POLLO GUISADO

Pollo Guisado (Dominican & Puerto Rican Chicken Stew)

Pollo Guisado is a comforting one-pot chicken stew that is popular in both the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. This hearty dish is made with homemade Sofrito, Puerto Rican-style Adobo seasoning, and Sazon, creating a rich, flavorful gravy that’s perfect for serving with rice. It is an easy weeknight meal packed with authentic Caribbean flavors.

Ingredients for the Sofrito

• ½ onion
• ½ green bell pepper
• ½ bunch cilantro (including the stems)
• 5–6 garlic cloves, peeled
• 3–4 green chilies

Instructions for the Sofrito

1. Blend all the ingredients together, adding only a small amount of water if required, until smooth.

Ingredients for Puerto Rican Style Adobo Seasoning

• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1½ tsp cumin powder
• 2 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 tsp oregano
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1–2 tbsp salt

Other Ingredients

• 2–4 lbs chicken, cut into pieces (breast pieces used here)
• 1 potato, peeled and cut into chunks
• ½ carrot, cut into cubes
• 1–2 green chilies
• 2–3 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ chicken cube or chicken stock
• Goya Sazon (Achiote powder can be used as a substitute)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Season the chicken with the homemade Adobo seasoning.
2. Heat 1–2 tbsp oil in a large pot.
3. Add the chicken and fry for 3–4 minutes until lightly browned.
4. Remove the chicken and set aside.
5. In the same pot, add ½ cup of the prepared Sofrito.
6. Cook for a few minutes until fragrant.
7. Add the tomato paste and cook for another few minutes.
8. Add the chicken cube, Goya Sazon (or Achiote powder), salt, black pepper, and 1 tsp Adobo seasoning.
9. Return the chicken to the pot.
10. Add the potato chunks.
11. Add the green chilies.
12. Pour in enough water to cover the chicken and vegetables.
13. Cover and cook over low heat for 20–25 minutes until the chicken is tender, the vegetables are cooked, and the sauce has slightly thickened.
14. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
15. Your delicious Puerto Rican Chicken Stew is ready.
16. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.