Cuban Chicken Vaca Frita

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a similar flavor profile with a higher smoke point.

chicken thighs

🥗Healthier: chicken breasts

💰Cheaper: bone-in chicken thighs

Bone-in chicken thighs are often less expensive and more flavorful.

black beans

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Canned beans are a quick alternative and often cheaper.

lime juice

🥗Healthier: fresh lime juice

💰Cheaper: bottled lime juice

Bottled lime juice is a cost-effective option.

Boil water in a pot and add chicken breasts when boiling.

Add 3 garlic cloves, 2 bay leaves, and 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water.

Cook chicken for about 20 to 25 minutes until manageable.

Prepare a dressing with 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil, juice of 4 lemons, and spices (oregano, cumin, thyme).

Peel and grate 1 teaspoon of ginger into the dressing.

Smash and finely dice the remaining garlic cloves and onion, then mix into the dressing.

Shred the cooked chicken and mix it with half of the dressing to absorb flavors.

Slice cabbage thinly and mix with diced apple pepper, then add the remaining dressing to the cabbage.

In a skillet, heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil and add diced onion with a pinch of salt, cooking until caramelized.

Add shredded chicken to the skillet in batches, allowing it to brown and get crispy.

Combine the chicken with the caramelized onions and serve on tostadas with the cabbage on top.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: