Colombian Chicken Potato Stew

Colombian Chicken and Potato Stew Sudado de Pollo is the kind of comforting meal that brings everyone to the table. It combines tender chicken simple veggies and those signature South American spices for a pot of food that always smells incredible while simmering away. This was one of the first traditional dishes I cooked for my partner’s family and now it is my go to for Sunday dinners.

The day I first cooked this everything felt cozy The house filled with the aroma of chicken and cumin and we all gathered around for seconds

Ingredients

• Chicken pieces bone-in skinless: add rich savory flavor and make the broth silky Opt for quality chicken from a local butcher if possible
• Potatoes: peeled and cubed classic in Colombian stews Choose a firm waxy variety so they hold their shape
• Onion: diced creates an aromatic base Look for a fresh heavy onion with tight skin
• Garlic: minced builds layers of flavor Fresh cloves are best for full aroma
• Tomatoes: diced add sweetness and acidity Ripe red tomatoes make the broth lively
• Bell pepper: diced either red or green for color and a gentle vegetal sweetness Go for a bell pepper that feels glossy and firm
• Chicken broth or water: brings everything together in a rich gently seasoned sauce Use low sodium store-bought stock or homemade broth
• Vegetable oil: for sautéing I prefer a neutral high-heat oil like avocado or sunflower
• Ground cumin: gives its signature earthy Colombian aroma Opt for freshly ground if you can
• Paprika: brings subtle warmth and depth Choose a sweet or smoky variety
• Oregano: adds herbal balance Look for dried oregano that still has a vibrant scent
• Salt and pepper to taste: bring all flavors into balance Use sea salt for more complexity
• Fresh cilantro for garnish optional: brightens up the dish and adds a fresh herbal finish Select crisp green cilantro without any wilted leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat the Oil:

Begin by warming vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat Let the oil get hot enough so onions sizzle as soon as they touch the surface

Sauté the Aromatics:

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot Gently cook them stirring often for about six to eight minutes until translucent and aromatic This will infuse the oil and lay the flavor foundation for your stew

Brown the Chicken:

Nestle the chicken pieces in with the aromatics Sprinkle over salt pepper ground cumin and paprika Turn the chicken so it is coated on all sides and sear it until the pieces are lightly golden Maintaining medium heat gives you a flavorful exterior while keeping the meat juicy

Add the Vegetables:

Toss in your diced tomatoes and bell pepper Stir and cook for approximately five minutes until the vegetables soften and start to break down This will form the first layer of your broth

Pour in the Broth:

Add chicken broth or water to the pot It should barely cover the chicken and vegetables Bring everything up to a gentle boil so the flavors start to meld

Simmer the Stew:

Once boiling reduce heat to a simmer and cover the pot Let the stew cook gently for thirty minutes during which the chicken will begin to turn tender and juicy

Add the Potatoes and Oregano:

Lift the lid and add your cubed potatoes and dried oregano Stir everything to combine and return the cover to the pot The potatoes will pick up all those savory flavors as they cook

Finish Cooking:

Let it simmer for another twenty to thirty minutes or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork and your chicken is cooked through The broth should thicken as the potatoes break down

Adjust Seasoning:

Taste the stew and add more salt or pepper if necessary This is your chance to perfect the balance of flavors

Garnish and Serve:

Ladle the stew into bowls and shower with fresh cilantro for a hit of color and brightness Serve hot and enjoy every spoonful

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One thing that makes this dish special is the combination of cumin and fresh cilantro I have vivid memories of my grandma always showering extra green cilantro on top and insisting it makes the stew taste like home

Storage Tips

Sudado de Pollo holds up beautifully in the fridge for up to four days Cool leftovers fully then store in an airtight container When you are ready to reheat do so gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to refresh the broth This stew also freezes well portion it out in freezer bags and lay them flat so they thaw evenly later

Ingredient Substitutions

Out of chicken on the bone Try boneless thighs for convenience or swap in pork for a twist on tradition If you do not have fresh tomatoes a can of diced tomatoes works nicely Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well but in a pinch russets offer a heartier texture

Serving Suggestions

I love to serve this stew with fluffy white rice or a hunk of crusty bread to mop up the flavorful broth A slice of ripe avocado or some spicy aji salsa on the side is absolutely classic For a full Colombian meal add a quick salad of tomatoes cucumbers and onions dressed with lime

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Stories and Traditions

This dish is more than just a stew in many Colombian homes it is an invitation for family to come together Recipes are often passed from generation to generation with every cook adding their own twist I remember hearing stories at the table about how my auntie once made a whole pot just to welcome home a cousin from a long trip the stew has always felt like a taste of reunion

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best in this stew?

Bone-in, skinless chicken pieces are ideal, as they enhance flavor and keep the meat tender during simmering.

→ Can I use other vegetables besides potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute some potatoes with carrots or yucca, but potatoes are traditional for authentic texture.

→ How do I make the stew richer in flavor?

Sautéing onions and garlic first and searing the chicken help build a deep, savory base. Fresh herbs add brightness at the end.

→ Is this stew spicy?

No, this dish is flavorful but mild. For more heat, add diced jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes while simmering.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavors deepen with time, so it's well suited for making in advance and reheating when ready to serve.

→ What's the best garnish for this stew?

Fresh chopped cilantro is a bright, traditional garnish that lifts the stew’s flavors.