Pollo Ranchero – Tasty Shelter

Before we dive into the delicious details of Pollo Ranchero, let’s talk about what pairs well with this mouthwatering dish. First up, you can’t go wrong with a side of Spanish rice. Its fluffy texture complements the savory chicken beautifully. Refried beans are another classic choice; they add creaminess that balances the spice. 

If you’re in the mood for something fresh, a simple avocado salad or pico de gallo brightens up the plate. And let’s not forget tortillas—both corn and flour offer incredible versatility for scooping up those saucy bites. Grab a cold drink, like horchata or a light Mexican beer, and you’ve got yourself a perfect meal pairing.

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I remember the first time I tasted Pollo Ranchero. I was in a small Mexican restaurant, and the moment the dish arrived, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The aroma filled the air with a promise of a great meal. Fast forward to today, I’ve tried multiple versions of this dish, tweaking it until I found my favorite recipe. Little did I know that cooking Pollo Ranchero at home would become a staple in my kitchen.

This dish isn’t just about flavor; it tells a story. It has roots deeply embedded in Mexican culture. Families gather around tables, sharing plates of this spicy chicken, laughter, and memories. When you prepare Pollo Ranchero, you’re not just cooking; you’re creating your own piece of history, one delicious bite at a time.

What is Pollo Ranchero?

Pollo Ranchero translates to “ranch-style chicken.” It’s a traditional Mexican dish that features chicken cooked in a vibrant, flavorful sauce usually made from fresh tomatoes, various spices, and sometimes chilies. The beauty of Pollo Ranchero lies in its simplicity. You can make it in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Originally, ranchers would cook this dish over an open flame, but today, we can replicate that rustic charm in our own kitchens.

The dish is characterized by its hearty and somewhat spicy flavor profile, thanks to the inclusion of jalapeños and other spices. Each region in Mexico might add its own twist, reflecting local ingredients.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

The flavor profile of Pollo Ranchero is a delightful dance of spices and freshness. You get a heartwarming blend of smoky paprika that hints at depth, complemented by bright lime juice. 

The tomatoes lend a juicy sweetness while the chilies provide a satisfying heat. Combined with fresh cilantro, garlic, and onion, the depth could make anyone believe they were dining at a rustic ranch.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Pollo Ranchero?

What sets my Pollo Ranchero apart is the emphasis on fresh ingredients and its approachable nature. Many recipes rely on store-bought sauces or canned goods, but I believe in using quality ingredients whenever possible. The combination of fresh tomatoes, lime juice, and a blend of spices elevates this dish to a new level.

I also include smoked paprika, which adds a unique smoky flavor without needing to grill the chicken. This small tweak makes all the difference in bringing out the dish’s rustic charm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s get cooking! Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to prepare this tasty Pollo Ranchero:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
  
• ½ medium onion, thinly sliced
  
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or substitute with avocado oil)
  
• 3 Roma tomatoes, roughly chopped
  
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  
• 1 jalapeño chili, diced (seeds removed for less heat)
  
• Juice of 1 lime
  
• 1 poblano chili, diced (or yellow chili pepper as an alternative)
  
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  
• ½ cup tomato purée
  
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  

Step by Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by seasoning your chicken. In a large bowl, combine the chicken slices with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial; it infuses the chicken with flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until it turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The aroma at this point is heavenly.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Now, it’s time to add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook until it begins to brown, about 5-6 minutes. Ensure the pieces are cooked thoroughly and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 4: Incorporate the Vegetables

Add the chopped Roma tomatoes, jalapeño, poblano, and oregano. Stir everything together, allowing the fresh vegetables to cook down a bit—about 5 minutes. This mix will start to create a fantastic sauce.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Pour in the tomato purée and lime juice. Sprinkle in the ground cumin and mix well. Simmer for another 10 minutes on low heat, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Final Touches

Finally, stir in the fresh cilantro just before serving for that extra burst of freshness. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Now, it’s ready to serve!

