Pollo Guisado Puerto Rican — There’s nothing like a big ol’ pot of Puerto Rican chicken stew to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. I’m talking tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a rich, velvety sauce that’ll have you going back for seconds (and maybe thirds). This Pollo Guisado is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Quick Overview
This Pollo Guisado Puerto Rican proves you don’t need fancy techniques to create a deeply comforting, flavor-packed meal. It’s designed to be flexible, reliable, and perfect for both busy days and relaxed cooking moments.
| Total Time | Servings | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| 1 hour | 4–6 | Easy |
Why You’ll Love This Pollo Guisado Puerto Rican
This Puerto Rican–inspired Pollo Guisado takes cues from traditional island home cooking, where slow-simmered chicken, aromatic sofrito, warm spices, and tomato-based sauces create deeply comforting, family-style meals passed down through generations.
Ingredients for Pollo Guisado Puerto Rican
This Puerto Rican–style Pollo Guisado uses simple pantry staples layered together to create deep, slow-cooked flavor. Every ingredient plays a role in building a rich, savory stew that tastes like it simmered all afternoon — even if it didn’t.
Main Ingredients
- 2–3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs — Juicy, flavorful, and perfect for stews
- 1 tbsp olive oil — For searing and building a flavorful base
- 1 large onion, diced — Sweet, aromatic foundation
- 3 cloves garlic, minced — Adds depth and warmth
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced — Traditional flavor and gentle sweetness
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce — Forms the rich, saucy stew base
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce — Boosts umami and complexity
- 2 tsp ground cumin — Earthy, warm spice
- 2 tsp dried oregano — Classic herb for Puerto Rican flavor
- 2 bay leaves — Subtle herbal backbone
- Salt & black pepper — Essential for balance
- 1 cup water or chicken broth — Helps create the simmering sauce
Optional Flavor Boosters (Highly Recommended)
- Sofrito (for authentic depth)
- Green olives or capers (for savory brine)
- Lime juice or vinegar (for brightness)
- Fresh cilantro (for a fresh finish)
This ingredient lineup keeps the recipe accessible, but the flavor feels slow-built, cozy, and bold — pure comfort in a pot.
Ingredients That Matter in Pollo Guisado Puerto Rican
| Ingredient | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Chicken Thighs | Bone-in, skin-on thighs add richness, moisture, and deep flavor while helping create a velvety sauce. |
| Tomato Sauce | Provides a savory, umami-rich base that builds depth and balances the stew. |
| Cumin and Oregano | Add authentic Puerto Rican warmth and earthy, herbaceous flavor. |
| Bay Leaves | Infuse a subtle herbal note that ties all the flavors together. |
| Onion, Garlic, and Bell Pepper | This aromatic trio forms the flavorful foundation and boosts overall depth. |
Ingredient Substitutions
| Original Ingredient | Best Substitute | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Thighs | Chicken breasts | Breasts are leaner, but thighs stay juicier and more forgiving during simmering |
| Green Bell Pepper | Red or yellow bell pepper | Sweeter peppers add a brighter, slightly milder flavor |
| Tomato Sauce | Crushed tomatoes | Creates a chunkier, more rustic stew texture |
Tools You’ll Need
You don’t need fancy equipment — just a few kitchen essentials to bring this cozy Puerto Rican stew to life:
- A large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- A sharp knife and sturdy cutting board
- Wooden spoon or tongs for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
Simple tools. Big flavor.
How to Make Pollo Guisado Puerto Rican
Making Pollo Guisado Puerto Rican is all about layering flavor step by step. The goal is tender chicken, a rich sauce, and a stew that tastes even better the next day.
Step 1 — Season & Prep
Dry the chicken thoroughly and give it a generous seasoning of salt and black pepper to build flavor from the start.
Chop the onion, garlic, and bell pepper so everything is ready before cooking.
Step 2 — Sear the Chicken
Place a large, thick-bottomed pot on medium-high heat and add the olive oil until shimmering.
Place chicken skin-side down and sear until golden brown — this builds flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3 — Build the Flavor Base
In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until soft and fragrant.
Stir in cumin, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, bay leaves, and water or broth.
Step 4 — Simmer Until Tender
Return the chicken to the pot, making sure each piece is partially submerged in the sauce.
Cover and simmer gently for 30–40 minutes, allowing flavors to deepen and chicken to become fork-tender.
Step 5 — Taste & Finish
Remove bay leaves.
Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash of lime or Worcestershire.
Let the stew rest for a few minutes before serving — the sauce thickens beautifully.
