Chicken In Green Sauce-Guatemala(Jocon)
Guatemalan Chicken In Green Sauce (Jocon) features tender chicken simmered in a vibrant, herby green sauce made from cilantro, tomatillos, green onions, and toasted seeds. Rich and flavorful, it pairs beautifully with rice and is perfect for those who enjoy bold, fresh Latin American flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chicken in water with salt in a covered pot for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is soft.
- Remove chicken and set aside. Save the broth.
- Soak tortillas in the broth.
- Toast sesame seeds and squash seeds in a skillet until lightly browned.
- Grind toasted seeds in a food processor, then add cilantro, green onions, hot chiles, tomatillos, and 1 cup of broth; process into a smooth paste.
- Drain tortillas and add them to the food processor; blend into a smooth paste.
- Brown the chicken in a lightly oiled pan for 5 minutes over medium heat.
- Add the green sauce paste and remaining broth (about 2 cups) to the pan with chicken.
- Simmer over low heat for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens and turns a rich green color.
- Serve hot over rice if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice, garlic, and spices before cooking. If you can't find tomatillos, try using green tomatoes or a mix of green bell peppers and lime juice. To add extra depth, consider incorporating roasted poblano peppers into the sauce. Remember to adjust the heat level by varying the number of hot green chiles used.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant Chicken in Green Sauce over fluffy white rice or alongside warm corn tortillas for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Arroz Con Pollo (Rice With Chicken) for a hearty feast. For a refreshing contrast, consider a side salad or sautéed vegetables to balance the rich flavors of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; defrost in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken In Green Sauce-Guatemala(Jocon) contains roughly 1515 calories, with 78g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 125g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (156% of the Daily Value), iron (119% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1230mg per serving (53% 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 other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for added flavor. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Bone-in cuts may take a little longer to become tender, so monitor the cooking process closely.
What can I substitute for cilantro if I don't like it?
If you're not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or basil can be used as a substitute. While they will change the flavor profile slightly, they will still provide a fresh herbaceous note to the sauce. You could also use a combination of both for a unique twist.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
To elevate the heat in the green sauce, consider adding more hot green chiles or a splash of your favorite hot sauce. You can also include diced jalapeños or serrano peppers in the paste for an extra kick. Just remember to taste as you go to avoid overpowering the dish.
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).