Chicken Cilantro (Pollo Al Cilantro)
A flavorful chicken dish featuring fresh cilantro, cooked with onions and garlic in butter and oil, perfect for a quick and aromatic meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook onion and garlic in butter and oil until fragrant and translucent.
- Add chicken pieces, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Cook over medium heat until the chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in cilantro before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider marinating the chicken in lime juice and extra cilantro before cooking. If you don't have fresh cilantro, parsley can be a substitute, though the flavor will differ. To enhance the dish, try adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder for a subtle kick. This recipe can also be doubled for larger gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Cilantro over fluffy rice or alongside warm tortillas for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes such as Chicken Chalupas(Little Boats) or a fresh salad. Consider garnishing with additional cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Cilantro (Pollo Al Cilantro) contains roughly 247 calories, with 14g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (83% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1822mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are preferred for this recipe for quick cooking, you can use bone-in pieces. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I serve with Chicken Cilantro?
This dish pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it with Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh corn salad. You might also add fresh guacamole or salsa for an extra layer of flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to a day before cooking. Just be sure to add the cilantro just before serving to maintain its vibrant flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).