Chicken Havana
A flavorful chicken dish with sweet raisins, tangy vinegar, and spicy green chilies, perfect for those who enjoy a balance of sweet and savory flavors with a touch of heat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the raisins with white wine vinegar and set aside.
- Heat salad oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the cut-up chicken pieces and brown on all sides, about 10 minutes.
- Add the diced cooked ham to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes and green chili strips.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in the raisin and vinegar mixture and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the vinegar and raisins mixture for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have golden raisins, regular raisins or dried apricots can be used as substitutes. For a bit of heat, add chopped jalapeños along with the green chilies. Be sure to check the chicken for doneness with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Havana with a side of rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh salad, such as a simple green salad with Margarita Sesame Salad Dressing, complements the dish well. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with crusty bread or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat, covering it to retain moisture, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. For best texture, avoid reheating more than once.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Havana contains roughly 2047 calories, with 2g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 199g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value), potassium (14% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1943mg per serving (84% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of a whole fryer chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Is there a vegetarian version of Chicken Havana?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of meat-based options. This way, you can create a delicious vegan version of this dish.
What can I serve with Chicken Havana?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as steamed vegetables or a light fruit salad. For a refreshing contrast, serve it alongside Fruit Cups or a simple grain-based salad.
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).