Sudado De Pollo Recipe

Craving a warm, flavorful dish that’s easy on the weeknight hustle? Look no further than Sudado de Pollo, a vibrant Colombian chicken stew guaranteed to satisfy your soul. As someone constantly searching for delicious and fuss-free meals, this recipe quickly became a favorite in my kitchen. Not only is it incredibly flavorful, but it’s also versatile and budget-friendly – perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.

What Is Sudado De Pollo?

Sudado de pollo is a traditional Latin American dish popular in countries like Colombia and Peru. It translates to “sweated chicken” in English. It’s a stew-like preparation where chicken pieces are cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and sometimes other vegetables like bell peppers. The dish gets its name because it’s cooked in its juices and a small amount of added liquid (such as broth or water), creating a flavorful sauce.

Ingredients:

Chicken: 8 pieces of bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks (or a combination)

Aromatics:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced

Vegetables:

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2-3 large tomatoes, chopped (or 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes)

Seasoning:

• 2 cubes chicken bouillon
• 1 tablespoon Sazon Goya con Azafran (or substitute with 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp turmeric)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh Herbs:
• ⅓ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Other: Water (enough to cover the chicken by about 2 inches)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and red bell pepper (if using) and cook until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
2. Season and brown the chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot with the aromatics and sear on all sides until lightly golden brown, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Simmer with tomatoes and stock: Add the chopped tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes), chicken bouillon cubes, Sazon Goya, and enough water to cover the chicken by about 2 inches. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is nearly cooked.
4. Add potatoes and herbs: Stir in the potatoes and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through and falling off the bone.
5. Finish and serve: Stir in the chopped cilantro once the potatoes are tender. Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot over white rice with a side of avocado slices (optional).

Tips:

• Chicken selection: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks are recommended for this dish as they add more flavor to the stew. You can remove the skin before serving if desired.
• Sazón substitute: If you don’t have Sazon Goya, you can create a similar flavor profile by combining ground cumin, paprika, and turmeric.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your stew, such as carrots, green beans, or corn.
• Adjusting the heat: If you prefer a spicier stew, add a chopped jalapeño pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic.
• Leftovers: Sudado de pollo reheats well and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What To Serve With

• Rice: White rice is a common accompaniment. It helps soak up the flavorful broth of the sudado. You can also opt for yellow rice (arroz amarillo) for added color and flavor.
• Arepas: These cornmeal cakes are a staple in Colombian cuisine. They can be served plain or with cheese inside (arepas de queso), which complements the stewed chicken dish well.
• Plátano (Plantains): Fried ripe plantains (plátanos maduros) are sweet and provide a nice contrast to the savory flavors of sudado de pollo. They are often sliced and fried until golden brown.
• Yuca: Boiled or fried yuca (cassava) is another popular side dish. It has a starchy texture similar to potatoes and pairs nicely with the tender chicken and rich broth.
• Salad: A simple side salad with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and avocado dressed with lime juice and olive oil can provide a refreshing contrast to the stew.
• Aji or hot sauce: Many Colombians enjoy adding a bit of heat to their dishes. AJÍ COLOMBIA SAUCE (spicy salsa) or a hot sauce can be served on the side for those who prefer spicier flavors.
• Cilantro and lime: Fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges can be served as garnishes. Squeezing lime juice over the sudado adds a bright, citrusy flavor that enhances the dish.

Health Benefits

• Lean Protein Source: Chicken is a lean meat that provides high-quality protein essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
• Vitamins and Minerals: The dish typically includes vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, which are rich in vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin A, as well as minerals like potassium and folate. These nutrients support immune function, vision health, and overall well-being.
• Low in Fat: When prepared without excessive added fats, ‘sudado de pollo’ remains a low-fat dish, making it suitable for those watching their fat intake or trying to maintain a healthy weight.
• Antioxidants: Ingredients like tomatoes and bell peppers contain antioxidants such as lycopene and carotenoids, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Digestive Benefits: The vegetables and the gentle cooking method of stewing can contribute to easier digestion, which is especially beneficial for those with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.
• Balanced Meal: When served with rice, potatoes, or yuca, ‘sudado de pollo’ becomes a balanced meal that combines proteins, carbohydrates, and vegetables, providing sustained energy and satiety.
• Heart Health: With its low-fat content and inclusion of vegetables, this dish can contribute to heart health by supporting healthy cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
• Versatility: Additional ingredients like herbs and spices may be added depending on regional variations, providing additional health benefits such as anti-inflammatory properties or digestive support.

Final Thoughts

Sudado de pollo is more than just a stew; it’s a warm embrace of Colombian flavors. The combination of tender chicken, savory broth, and vibrant vegetables creates a satisfying and soul-warming dish. With its ease of preparation and endless customization options, Sudado de Pollo is a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner repertoire.

More Chicken Recipes:

• BAKED ORZO WITH CHICKEN RECIPE
• CHICKEN BROCCOLI ZITI RECIPE
• CHICKEN ACHIOTE RECIPE
• CHICKEN CUTLET OVEN RECIPE
• CHICKEN ROSA PASTA RECIPE

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