How to Make Asopao de Pollo (Puerto Rican Chicken Stew) - A Step-by-Step Guide

Asopao de Pollo is a hearty and comforting Puerto Rican chicken stew that is beloved by locals and visitors alike. This dish is a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine and is often enjoyed during family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. The rich and flavorful stew is made with tender chicken, seasoned rice, and a medley of vegetables, creating a satisfying and delicious meal that is sure to warm both body and soul.

The history of Asopao de Pollo is deeply rooted in Puerto Rico's c...

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Ingredients

  • 5 ½ cups chicken stock, divided
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 mini sweet pepper, chopped
  • 1 jalapeno, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 10 annatto seeds, or more to taste
  • 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chopped
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 cups medium-grain rice
  • 1 cup diced tomato
  • 1 cup frozen green peas
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • ½ cup pitted green olives
  • ¼ cup capers
  • 2 tablespoons adobo seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Information

  • Prep Time: 25 mins
  • Cook Time: 45 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
  • Servings: 12
  • Yield: 12 servings

  • Blend 1 cup chicken stock with lime juice, bell pepper, sweet pepper, jalapeno, garlic, cilantro, and oregano to make the sofrito.
  • Combine olive oil and annatto seeds in a large skillet over medium heat. Heat until seeds start to open up and oil turns a yellow-orange color, 3 to 4 minutes. Add enough chicken to cover the pan in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook, turning halfway, until juices run clear, 7 to 10 minutes.
  • Combine remaining chicken stock, 1/2 of the sofrito, and bay leaves in a large pot. Bring to a boil. Stir in rice, tomato, green peas, onion, green olives, capers, adobo seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the cooked chicken to the broth. Saute remaining chicken in the annatto oil before adding to the pot. Reduce heat to low and simmer until rice is tender, about 20 minutes more.
  • Nutrition

    299 cal.

    • Total Fat: 7g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
    • Cholesterol: 59mg
    • Sodium: 684mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 31g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Total Sugars: 2g
    • Protein: 26g
    • Vitamin C: 16mg
    • Calcium: 48mg
    • Iron: 3mg
    • Potassium: 305mg