Pollo Guisado (Puerto Rican Chicken Stew)

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil is healthier with a higher smoke point.

green olives

🥗Healthier: kalamata olives

💰Cheaper: black olives

Black olives are often less expensive and still add flavor.

potatoes

🥗Healthier: sweet potatoes

💰Cheaper: yams

Yams can be a more affordable alternative with similar texture.

bell pepper

🥗Healthier: poblano pepper

💰Cheaper: banana pepper

Banana peppers are milder and usually cheaper.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Season chicken with salt and black pepper, then add to pot.

Brown chicken on all sides, about 5-7 minutes, then remove and set aside.

In the same pot, add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in tomatoes, cilantro, bay leaves, cumin, and oregano; cook for 2 minutes.

Return chicken to the pot and add enough water to cover.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover; simmer for 30 minutes.

Add potatoes and carrots; stir well and cover again.

Continue to simmer for another 20-25 minutes, until vegetables are tender.

Stir in green olives and capers; cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: