pollo guisado invites you to savor a homey stew where succulent chicken morsels mingle with tender potatoes, sweet carrots, and bell peppers in a vibrant tomato-garlic base. Imagine cozy Sunday afternoons, laughter echoing as you stir in fragrant cumin, smoky paprika, and a splash of apple cider vinegar to brighten each bite. A teaspoon of honey teases out natural sweetness, while fresh cilantro and scallions crown every spoonful with a burst of color and zing. Whether shared family-style or savored solo, this playful, soul-warming dish proves that simple ingredients and a pinch of love can transform weeknight dinners into unforgettable feasts.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This pollo guisado
- It’s a comforting dish that warms your soul.
- Packed with vibrant flavors that dance on your palate.
- Easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Versatile; customize with your favorite veggies.
- Great for meal prep; tastes even better the next day!

pollo guisado
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Heat the Oil – Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Let it warm up nicely.
- Step 2: SautĂ© Onion and Garlic – Add onion and garlic; sautĂ© until translucent. The aroma will be delightful!
- Step 3: Brown the Chicken – Add chicken pieces and brown on all sides. This adds a lovely flavor.
- Step 4: Add the Flavor – Stir in tomato sauce, bell pepper, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together!
- Step 5: Pour in Chicken Broth – Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Let those flavors mingle!
- Step 6: Add Vegetables – Add potatoes and carrot, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes until vegetables and chicken are tender.
- Step 7: Garnish and Serve – Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious pollo guisado!
Notes
Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 350 |
Fat | 15g |
Protein | 30g |
Carbs | 25g |
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious pollo guisado that will impress your family and friends!

- 1 kg chicken pieces – your choice of chicken cuts
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil – for cooking
- 1 onion – chopped
- 3 garlic cloves – minced
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce – adds richness
- 1 bell pepper – chopped
- 2 potatoes – peeled and chopped
- 1 carrot – sliced
- 1 tsp dried oregano – for flavor
- 1 tsp ground cumin – adds warmth
- 1 cup chicken broth – for depth of flavor
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Fresh cilantro – for garnish
How to Make Pollo Guisado
Get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade pollo guisado! This comforting dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, making it perfect for a cozy dinner. Let’s dive into the steps!

Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Let it warm up nicely.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent. The aroma will be delightful!
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Add chicken pieces and brown on all sides. This adds a lovely flavor.
Step 4: Add the Flavor
Stir in tomato sauce, bell pepper, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together!
Step 5: Pour in Chicken Broth
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Let those flavors mingle!
Step 6: Add Vegetables
Add potatoes and carrot, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes until vegetables and chicken are tender.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious pollo guisado!
Recipe Snapshot
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Category | Main Course |
Cuisine | Latin American |
Prep Time | 15 minutes |
Cook Time | 30 minutes |
Extra Time | 0 minutes |
Total Time | 45 minutes |
Dietary | Not specified |
Serves | 4 |
Best Served | Hot with fresh cilantro garnish! |
Pro Tips for Making pollo guisado
- Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
- Use fresh herbs like cilantro for a vibrant finish.
- Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness.
- Let it simmer longer for tender, juicy chicken.
- Serve with warm tortillas for a comforting touch.
How to Serve this pollo guisado
- Serve with fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Pair with warm tortillas for a delightful wrap.
- Add a side of black beans for extra protein and flavor.
- Top with fresh avocado slices for a creamy contrast.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges for a zesty kick.
- Enjoy with a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and enjoying your pollo guisado later is easy!
Storing Leftovers
- Let the pollo guisado cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
- Cool the dish completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add a splash of chicken broth or water if it seems dry.
- Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What ingredients are in pollo guisado?
Pollo guisado typically includes bone-in chicken, potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and tomatoes. It’s seasoned with cumin, paprika, oregano, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness. A bit of honey adds natural sweetness, and the dish is finished with fresh cilantro and scallions for a burst of flavor.
2. How do I thicken my pollo guisado?
To thicken your pollo guisado, let it simmer uncovered so the liquid reduces. You can also mash a few of the potatoes or add a spoonful of tomato paste. If needed, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and simmer until the sauce thickens.
3. What does pollo guisado mean in Spanish?
Pollo guisado means “stewed chicken” in Spanish. It refers to chicken that’s slow-cooked in a flavorful broth with vegetables and seasonings until tender.
4. Why is my pollo guisado watery?
Your pollo guisado might be watery if too much liquid was added or if it wasn’t simmered long enough. Make sure to cook it uncovered toward the end to let excess liquid evaporate. Also, avoid overloading the pot with vegetables that release lots of water, like tomatoes or zucchini.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got the scoop on making delicious pollo guisado, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and dive in! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Enjoy the simple pleasure of cooking and savor every bite. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you!