Chori Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that fuses the robust spiciness of chorizo with tender chicken, creating a meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. If you’re looking for something quick, easy, and utterly satisfying, then you’re in the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to make Chori Chicken, its nutritional benefits, and tips for perfecting the recipe, ensuring you have a delightful experience in the kitchen.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Chori Chicken: A Flavorful Family Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A vibrant Filipino-Spanish fusion dish featuring tender chicken simmered with chorizo in a rich tomato-based sauce with bell peppers and olives. This hearty one-pot meal delivers bold flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 8 oz Spanish chorizo, sliced ½-inch thick
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup green olives (stuffed with pimentos)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Steamed rice (for serving)
Instructions
- Heat oil in large Dutch oven over medium-high. Brown chicken thighs 5-6 mins per side. Remove and set aside.
- In same pot, sauté chorizo 2 mins until oils release. Add onions, garlic, and bell peppers; cook 3 mins until softened.
- Stir in tomatoes, broth, olives, paprika, cumin, bay leaf, and black pepper. Bring to simmer.
- Return chicken to pot, skin-side up. Cover and simmer 25-30 mins until chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Uncover and simmer 5 more mins to slightly thicken sauce. Discard bay leaf.
- Garnish with parsley and serve over steamed rice.
Notes
- Shortcut: Use boneless chicken thighs (reduce cook time by 5 mins)
- Spice level: Choose mild or hot chorizo to preference
- Traditional touch: Add 1 tsp annatto powder for color
- Make ahead: Flavors deepen when refrigerated overnight
- Substitution: Portuguese linguiça works if chorizo unavailable
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: Filipino-Spanish Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh + sauce
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Why You’ll Love Chori Chicken
Perfect for Families, Quick, and Delicious
Chori Chicken encapsulates everything that a family meal should be: it’s quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With tender pieces of chicken bathed in seasoned juices from the chorizo, this dish provides comforting satisfaction that feels like a warm hug on a plate. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it a go-to for those busy weeknights when cooking from scratch seems more of a challenge.
Nutritional Benefits and Simple Ingredients
Another reason to love Chori Chicken is its nutritional profile. Packed with protein from chicken and healthy fats from chorizo, this dish offers a balanced meal with essential vitamins and minerals. The recipe consists of simple ingredients you already have in your pantry or can easily find at the store, ensuring you have everything you need for a wholesome dinner without a long shopping list.
Flexibility: Adaptable and Budget-Friendly
Chori Chicken is incredibly versatile, allowing for a range of adaptations to suit your family’s needs or dietary preferences. Whether you need to use up some veggies in the fridge, want to spice it up for a special occasion, or need to adjust the recipe for a specific diet, Chori Chicken can be modified without compromising its delightful taste. Plus, with ingredients that won’t break the bank, this recipe is a budget-friendly option for families.
Essential Ingredients for the Recipe
This delightful recipe requires just a few essential ingredients that work together to create a symphony of flavors.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 8 oz Spanish chorizo, sliced ½-inch thick
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup green olives (stuffed with pimentos)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Steamed rice (for serving)
Main Ingredient 1: Chicken
The star of Chori Chicken is, of course, the chicken itself. Both chicken breasts and thighs can be used for this recipe. If you prefer white meat, go with breasts; for a richer flavor, stick with thighs. If you don’t have chicken on hand, consider using turkey or even tofu for a lighter, protein-packed alternative.
Main Ingredient 2: Chorizo
Chorizo is the flavor powerhouse of this dish. You can find it in various forms: fresh, dried, or semi-cured. Fresh chorizo adds a burst of smoky flavor, while cured varieties may lend a different taste. If you’d like to make it a bit leaner, you could use chicken chorizo or even vegetarian alternatives made from soy or beans.
Main Ingredient 3: Bell Pepper
Bell peppers not only add color but also a sweet crunch to balance the dish. Feel free to switch it up and use different varieties, such as jalapeños for heat or zucchini for a milder flavor. When selecting your peppers, choose firm ones without blemishes for the best results.
Ingredient Preparation
Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken and Chorizo
Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. This will help it cook quickly and evenly. Next, remove the casing from the chorizo if necessary, making it easier to crumble and distribute the flavors throughout the dish.
Step 2 – Chop the Vegetables
Chop the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Taking the time to finely chop these ingredients will enhance the dish’s overall flavor by allowing them to cook down and meld together. To save time, you could use pre-chopped vegetables or a food processor if you’re short on time.
