Pollo Almendrado(Almond Chicken)
Pollo Almendrado is a delightful dish that marries tender chicken with the rich flavors of toasted almonds and a fruity sauce of orange juice and crushed pineapple. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe showcases a unique blend of sweet and savory elements that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toast the almonds in a 300° oven for 25 minutes or until brown; do not burn.
- Set aside to cool.
- When cool, grind 1/2 cup of almonds in a blender until fine.
- Chop the remaining 1/4 cup coarsely.
- Brown chicken pieces in hot oil for 10 minutes on each side.
- Place chicken in a single layer in a shallow glass baking pan.
- Combine all other ingredients, including ground and chopped almonds, and pour over chicken.
- Bake at 325° for 40 minutes, basting several times.
- Increase temperature to 350° and bake an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the orange juice and wine overnight before cooking. You can substitute almonds with cashews for a different nutty profile, or use chicken thighs for a juicier result. Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor, so don't skip this step. Adjust the spices according to your taste; adding more cinnamon can elevate the dish's warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pollo Almendrado over a bed of fluffy Spanish Rice (Arroz Espanol) to soak up the delicious sauce. Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish also complements well with crusty bread or tortillas to mop up the flavorful sauce. For an extra touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Pollo Almendrado can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish with a splash of orange juice or broth, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pollo Almendrado(Almond Chicken) contains roughly 1981 calories, with 30g protein, 216g carbohydrates, and 119g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (128% of the Daily Value), iron (113% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (102% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1131mg per serving (49% 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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking for even browning and proper cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F after baking.
What can I serve with Pollo Almendrado?
Pollo Almendrado pairs beautifully with sides like Spanish Rice (Arroz Espanol) or a crisp salad. You can also serve it with corn tortillas or warm bread to complement the sauce. For a festive touch, consider adding beans or a corn salad on the side.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat to Pollo Almendrado, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the sauce. You can also serve it with a side of spicy salsa or hot sauce to allow each diner to adjust the spice level to their liking.
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).