Colombian Chicken
Colombian Chicken Recipe - Authentic Colombian Flavors
Introduction
Colombian Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a medley of vegetables and olives. This dish is a popular choice for family dinners and special occasions, as it is easy to prepare and full of delicious flavors.
History
Colombian Chicken has its roots in traditional Colombian cuisine, where chicken is a staple ingredient in many dishes. This recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to make it their own.
Ingredients
- 1 frying chicken (3 lb (1.36 kg)) cut in pieces
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 lemon
- 0.5 tsp pepper
- 0.75 tsp paprika
- 1.5 cup pitted ripe olives
- 1 lg. onion, chopped
- 1 med. green pepper, sliced
- 1 med. red pepper, sliced
- 0.25 cup oil (preferably olive oil)
- 1.5 cup orange juice
How to prepare
- Marinate chicken pieces in lemon juice for at least 30 minutes.
- Combine salt, pepper, and paprika, then sprinkle over the chicken.
- Brown the chicken on all sides in oil. Place the chicken in a baking dish.
- Add onion, green and red pepper, and orange juice.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 45–50 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
Variations
- Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
- Use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of a whole chicken for a quicker cooking time.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Marinating the chicken in lemon juice helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with a bright citrus flavor.
- Browning the chicken before baking helps to seal in the juices and create a crispy outer layer.
- Adding olives to the dish gives it a salty and briny flavor that complements the sweetness of the orange juice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Colombian Chicken with a side of rice and a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Techniques
Browning the chicken before baking helps to create a crispy and flavorful outer layer.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use chicken broth instead of orange juice for a different flavor profile.
- Substitute black olives for green olives for a more intense flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the chicken in lemon juice and seasonings ahead of time to save time on the day of cooking.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Colombian Chicken on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Colombian Chicken with a glass of white wine or a refreshing fruit juice for a delicious meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover Colombian Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 300 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 12g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 15g per serving
Saturated Fat: 3g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 25g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin C: 45% of daily value per serving
Iron: 10% of daily value per serving
Alergens
Contains: None
Summary
Colombian Chicken is a well-balanced dish that provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Colombian Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, just like today, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was a Colombian beauty with a passion for cooking, and she had graciously invited me over to learn how to make one of her favorite dishes - Colombian Chicken.
As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was enveloped in the most delicious aroma. The scent of spices and herbs filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. Maria greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a glass of freshly squeezed mango juice. We chatted and caught up on each other's lives as she began to show me the ingredients she had laid out on the countertop.
Maria started by marinating the chicken in a mixture of garlic, cumin, paprika, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. She explained that the key to making Colombian Chicken was to let the flavors infuse into the meat for at least an hour before cooking. As we waited for the chicken to marinate, Maria told me the story of how she learned this recipe from her grandmother back in Colombia.
She reminisced about lazy afternoons spent in her grandmother's kitchen, watching in awe as the older woman effortlessly created mouthwatering dishes with just a few simple ingredients. Maria's grandmother had a knack for combining flavors and spices in a way that always left her guests begging for more. She passed down her culinary wisdom to Maria, who had since perfected the art of Colombian cooking.
As the chicken finished marinating, Maria heated up a large skillet with a drizzle of olive oil. She placed the chicken pieces in the hot pan, letting them sizzle and brown on each side. The sound of the meat cooking filled the kitchen, mingling with the tantalizing scents wafting from the stove. I could hardly wait to taste the final product.
Once the chicken was cooked through and golden brown, Maria added in a mixture of chopped tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers. She let the vegetables simmer in the pan, releasing their juices and melding with the flavors of the chicken. Finally, she sprinkled in a handful of fresh cilantro and a pinch of salt, giving the dish a final burst of freshness and flavor.
As Maria dished out the Colombian Chicken onto two plates, she handed me a fork and gestured for me to take the first bite. I eagerly dug in, savoring the tender chicken and the vibrant combination of spices and vegetables. The flavors exploded in my mouth, transporting me to the streets of Colombia with each delicious bite.
As we sat at the table, enjoying our meal and each other's company, Maria shared with me the importance of passing down recipes and traditions from one generation to the next. She explained that food was not just about sustenance, but about connecting with loved ones and preserving memories. I couldn't agree more.
Since that day in Maria's kitchen, I have made Colombian Chicken countless times for my family and friends. Each time I prepare this dish, I am reminded of the warmth and hospitality of my dear friend Maria, and the rich culinary heritage of Colombia. And as I watch my own grandchildren gather around the dinner table, eagerly digging into their plates of Colombian Chicken, I know that I am passing down a piece of my own story to the next generation. And for that, I am truly grateful.
Categories
| Black Olive Recipes | Chicken Recipes | Colombian Recipes | Colombian Snacks | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Orange Juice Recipes | Snack Recipes |