Cuban Chicken Fricassee(Fricase De Pollo Cubano)
A hearty Cuban chicken fricassee featuring tender chicken, savory sofrito, olives, potatoes, and peas, perfect for comforting family dinners with bold, Latin flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the chicken and remove the skin if you like.
- Option 1: Brown the chicken pieces in oil, then add the sofrito and water and cook until tender.
- Option 2: For a quicker version, cook the chicken directly in the sofrito and water without browning.
- Add quartered potatoes, green olives, and cook until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the baby sweet peas and thinly sliced pimentos before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, brown the chicken pieces before adding the sofrito and water; this enhances the overall taste. If you're short on time, skip browning and cook the chicken directly in the sofrito. You can substitute the green olives with capers for a different tang, or use frozen peas instead of canned if fresh ones are unavailable. Consider adding some spices like cumin or bay leaves for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is traditionally served with white rice, which helps soak up the delicious sauce. Consider pairing it with a simple side salad or fried plantains for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Rice With Onion And Bay Leaf. If you're hosting, serve with crusty bread to mop up the sauce, making it a comforting, hearty choice.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cuban Chicken Fricassee can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cuban Chicken Fricassee(Fricase De Pollo Cubano) contains roughly 158 calories, with 5g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of potassium (11% 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 boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time as boneless pieces will cook faster. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking. The flavor will still be delicious, but bone-in chicken provides a richer taste and texture.
What can I serve with Cuban Chicken Fricassee?
Traditional accompaniments include white rice or yellow rice, which complements the flavors well. You can also serve it with fried plantains or a green salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier side, consider making a batch of 'Lite' Jambalaya or serving with crusty bread.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your Cuban Chicken Fricassee, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the sofrito. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick. Adjust the spice level according to your preference.
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).