Tips on Making Pollo Ranchero

Here are some handy tips to make your Pollo Ranchero even better:

• Marinate longer. For a bolder flavor, let the chicken sit in the spice mix for at least an hour, or even overnight.
  
• Add more veggies. Zucchini, bell peppers, or corn can enhance the nutrition and taste.
  
• Use bone-in chicken. For richer flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
  
• Let it rest. After cooking, let the dish sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to settle.
  
• Save leftovers. Pollo Ranchero tastes even better the next day! Store in an airtight container.
  

Nutrition Information

Here’s what you can expect from a serving of Pollo Ranchero (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 325
  
• Protein: 36g
  
• Carbohydrates: 16g
  
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
  
• Sugars: 4g
  
• Fat: 15g
  

This dish provides a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, making it a hearty meal option.

How Can I Store This Pollo Ranchero?

Pollo Ranchero can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freeze it in portion sizes. It can last up to 3 months when frozen. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Ingredient Substitutes

If you can’t find any of the specific ingredients, here are some substitutes you might consider:

• Chicken breast: Use chicken thighs for a juicier option or even firm tofu if you’re going vegetarian.
  
• Jalapeño: Substitute with serrano pepper for more heat, or use bell pepper for a milder version.
  
• Roma tomatoes: If they’re not available, use cherry tomatoes or canned crushed tomatoes.
  
• Poblano pepper: Swap with a green bell pepper or Anaheim pepper to keep the dish mild.
  

Pollo Ranchero

Content Editor

Before we dive into the delicious details of Pollo Ranchero, let’s talk about what pairs well with this mouthwatering dish. First up, you can’t go wrong with a side of Spanish rice. Its fluffy texture complements the savory chicken beautifully. Refried beans are another classic choice; they add creaminess that balances the spice.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4

Calories 325 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
• ½ medium onion thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or substitute with avocado oil
• 3 Roma tomatoes roughly chopped
• 2 cloves garlic finely minced
• 1 jalapeño chili diced (seeds removed for less heat)
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 poblano chili diced (or yellow chili pepper as an alternative)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
• ½ cup tomato purée
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

• Start by seasoning your chicken. In a large bowl, combine the chicken slices with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial; it infuses the chicken with flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until it turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The aroma at this point is heavenly.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

• Now, it’s time to add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook until it begins to brown, about 5-6 minutes. Ensure the pieces are cooked thoroughly and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 4: Incorporate the Vegetables

• Add the chopped Roma tomatoes, jalapeño, poblano, and oregano. Stir everything together, allowing the fresh vegetables to cook down a bit—about 5 minutes. This mix will start to create a fantastic sauce.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

• Pour in the tomato purée and lime juice. Sprinkle in the ground cumin and mix well. Simmer for another 10 minutes on low heat, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Final Touches

• Finally, stir in the fresh cilantro just before serving for that extra burst of freshness. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Now, it’s ready to serve!

Notes

Here are some handy tips to make your Pollo Ranchero even better:

• Marinate longer. For a bolder flavor, let the chicken sit in the spice mix for at least an hour, or even overnight.
• Add more veggies. Zucchini, bell peppers, or corn can enhance the nutrition and taste.
• Use bone-in chicken. For richer flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
• Let it rest. After cooking, let the dish sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to settle.
  
• Save leftovers. Pollo Ranchero tastes even better the next day! Store in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Calories: 325kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 36gFat: 15gFiber: 3gSugar: 4g

Keyword Pollo Ranchero

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Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

As I wrap up this culinary journey, I hope you’re inspired to whip up your own Pollo Ranchero. It’s a dish rich in flavor, culture, and heart. With its straightforward preparation and adaptability, you can make it your own. The next time you gather with family and friends, consider placing a steaming pot of Pollo Ranchero on the table. 

Not only will it surely impress your guests, but it might also spark conversations and create cherished memories—just like that first bite I experienced in that little restaurant so long ago. So roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and enjoy every moment spent preparing this great dish. Your taste buds will thank you!

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