Pollo En Crema Guatemala Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide

Guatemala’s rich culinary heritage is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, and one dish that truly stands out is Pollo en Crema. This creamy chicken recipe is a comforting classic, combining tender chicken simmered in a luscious, velvety sauce made from fresh cream, peppers, and aromatic spices.

It’s a perfect balance of savory and mild heat, making it an ideal dish for family dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re new to Guatemalan cuisine or a seasoned fan, this recipe will bring the authentic taste of Guatemala right to your kitchen.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide to making Pollo en Crema that’s bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and sure to impress. Plus, I’ll share tips for perfecting the dish, variations to customize it, and serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Ready to dive into Guatemalan flavors? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pollo en Crema is a fantastic dish because it combines simplicity with deep, rich flavors. The creamy sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken, creating a dish that’s both comforting and elegant.

Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Rich and creamy texture: The sauce is silky smooth, making every bite indulgent without being heavy.
• Mildly spicy and aromatic: The use of fresh peppers and traditional Guatemalan spices brings warmth and complexity.
• Easy to make: With straightforward ingredients and clear instructions, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile: Serve it with rice, tortillas, or vegetables to suit your taste and occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds (700g) chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh cream (heavy cream or crema fresca)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 fresh Guatemalan peppers (or substitute with poblano or mild jalapeño), seeded and chopped
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream for extra creaminess

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Serving plate or bowl

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Rinse and pat dry the chicken pieces. Season them lightly with salt and black pepper.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the peppers and tomato: Stir in the chopped Guatemalan peppers and tomato. Cook for another 5 minutes to soften the vegetables.
5. Season: Sprinkle in the ground cumin and oregano. Stir well to combine and let the spices bloom for a minute.
6. Add liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and fresh cream. Stir to incorporate all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. Return the chicken: Add the browned chicken pieces back into the skillet. Stir gently to coat them in the creamy sauce.
8. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the dish simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly.
9. Optional creaminess boost: For an extra creamy texture, stir in the sour cream just before removing from heat. Do not boil after adding sour cream.
10. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the dish and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

“To get the most authentic flavor, try to find Guatemalan peppers at a Latin market. If unavailable, poblano peppers make a great substitute!”

• Make it spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of serrano pepper for extra heat.
• Vegetable addition: Toss in sliced mushrooms or green beans during simmering for added texture and nutrition.
• Dairy alternatives: Use coconut cream instead of fresh cream for a dairy-free version with a subtle tropical twist.
• Make it ahead: Pollo en Crema tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Serving swaps: Serve over quinoa or steamed vegetables instead of rice for a low-carb option.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Pollo en Crema is delicious served with fluffy white rice, which helps soak up the creamy sauce perfectly. You can also enjoy it with warm corn tortillas for a more traditional Guatemalan experience.

For a balanced meal, pair it with a simple side like a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables. Try a crisp cucumber and tomato salad lightly dressed with lime juice and olive oil.

If you’re interested in exploring more vibrant dishes, check out these related recipes:

• Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide
• Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals
• Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas

Conclusion

Pollo en Crema Guatemala style is a heartwarming dish that brings together creamy textures and subtle spice to create an unforgettable meal. Its ease of preparation and rich flavors make it a fantastic choice for those seeking authentic Guatemalan cuisine at home.

This recipe invites you to indulge in a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Plus, the versatility in serving options means you can easily adapt it to your personal taste or dietary needs.

Whether you’re a novice or experienced cook, this Pollo en Crema recipe will become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ready to try more delicious recipes? Don’t forget to explore other flavorful dishes like Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food or 400 Calorie Vegetarian Dinner Recipe Ideas for Healthy Meals for inspiring meal ideas.

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