Table of Contents
Introduction
Pollo guisado recipe or Latin-style stewed chicken, is a comforting one-pot dish that brings together tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a rich tomato-based sauce. This Puerto Rican chicken stew (also called pollo con papas when made with potatoes) is a staple in many Latin American households, with each region adding its unique twist.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional stovetop version, an easy Crock Pot Pollo Guisado, or a quick Instant Pot adaptation, this recipe is flexible and foolproof. Serve it over rice, with beans, or alongside fried plantains for a complete meal that’s packed with flavor.
What Is Pollo Guisado?
Pollo Guisado (Spanish for “stewed chicken”) is a slow-cooked chicken dish simmered in a savory sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, bell peppers, and Latin spices. It’s a hearty, rustic stew that varies slightly depending on the country:
- Puerto Rican Pollo Guisado – Often includes sofrito, potatoes, and olives for a rich, slightly tangy flavor.
- Dominican Pollo Guisado – Features cilantro, vinegar, and sometimes capers for brightness.
- Mexican Pollo Guisado – May incorporate dried chilies, corn, or zucchini for extra texture.
No matter the variation, the result is always tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken in a deeply flavorful sauce.
A Basic Pollo Guisado Recipe (with Countless Variations)
Ingredients
*(Serves 4-6)*
- 3 lbs chicken thighs & drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tomato, diced (or ½ cup tomato sauce)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro or culantro (recao)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 2 potatoes, cubed (optional, for pollo con papas)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika or sazón
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp lime juice or vinegar (optional for brightness)
Instructions
- Season & Sear the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry and season generously with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Brown the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, then remove and set aside.
- Build the Flavor Base
- In the same pot, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened (~3 minutes).
- Stir in tomato, tomato paste, and cilantro, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Simmer the Stew
- Return the chicken to the pot and add chicken broth, bay leaves, and potatoes (if using).
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
- Finish & Serve
- Remove bay leaves, stir in lime juice or vinegar (if using), and adjust seasoning.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice, beans, or tostones.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Pollo Guisado
✅ Sear the chicken well – Browning adds depth of flavor.
✅ Use bone-in, skin-on chicken – Thighs and drumsticks stay juicier.
✅ Simmer gently – Avoid boiling to keep the chicken tender.
✅ Let it rest – The flavors deepen if left to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving.
✅ Make it ahead – Like many stews, Pollo Guisado tastes even better the next day!
Swaps and Substitutions
- No potatoes? Try carrots, yuca, or plantains instead.
- Out of fresh tomatoes? Use canned diced tomatoes or tomato sauce.
- Want more heat? Add jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce.
- Slow cooker option? Turn this into a Crock Pot Pollo Guisado by cooking on Low for 6-7 hours.
- Instant Pot shortcut? Pressure cook for 15 minutes with a natural release.
What to Serve With Pollo Guisado
This chicken stew in Spanish pairs perfectly with the following:
Classic Sides
- White rice or arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas)
- Stewed beans (habichuelas guisadas)
- Tostones (fried green plantains) or maduros (sweet plantains)
Extra Toppings & Garnishes
- Avocado slices
- Fresh lime wedges
- Pickled onions or hot sauce
Final Thoughts
Whether you stick to the traditional Puerto Rican chicken stew or experiment with your variations, Pollo Guisado is a versatile, comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
- Try it tonight and enjoy a taste of Latin comfort food at its best! 🍗🔥