How to Prepare a Chicken Stewed in Pot
Chicken stewed in pot, also known as “pollo a la olla,” is a classic and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in many households. This recipe is simple to follow and yields a tender, flavorful chicken dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing a delicious chicken stewed in pot, from selecting the right ingredients to cooking the perfect meal.
Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks of celery, chopped
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil
– Optional: bay leaf, potatoes, and bell peppers
Preparation
1. Begin by washing the chicken and patting it dry with paper towels. Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Place the seasoned chicken in the pot and brown it on all sides. This step is important to enhance the flavor of the dish.
5. Add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
6. Pour in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, and paprika. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
7. If desired, add a bay leaf, potatoes, and bell peppers to the pot. These ingredients will add extra flavor and texture to the stew.
8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the chicken stew for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Use two forks to shred the chicken into smaller pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well to combine.
Serve the chicken stewed in pot with your favorite side dishes, such as rice, potatoes, or cornbread. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner with family and friends, and it can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
In conclusion, preparing a chicken stewed in pot is a straightforward process that yields a mouthwatering, homely meal. With this recipe, you can impress your loved ones with a delicious, tender chicken dish that will have them coming back for more. Happy cooking!
