Asopao de Pollo (Puerto Rican Chicken and Rice Stew) Recipe

This Asopao de Pollo (Puerto Rican Chicken and Rice Stew) is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal! Imagine tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered together in a rich and aromatic broth with a touch of Caribbean spice. This recipe is easy to make and delivers a delicious and authentic Puerto Rican stew that’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of sazón seasoning, adobo seasoning, and other spices creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that’s characteristic of Puerto Rican cuisine.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup! Everything cooks together in one pot, saving you time and effort.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the vegetables or add your favorite protein, such as shrimp or chorizo, for a different twist.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
• Olive oil: Used to brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables.
• Onion: Finely chopped and adds a savory base and sweetness.
• Green bell pepper and red bell pepper: Chopped and adds sweetness, color, and a bit of crunch.
• Garlic: Minced and adds a fragrant and savory punch.
• Ground cumin: Adds a warm and earthy flavor.
• Dried oregano: Adds a slightly bitter and earthy flavor.
• Sazón seasoning with achiote: A blend of spices that adds a unique flavor and color to the dish.
• Adobo seasoning: A versatile seasoning blend that adds depth and complexity to the flavor.
• Tomato sauce: Adds richness and a deeper tomato flavor.
• Chicken broth: Adds flavor and forms the base of the stew. Use low-sodium or no-sodium broth for better control over the saltiness.
• Medium-grain rice: A versatile rice that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
• Peas: Adds sweetness, color, and nutrition.
• Green olives (optional): Adds a salty and briny flavor.
• Bay leaf: Adds a subtle aromatic flavor to the broth.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat.
• Fresh cilantro and parsley: Chopped and adds a fresh herb flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.
• Lime wedges: Serve with lime wedges for an extra squeeze of acidity.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Asopao de Pollo

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Add Spices and Liquids

Stir in the ground cumin, oregano, sazón seasoning, and adobo seasoning. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Rice

Stir in the rice and bay leaf. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Stir in the peas and sliced green olives (if using). Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the peas are heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with freshly ground black pepper, if needed. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Ladle the asopao into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and parsley. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use boneless, skinless thighs: For even more flavorful chicken, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
• Adjust the consistency: If the stew is too thick, stir in extra chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Don’t overcook the rice: Keep an eye on the rice as it cooks to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Add extra flavor: Add a splash of white wine or a pinch of saffron to the stew for an extra depth of flavor.
• Customize the herbs: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use more parsley or even fresh oregano for garnish.

How to Serve

This Asopao de Pollo is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Avocado: Top with sliced avocado for a creamy and healthy addition.
• Hot Sauce: Serve with hot sauce on the side for those who like extra spice.
• Fried Plantains: Pair with fried plantains for a classic Puerto Rican side dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Asopao de Pollo is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating, as the rice will absorb some of the liquid as it sits.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of rice? Yes, you can! Long-grain rice or even brown rice would work well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can! Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add chickpeas, lentils, or tofu for protein.

3. Can I make this recipe spicier? Definitely! Add more chili powder, red pepper flakes, or a diced jalapeño to the pot.

4. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Yes, you can! Brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

This Asopao de Pollo (Puerto Rican Chicken and Rice Stew) Recipe is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and authentic flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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