Best Served With
- Fluffy white rice
- Tostones (fried plantains)
- Avocado slices
- Warm bread for soaking up sauce
Slow-simmered, soulful, and deeply comforting — this is weeknight magic with island flavor.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 1 hour | 4–6 | Easy |
Pollo Guisado Puerto Rican Variations
Spicy & Bold:
Add sliced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery kick that complements the rich tomato base.
Pollo Guisado con Papas (With Potatoes):
Toss in diced potatoes during simmering — they soak up the sauce and make the stew extra hearty and traditional.
Olive & Capers Upgrade:
Stir in green olives and a spoonful of capers near the end for a briny, savory depth common in classic Puerto Rican kitchens.
Sofrito Boost:
Swap the onion, garlic, and pepper base for a homemade sofrito blend to intensify flavor and authenticity.
Lighter & Fresh Finish:
Add a squeeze of lime juice and chopped cilantro before serving to brighten the stew and balance the richness.
Pollo Guisado Puerto Rican Nutrition Information & Dietary Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 10 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
Chef’s Tips for the Best Pollo Guisado Puerto Rican
Here are a few tips to ensure your Pollo Guisado Puerto Rican turns out perfectly every time:
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: This cut delivers the most flavor and moisture for the stew.
- Sear the chicken first: Searing the chicken before simmering locks in moisture and develops a beautiful caramelized crust.
- Simmer gently for at least 30 minutes: This allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become fork-tender.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire or brown sugar: These ingredients help balance the acidity and round out the flavor.
For food safety, always cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), as recommended by the USDA.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Fluffy white rice, tostones (fried plantains), curtido (cabbage slaw), avocado slices, and warm, crusty bread.
Storage: Leftover Pollo Guisado will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. To freeze, let the stew cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
According to FoodSafety.gov, cooked stews can be safely refrigerated for 3–4 days or frozen for longer storage when sealed properly.
Reheat: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.
Make-Ahead: This Pollo Guisado is a dream for meal prep! You can make the whole dish in advance and portion it out for easy, stress-free dinners throughout the week. The flavors will only improve as it sits.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pollo Guisado Puerto Rican
Will this Pollo Guisado still work if I use boneless, skinless chicken?
While boneless, skinless chicken will work in a pinch, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are the way to go for the most flavor and juiciness in this Puerto Rican chicken stew.
Is Pollo Guisado the same as chicken stew?
Yes, Pollo Guisado is the Puerto Rican version of a classic chicken stew. It features the same tender chicken and rich, aromatic sauce, with the addition of signature Puerto Rican spices and flavors.
What’s the difference between Pollo Guisado and Pollo Guisado con Papas?
Pollo Guisado con Papas is the same as Pollo Guisado, but with the addition of potatoes. The potatoes soak up the flavorful sauce and make the dish even heartier.
How long does Pollo Guisado last in the fridge?
Leftover Pollo Guisado will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Can I make Pollo Guisado in the slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Pollo Guisado adapts beautifully to the slow cooker or Instant Pot. Simply sear the chicken and sauté the veggies as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker or Instant Pot and let it do the work.
Final Tips Before You Dig In
Don’t be intimidated – this Puerto Rican chicken stew is way easier to make than it looks. Trust the process and let the flavors work their magic. Adjust the seasoning to your taste as you go – a little extra Worcestershire or a pinch of brown sugar can really make the flavors pop. Most importantly, have fun with it! Cooking should be a joyful experience, so embrace the cozy chaos and enjoy every bite.
- Don’t be afraid to tweak the seasoning to your personal preferences.
- Embrace the process and have fun with this comforting recipe.
- Get creative with garnishes and side dishes to make it your own.
Now get in there and whip up a batch of this comforting, flavor-packed Pollo Guisado – your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!
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Incredible 5-Star Pollo Guisado Puerto Rican
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: 🍲 Comfort Classics & Casseroles
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Description
Pollo Guisado is a traditional Puerto Rican chicken stew that’s cozy, savory, and packed with bold, home-style flavor. Tender chicken simmers with sofrito, herbs, and vegetables until the sauce turns rich and spoonable. Serve it over warm rice for the kind of comfort meal that feels like a hug from the inside out.
Ingredients
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (bone-in, skin-on preferred)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup sofrito (Puerto Rican seasoning base)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then brown it on all sides, about 8–10 minutes.
3. Transfer the chicken to a plate. In the same pot, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in tomatoes, sofrito, oregano, cumin, and bay leaf. Cook for 3 minutes to wake up the flavors.
5. Return the chicken to the pot, pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Cover and cook on low heat for 30–40 minutes, until the chicken is tender and cooked through (165°F / 74°C).
7. Remove the bay leaf, garnish with cilantro, and serve hot over rice.
Notes
– For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
– This stew tastes even better the next day after the flavors settle.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
