Pollo Al Chilindron
Pollo Al Chilindron is a flavorful Spanish chicken dish featuring tender chicken, ham, peppers, and tomatoes, offering a rich, savory taste perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 (3 to 4 lb.) chicken, cut up ⓘ
- 1 cup ham cubes ⓘ
- 1 large sweet green pepper, cut in strips ⓘ
- 1 large sweet red pepper, cut in strips ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, chopped fine ⓘ
- 1 large or 2 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped ⓘ
- 1 to 2 cloves garlic, minced
- salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil or oregano, minced (optional) ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons olive oil ⓘ
Instructions
- Dredge chicken pieces in flour seasoned with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet and add minced garlic; cook until browned, then remove garlic.
- Add chicken to the skillet and brown on all sides.
- Add ham cubes and chopped onion to the skillet; cook until onion is golden.
- Add the sliced green and red peppers; cook over medium to low heat until tender.
- Add peeled, chopped tomatoes; cook over low heat until the chicken is cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked ham cubes instead of regular. If you prefer a spicier dish, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also substitute the chicken with bone-in thighs or drumsticks for a juicier result. Adjust the herbs to your taste; fresh basil or oregano can elevate the dish significantly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pollo Al Chilindron with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables can complement the meal nicely. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with a dish like Crunchy Tuna Casserole, creating a balanced dinner spread that appeals to all.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to maintain moisture. You can also microwave it, covered, in short intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pollo Al Chilindron contains roughly 263 calories, with 10g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (92% of the Daily Value), calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1608mg per serving (70% 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, you can use boneless chicken, but be aware that cooking times may vary. Boneless cuts usually cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Bone-in pieces tend to be juicier and more flavorful, making them a preferred choice for this dish.
What can I substitute for fresh tomatoes?
If fresh tomatoes are not available, you can use canned diced tomatoes or a high-quality tomato sauce as a substitute. Use about one 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes, draining excess liquid if needed. This will still provide a rich flavor to your Pollo Al Chilindron.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth or water if necessary to keep it moist.
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).