Pollo en Pina

Pollo en Pina Recipe from Guatemala | Delicious Chicken Pineapple Dish

Region / culture: Guatemala | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Pollo en Pina, also known as Chicken in Pineapple, is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavors of chicken. This traditional Guatemalan dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

History

Pollo en Pina has its roots in Guatemalan cuisine, where it is a popular dish served at family gatherings and special occasions. The combination of chicken and pineapple creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that is sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients

3.5-4 lb (1.81 kg) skinless chicken, cut into serving pieces
1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored and chopped (save juice)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 fl oz (118 ml) lime juice
4 fl oz (118 ml) olive oil
4 fl oz (118 ml) white vinegar
chicken stock (if necessary)
salt and pepper
0.5 cup mixed salad greens, for garnish
red peppers (to garnish)

Guatemalan fried rice

2 tbsp shortening
2 cup rice
1 small onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tomato, chopped
2 tbsp peas
0.5 carrot, finely chopped
24 fl oz (710 ml) water
1 tsp Morton lite salt

How to prepare

Pollo

Marinate the chicken in lime and garlic for two hours.
Grill the chicken pieces in a heavy skillet or on a barbecue.
Add the remaining ingredients to the skillet containing the chicken.
If there is not enough pineapple juice, add enough chicken stock to cover the chicken pieces.
Cover and simmer over low heat until tender, about 45 minutes.

Rice

Wash the rice and allow it to dry.
Heat the shortening, then add the rice and fry until well browned, stirring constantly.
Add the tomato and onion.
Cook slightly.
Add water, salt, and other vegetables.
Cover and bring it quickly to a boil.
Lower the heat and cook for 45 minutes or until well done.

And Now the Hard Part

Serve the Chicken with rice, garnish with peppers, and enjoy!

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos for a spicy kick.
Use pineapple chunks instead of pineapple juice for a chunkier texture.
Substitute chicken with pork or shrimp for a different protein option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Marinate the chicken in lime and garlic for at least two hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

- Grill the chicken pieces before adding them to the skillet to enhance the smoky flavor.

- Be sure to simmer the chicken over low heat to ensure it is tender and juicy.

- Fry the rice until well browned to add a nutty flavor to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pollo en Pina with Guatemalan fried rice and garnish with mixed salad greens and red peppers for a colorful and flavorful meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling, simmering, frying

Ingredient Substitutions

Use lemon juice instead of lime juice.

- Substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar.

- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. The rice can also be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Pollo en Pina on a large platter with the Guatemalan fried rice on the side. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Pollo en Pina with a side of black beans and a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal. Serve with a cold glass of horchata or tamarind agua fresca.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 400 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 45g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 30% of daily value per serving

Iron: 15% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

Pollo en Pina is a balanced dish that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is relatively low in calories and does not contain any common allergens.

Summary

Pollo en Pina is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavors of chicken. With a few simple ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a traditional Guatemalan meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Pollo en Pina. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was always experimenting with new dishes, and she had a way of making even the simplest ingredients come to life.

As I walked into her kitchen, the sweet aroma of pineapples and spices filled the air. Maria had a big smile on her face as she handed me a plate of Pollo en Pina, a dish she had learned to make from her grandmother many years ago.

The combination of tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and flavorful spices was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I instantly fell in love with the dish and begged Maria to teach me how to make it.

Maria laughed and agreed to show me her family recipe. As we worked side by side in the kitchen, she shared with me the story of how she learned to make Pollo en Pina.

"It all started when I was a little girl," Maria began. "My grandmother used to make this dish for special occasions, like birthdays and holidays. She would spend hours in the kitchen, carefully marinating the chicken in a blend of spices and fresh pineapple juice."

Maria's eyes sparkled with nostalgia as she recalled the memories of her grandmother's cooking. She explained how her grandmother would let the chicken marinate overnight to ensure that the flavors were infused into every bite.

"I remember watching her cook with such passion and love," Maria said. "She taught me that the secret to a delicious dish is to cook with your heart."

As we continued to cook, Maria shared more tips and tricks she had learned from her grandmother over the years. She showed me how to season the chicken with a blend of cumin, paprika, and garlic, and how to caramelize the pineapple to bring out its natural sweetness.

As the dish cooked in the oven, the kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of spices and pineapple. Maria and I chatted about our families, our dreams, and our shared love for cooking.

Finally, the Pollo en Pina was ready. Maria served it on a bed of fluffy rice, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. The first bite was pure bliss – the tender chicken, the sweet pineapple, and the savory spices danced on my taste buds in perfect harmony.

As I savored every bite, Maria smiled at me and said, "Now you know the secret recipe for Pollo en Pina. Remember to always cook with love and share this dish with the ones you love."

I left Maria's kitchen that day feeling inspired and grateful for the gift of her friendship and her family recipe. I couldn't wait to share this delicious dish with my own loved ones and carry on the tradition of cooking with passion and heart.

And so, whenever I make Pollo en Pina for my family and friends, I think of Maria and her grandmother, and the love and memories that are infused into every bite. Cooking has a way of bringing people together, creating lasting bonds, and preserving precious traditions for generations to come. And for that, I am forever grateful.