Description
This classic Dominican Stewed Chicken, known as Pollo Guisado, features juicy chicken pieces simmered in a flavorful blend of herbs, peppers, onions, and spices. Enhanced with soy sauce, lime juice, and olives, the dish combines vibrant Caribbean flavors for a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect served over rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 whole chicken or combination of dark and white pieces
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp ground oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp soy sauce
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1/2 green pepper, sliced
- 1/2 red pepper, sliced
- 1/2 large red onion, sliced
Additional Ingredients
- 1 tbsp granulated white sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 tsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Mazanillo olives, chopped
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro, divided in half
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Clean and cut the chicken into serving pieces if using a whole chicken. Marinate the chicken with the lime juice, salt, ground oregano, black pepper, and soy sauce. Let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot or deep skillet on medium heat, add a little oil and sauté the sliced green and red peppers along with sliced red onion until they become soft and fragrant.
- Add Chicken to Pot: Place the marinated chicken pieces into the pot with the sautéed vegetables, stirring to combine and lightly brown the chicken on all sides for about 5 minutes.
- Incorporate Flavorings: Stir in the granulated white sugar, water, and tomato paste. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer the Chicken: Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let the chicken stew gently for about 30-40 minutes until fully cooked and tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
- Add Olives and Cilantro: About 5 minutes before the end of cooking, add the chopped Mazanillo olives and half of the chopped cilantro. Stir well and allow flavors to meld.
- Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. Sprinkle the remaining chopped cilantro on top for garnish. Serve the Pollo Guisado hot, ideally over white rice or your preferred side dish.
Notes
- The use of lime juice in the marinade helps tenderize the chicken and adds a bright citrus flavor.
- Mazanillo olives add a distinctive salty and slightly tangy taste, but you can substitute with green olives if necessary.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the size and cut of the chicken pieces; ensure chicken is cooked through before serving.
- You can add a small amount of oil for sautéing if preferred, traditionally vegetable or olive oil is used.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, tostones, or a simple salad to balance flavors.
Keywords: Dominican chicken stew, Pollo Guisado, Caribbean chicken recipe, stewed chicken, traditional Dominican food