When it comes to adding some exotic flair to your dinner table, Puerto Rican cuisine never fails to impress with its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices. One of the most beloved dishes from this Caribbean island is Puerto Rican Chicken. This mouthwatering recipe combines juicy chicken thighs with a savory blend of garlic, onions, peppers, and a medley of herbs and spices. The result is a dish that explodes with flavor and transports you to the sunny shores of Puerto Rico with every bite. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen.
Puerto Rican Chicken
Ingredients:
– 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear them until they turn golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Once they are browned, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced bell pepper. Sauté them until they soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, oregano, thyme, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, for another minute until the spices are fragrant.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Return the chicken thighs back to the skillet, skin-side up, along with any accumulated juices. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the chicken cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the lid and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Sprinkle the fresh chopped cilantro over the Puerto Rican Chicken before serving.
Enjoy the enticing aroma and bold flavors of Puerto Rican Chicken as you savor each tender bite of juicy chicken with a delightful blend of herbs and spices. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner with family or a special gathering with friends. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or alongside a side of fried plantains for a complete Puerto Rican dining experience. Indulge in the tastes of the Caribbean right in your own home with this flavorful recipe.
