the Dominican Republic and the U.S., one of the things I always looked forward to when returning to the island was enjoying a delicious plate of Pollo Guisado. It’s a dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and a true taste of home.
Let’s dive into how you can prepare an authentic version of this savory Dominican chicken stew.
Ingredients:
- 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 lime (for cleaning the chicken)
- 2 tablespoons of vinegar or the juice of 1 lime
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground oregano
- 1 teaspoon adobo seasoning (or salt, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 chicken bouillon cube (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (a handful)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon of sugar (optional, to caramelize)
- 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
Instructions:
- Clean the Chicken: In traditional Dominican cooking, cleaning the chicken is key. Rub the chicken pieces with lime or vinegar, then rinse them in water. This step not only cleans the chicken but also adds a layer of freshness to the meat.
- Season the Chicken: After cleaning, season the chicken with adobo or salt, black pepper, oregano, and garlic. For best results, let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, but even 30 minutes will do if you’re short on time.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, sprinkle a small amount of sugar (optional) into the oil. The sugar helps to brown and caramelize the chicken, giving it a deeper flavor. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. The goal here is to lock in the flavor and give the chicken some color.
- Cook the Vegetables: Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onion, bell peppers, tomatoes, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables for about 3-5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
- Combine Everything: Return the chicken to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Add the tomato paste, bay leaf, and fresh cilantro. If you’re using a chicken bouillon cube, crumble it into the pot at this point for an extra flavor boost. Pour in about 1/2 cup of water or chicken broth to create a flavorful sauce.
- Simmer: Cover the pot and let the chicken stew on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken will absorb all the rich flavors from the vegetables and spices. The liquid should reduce slightly, creating a thick, flavorful sauce. If you find the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more water or broth.
- Serve: Once the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, your Pollo Guisado is ready! Traditionally, this dish is served with white rice, beans, and fried plantains (tostones or maduros). The combination of flavors and textures makes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
Pollo Guisado is more than just a meal; it’s a piece of Dominican culture and a symbol of home. It’s a dish that’s incredibly versatile, as you can tweak it based on the ingredients you have on hand or adjust the spices to your taste. What makes it stand out is the depth of flavor you get from such a simple preparation. The chicken becomes incredibly tender, and the sauce—infused with vegetables, garlic, and fresh herbs—is the perfect complement to the savory meat.
Whenever I make this dish, I’m transported back to those moments of stepping off the plane in the Dominican Republic, knowing that a warm, comforting meal was waiting for me. It’s the perfect dish to share with family and friends, and it’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to try something new or bring a taste of the Dominican Republic into your home, Pollo Guisado is an excellent choice. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to please a crowd. So gather your ingredients, take your time with the preparation, and enjoy this classic Dominican dish!