Pollo al Chilindrón (Chicken Stew with Peppers and Tomatoes)

Pollo al Chilindrón (Chicken Stew with Peppers and Tomatoes)

8 servings
Pollo al chilindrón pairs tender chicken with slow-simmered peppers, tomatoes, olives, and Spanish paprika for a vibrant, one-pot stew bursting with rustic, smoky flavor.

Ingredients

  • olive oil
    2 tbsp
  • whole chicken

    cut into 8 pieces, skin removed

    1
  • yellow onion

    finely chopped, about 2 1/4 cups

    1 large
  • kosher salt
    1 tsp
  • garlic cloves

    minced, about 1 tablespoon

    4
  • green bell pepper

    finely chopped, about 1 cup

    1
  • red bell pepper

    finely chopped, about 1 cup

    1
  • canned crushed tomatoes
    1 c
  • chopped serrano ham or bacon

    about 1/2 cup

    3 ½ oz
  • pitted dry-cured black olives
    ½ c
  • smoked paprika
    2 tsp
  • chopped fresh thyme leaves
    2 tsp
  • bay leaves
    2
  • black pepper
    ½ tsp

Directions

  1. 1

    Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium until shimmering. Working in batches if needed, add chicken pieces in a single layer, and cook, undisturbed but turning once halfway through cooking time until golden brown on both sides, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate. Reserve pan drippings in Dutch oven.

  2. 2

    Add onion and salt to Dutch oven; cook, stirring often, until onions are translucent, about 4 minutes. Add garlic; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in bell peppers; cook, stirring occasionally, 2 minutes. Stir in tomatoes; cook, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes are saucy and cooked though, about 5 minutes. Stir in ham, olives, paprika, thyme, bay leaves, and black pepper. Add the browned chicken; cover and cook over medium-low, stirring sauce occasionally, until a thermometer inserted into thickest portion of chicken reads 165°F and sauce is thickened, 15 to 20 minutes. Remove and discard bay leaves from stew before serving.

Pollo al Chilindrón (Chicken Stew with Peppers and Tomatoes)

Pollo al Chilindrón (Chicken Stew with Peppers and Tomatoes)

55 min8 servings217 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving a hearty, rustic meal that transports you to a Spanish kitchen? Pollo al Chilindrón is a vibrant chicken stew that delivers incredibly tender chicken simmered in a rich sauce of peppers, tomatoes, and smoky paprika.

Why This Pollo al Chilindrón Recipe Works

This Pollo al Chilindrón recipe stands out by perfectly balancing robust, earthy flavors with the freshness of bell peppers and the subtle tang of olives. By slow-simmering the ingredients, you allow the distinct notes of smoked paprika, serrano ham, and garlic to meld beautifully, creating a deep, complex sauce that truly coats every piece of chicken. It's a one-pot wonder designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

What to Expect from Your Pollo al Chilindrón

Prepare for an aromatic experience that fills your kitchen with the irresistible scent of savory chicken and sweet, smoky vegetables. The chicken, cut into eight pieces, will be exceptionally tender, practically falling off the bone, having absorbed all the wonderful flavors of the stew. You'll find a medley of softened, colorful bell peppers and tomatoes in a rich, paprika-infused sauce, brightened by the salty bursts of dry-cured black olives. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for a cozy dinner that serves a crowd.

Customization & Variations

While serrano ham adds an authentic depth, you can easily substitute it with bacon for a similar smoky, salty contribution. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of saffron threads along with the paprika. If you prefer a milder pepper profile, you can use only red bell peppers or even add a touch of roasted red peppers for a sweeter note.

Serving & Context

Pollo al Chilindrón is an ideal centerpiece for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Serve this rustic chicken stew with crusty bread to soak up every drop of the flavorful sauce, or alongside a simple bed of rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions