Description
Spicy Cuban succulent stewed chicken delivers authentic island flavors straight to kitchen tables. Slow-simmered tender meat infused with citrus and spices creates a memorable meal that connects generations of Caribbean cooking traditions.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 lbs (907 grams) bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or drumsticks
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Thoroughly cleanse and pat the poultry completely dry, then lavishly coat with a robust blend of aromatic seasonings including salt, pepper, smoky paprika, pungent garlic powder, and zesty onion powder.
- Ignite a deep skillet with olive oil, allowing it to heat until shimmering and nearly smoking over medium-high temperature.
- Strategically place seasoned chicken pieces into the hot pan, creating a golden-brown exterior by searing each side for approximately 3-4 minutes until a rich caramelized crust develops.
- Transfer the beautifully seared chicken to a temporary plate, reserving the flavorful pan drippings.
- Within the same skillet, gently sweat chopped onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and release their aromatic essence.
- Introduce diced tomatoes, concentrated tomato paste, fragrant thyme, earthy oregano, and a sprinkle of fiery crushed red pepper flakes, stirring to combine and develop deeper flavor layers.
- Cascade chicken broth into the pan, nestling a bay leaf among the ingredients, and carefully return the seared chicken pieces to the simmering liquid.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and allow the chicken to gently braise for approximately 30 minutes, occasionally rotating the pieces to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Carefully remove the bay leaf and assess the seasoning, making delicate adjustments if necessary to balance the dish’s complexity.
- Finish by scattering freshly chopped parsley across the top and serve alongside fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a rustic slice of crusty bread.
Notes
- Enhance chicken’s flavor by generously rubbing spice mix into meat before cooking, allowing seasoning to penetrate deeply.
- Pat chicken completely dry with paper towels to achieve perfect golden-brown sear, preventing excess moisture from steaming the meat.
- Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing red pepper flakes, making the dish milder for sensitive palates or spicier for heat lovers.
- Transform this recipe into a gluten-free option by serving with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional bread or rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg