🌶️ Pollo Ranchero Recipe: Bold, Flavorful, and Authentic Mexican Dish

Pollo Ranchero Recipe , or “Ranch-style Chicken,” is a classic Mexican dish that brings together tender chicken, spicy tomato sauce, and fresh herbs in a harmony of rich, comforting flavors. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves bold tastes and a touch of spice, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation. 🌮

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients 🌿
3. Step-by-Step Preparation 🥘
4. Cooking Tips 🔪
5. Variations 🌎
6. Nutrition Facts 🍽️
7. Serving Suggestions 🥄
8. FAQs ❓

Introduction

Pollo Ranchero Recipe (🌶️ spicy ranch-style chicken) dates back to traditional Mexican ranch meals, where hearty dishes were made with locally grown ingredients. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal, this dish is flavorful, adaptable, and, most importantly, easy to make. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with sides like Sopa de Fideo and warm tortillas. Let’s dive into this culinary delight!

Ingredients 🌿

Gather these fresh, flavorful ingredients for an authentic Pollo Ranchero Recipe experience:

• Chicken: 4 bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks, for tender, juicy results
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for a crisp golden sear
• White Onion: 1 medium, diced finely
• Bell Pepper: 1 large, thinly sliced (red for sweetness, green for a more earthy flavor)
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Roma Tomatoes: 4, diced, for a fresh and vibrant sauce 🍅
• Tomato Sauce: 1 cup, for a rich and smooth base
• Jalapeño: 1, seeded and minced (for heat)
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup, to keep the sauce deliciously saucy
• Spices:
• 1 teaspoon cumin 🌱
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh Cilantro: For garnish, chopped
• Lime Wedges: For that final zesty touch

Optional Additions

• Zucchini or corn for a heartier texture 🌽
• Heavy Cream or sour cream for a creamier sauce

Step-by-Step Preparation 🥘

1. Prepare and Season the Chicken

Begin by seasoning your chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to bring out deep, smoky flavors. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then place the chicken skin-side down. Sear each side for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy, sealing in the juices.

👨‍🍳 Pro Tip: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for richer flavors and a juicier texture!

2. Build the Flavorful Sauce

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then toss in diced onions. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Next, add minced garlic, jalapeño, and sliced bell pepper. Let these aromatics cook together, filling your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas. 🌶️

3. Add Tomatoes and Spices

With the veggies ready, it’s time to add the diced Roma tomatoes, tomato sauce, and spices: cumin, oregano, and a dash of smoked paprika. Stir to mix, and let this simmer for about 10 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down and the sauce thickens. 🍅

Transition Tip: While waiting for the sauce to cook, prepare your garnishes or side dishes. This is a great time to whip up some Mexican rice or a fresh side salad.

4. Simmer the Chicken in the Sauce

Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top. Pour in the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook for 25-30 minutes, absorbing all the delicious flavors. 🕒

5. Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a burst of freshness. This dish is perfect with Sopa de Fideo with Potatoes or warm tortillas. 🌮

Cooking Tips 🔪

1. Choosing Your Chicken: For the juiciest result, bone-in, skin-on thighs and drumsticks work best. You can also use boneless skinless chicken breasts, but remember to reduce the cooking time.
2. Adjusting Spice Levels: If you love extra heat, keep the seeds in your jalapeño or add more peppers. For a milder version, remove the seeds or swap jalapeños for bell peppers.
3. Perfect Sauce Consistency: Prefer a thicker sauce? Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or reduce the amount of broth slightly.

Variations 🌎

Pollo Ranchero Tacos 🌮

Shred the cooked chicken and serve it in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings. Avocado, radishes, and a squeeze of lime make this a flavorful twist on traditional tacos.

Vegetarian Pollo Ranchero

For a plant-based version, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even tofu for a dish just as flavorful.

Creamy Pollo Ranchero

To make this dish richer, add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream just before serving. The creaminess adds a luxurious texture and balances the spice perfectly.

Slow Cooker Pollo Ranchero 🍲

Looking for a convenient, set-it-and-forget-it option? Follow the same initial steps, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This version is ideal for busy days when you want dinner ready by evening.

Nutrition Facts 🍽️

For a standard serving of Pollo Ranchero:

• Calories: ~380 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Total Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg
• Sodium: 750 mg
• Vitamin C: 25% of daily value
• Iron: 15% of daily value

Serving Suggestions 🥄

Pollo Ranchero is versatile and pairs wonderfully with several side dishes:

• Mexican Rice: The fluffy, seasoned rice is perfect for absorbing the sauce.
• Warm Tortillas: Serve alongside to scoop up every bit of flavor.
• Avocado Salad: A fresh, simple side of sliced avocados, lime, and salt adds a cooling element.
• Sopa de Fideo with Potatoes: This comforting Mexican noodle soup makes a cozy pairing.
• Black Beans: For added fiber and protein, black beans make a tasty, nutritious side.

Pro Tip: Enhance your dinner with some Keto Kielbasa Soup for a delicious low-carb pairing that balances the richness of Pollo Ranchero.

FAQs ❓

Q: Can I make Pollo Ranchero with different proteins?

Absolutely! Pollo Ranchero is traditionally made with chicken, but you can substitute pork or even beef. For a vegan option, try mushrooms or tofu, both of which absorb the sauce beautifully.

Q: How can I make this dish less spicy?

To adjust the spice level, simply reduce the amount of jalapeño or omit it altogether. You can also add a small amount of sugar to the sauce to mellow out the spice.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat Pollo Ranchero?

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to keep the sauce from drying out. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, to retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

Pollo Ranchero is an ideal meal for those who appreciate bold, Mexican flavors and a hearty, comforting dish. With the versatility of this recipe, you can customize the spice, richness, and even texture to suit your preferences. Don’t forget to check out more Mexican-inspired dishes to expand

your culinary repertoire, like our Mexican Sopa de Fideo and other comforting Family-Friendly Recipes for delicious inspiration. 🌶️

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