Chicken San Jose

Authentic Chicken San Jose Recipe from Spain - Delicious and Flavorful

Region / culture: Spain | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 55 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken San Jose is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with aromatic spices and savory rice. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, as it is sure to impress your guests with its bold flavors and beautiful presentation.

History

Chicken San Jose is a traditional Mexican dish that has been passed down through generations. It is named after the city of San Jose, which is known for its vibrant culinary scene and diverse flavors. This dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, as it showcases the rich and bold flavors of Mexican cuisine.

Ingredients

2 to 2.5 lb (1.13 kg) frying chicken, cut up
1 tbsp melted margarine, cooled
1 tbsp olive oil
0.5 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp celery seed
0.5 tsp paprika
0.13 tsp salt
pinch of black pepper and/or red/cayenne pepper
1 cup uncooked rice
0.5 cup coarsely chopped onion
0.5 cup sliced celery
0.5 cup well-drained canned tomatoes, quartered
1.5 cup boiling chicken broth*
0.25 cup sliced black olives (optional)
3 tbsp snipped fresh parsley

How to prepare

Season the chicken with garlic powder, celery seed, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Arrange the chicken in a lightly greased shallow 2.5 qt (2.36 liter) baking dish, with the skin side up. Drizzle melted margarine and olive oil over the chicken.
Bake the chicken uncovered at 450°F (232°C) for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and push the chicken to one side.
Add the rice, onion, celery, tomatoes, and broth to the pan. Stir well to combine.
Arrange the chicken over the rice mixture. Cover the dish and continue baking for 25 minutes, or until the rice and chicken are tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Sprinkle with parsley and sliced black olives before serving.

Variations

You can add diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans to the rice mixture for added flavor and texture.
For a spicier version, add chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken well with the spices to ensure that it is flavorful and delicious.

- Be sure to use a shallow baking dish to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and the rice absorbs all the flavors.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken San Jose with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of a whole chicken for this recipe.

- Substitute butter for margarine if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken and rice mixture ahead of time and bake it just before serving for a quick and easy meal.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Chicken San Jose with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, and warm tortillas for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 32g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 2g

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 3g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 24g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 15%

- Calcium: 4%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (margarine) and gluten (rice).

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in calories and can be a healthy addition to your diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Chicken San Jose is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With its tender chicken, aromatic spices, and savory rice, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Chicken San Jose. It was a warm summer day, the sun was shining brightly and the smell of spices filled the air. I was wandering through the bustling streets of a small village in Mexico, my senses overwhelmed by the sights and sounds of the local market.

As I made my way through the crowded market stalls, I came across a small, unassuming food stand tucked away in a corner. The aroma of sizzling chicken and spices wafted towards me, drawing me in like a magnet. I watched as the elderly woman behind the counter expertly seasoned and grilled the chicken, her hands moving with a grace and precision that only comes with years of practice.

Intrigued by the delicious smells, I approached the woman and struck up a conversation with her. She told me that she had been cooking this dish for as long as she could remember, passing down the recipe from generation to generation. She graciously offered to teach me her secrets, and I eagerly accepted.

Over the course of the afternoon, I watched and learned as the woman demonstrated each step of the recipe, from marinating the chicken in a blend of spices to grilling it to perfection. She explained the importance of using fresh herbs and spices, and how the combination of flavors created a harmonious symphony of taste.

As I took my first bite of the succulent chicken, my taste buds exploded with delight. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted before – a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and tangy. I knew in that moment that this recipe would become a cherished addition to my culinary repertoire.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in recreating the dish for my family. I carefully followed the steps I had learned, taking care to honor the tradition and authenticity of the recipe. As the chicken sizzled on the grill, the tantalizing aroma filled the kitchen, causing mouths to water in anticipation.

When I presented the dish to my family, their eyes lit up with excitement. They eagerly dug in, savoring each bite with delight. The flavors transported us back to that bustling market in Mexico, where I had first discovered the recipe that would become a beloved family favorite.

Since that fateful day, Chicken San Jose has become a staple in our household, a dish that brings us together and evokes memories of that sunny afternoon in the village market. I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, spreading the joy and deliciousness of this dish far and wide.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the kind woman who shared her culinary wisdom with me. Her generosity and passion for cooking inspired me to expand my horizons and embrace new flavors and techniques.

I may have stumbled upon this recipe by chance, but it has since become a cherished part of my culinary heritage. Each time I prepare Chicken San Jose, I am reminded of that magical day in Mexico, and the joy of discovering a culinary treasure that will be passed down for generations to come.