Step 3 – Seasoning
Gather your spices (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika) along with salt and pepper, and set them aside. Having everything measured out will streamline the cooking process and ensure you don’t forget any of the crucial seasonings that bring Chori Chicken to life.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1 – Initial Preparation
Start your cooking adventure by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the olive oil to the pan, which will help deliver rich flavors and prevent sticking.
Step 2 – Ingredient Assembly
Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic, followed by the bell peppers. Continue cooking until everything is tender and lashed with fragrant aromas.
Step 3 – Cooking and Finishing Touches
Now it’s time to add the chorizo. Stir it into the mixture, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once the chorizo starts to brown and release its oils, add in the chicken pieces—season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
Pour in the chicken broth, and bring everything to a simmer. Let it cook for roughly 8-10 minutes or until your chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Tips for an Even Tastier Version
Adding Extra Ingredients
You can amp up the flavor of your Chori Chicken by tossing in extra goodies like black beans, corn, or even spinach. Adding veggies not only enhances nutrition but also brings more textures into play.
Techniques to Enhance Flavor
Consider marinating your chicken in a bit of lime juice, garlic, and spices before cooking. This will infuse it with a deeper flavor profile. You could also top your finished dish with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese for added creaminess.
Adjustments for Preferences
If you’re looking to adjust the recipe for special diets, consider using low-carb tortillas for a Chori Chicken taco or serving it over cauliflower rice instead of white rice. You can also replace the chorizo with a plant-based sausage if you’re going for a fully vegetarian meal.
Recipe Variations and Adaptations
Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian version of Chori Chicken, substitute the chicken and chorizo with a combination of hearty beans (like black or kidney beans) and tempeh or tofu. Season it well with the same spices for a similar flavor profile.
Gluten-Free or Low-Carb Option
To make this dish gluten-free, ensure your broth and chorizo (if using packaged) contain no hidden gluten ingredients. For a low-carb version, serve it over riced cauliflower or alongside a hearty salad rather than rice.
Other Adaptations
Seasonally, you can adapt this recipe by incorporating autumn vegetables like sweet potatoes or using fresh summer corn when it’s in season to add sweetness and a crunchy texture to your meal.
Serving Suggestions
Salad or Soup Ideas
Pair your delightful Chori Chicken with a fresh salad of mixed greens topped with a citrus vinaigrette for a balanced meal. Alternatively, a light vegetable soup would serve as a fantastic starter.
Hearty Sides
Consider serving Chori Chicken with a side of homemade cornbread or roasted vegetables. These warm accompaniments will complement your dish while adding a delightful crunch and flavor.
Drink Recommendations
A cold glass of lemonade or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc goes perfectly with this dish. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing mocktail made with lime and mint is an excellent choice.
Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, let them cool down to room temperature before storing them. Place your Chori Chicken in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for more extended storage.
Reheating Techniques
To reheat, consider using the microwave for a quick meal or the stovetop for a more even warm-through. If using a microwave, pop it in for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. If reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
Portioning Tips
This dish is ideal for meal prep. Divide the Chori Chicken into meal-sized portions in containers for convenient grab-and-go lunches. Perfectly portioned sizes make it easy to stick to healthy eating throughout the week.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
Nutritional Values per Serving
One serving of Chori Chicken typically contains approximately 350 calories, 20 grams of protein, 25 grams of fat, and 5 grams of carbohydrates—making it a well-rounded meal option.
Ingredient Benefits
The chicken provides lean protein, which is necessary for maintaining muscle and energy, while chorizo adds flavor along with beneficial fats. Additionally, bell peppers are packed with vitamins A and C, promoting a robust immune system.
Recommended Portions
For a balanced plate, consider serving a 3-4 oz portion of chicken per person, complemented by a healthy side salad or vegetable dish to round out your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Issue 1 – Overcooking Chicken
Overcooking is a common pitfall that can lead to dry chicken. Ensure you monitor cooking time and check for doneness with a meat thermometer for best results.
Issue 2 – Underseasoning
Chorizo is flavorful, but it’s essential to use enough spices to ensure a well-balanced taste. Don’t shy away from adjusting the seasonings according to your taste preferences—taste as you go!
Issue 3 – Ignoring Textures
To avoid a mushy dish, make sure to sauté your vegetables just until tender-crisp. This will add a delightful crunch and keep the meal from becoming too soft.
Inspiring Conclusion
Chori Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings families together around the table. The blend of flavors, colors, and aromas creates a dish that’s simply irresistible. Please give this recipe a try, experiment with your variations, and don’t hesitate to share your results with family and friends. Cooking is, after all, a journey best shared!
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
- Yes, you can! Prepare all ingredients and store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook them together on the day you plan to serve.
2. What are the best substitutes for chorizo?
- If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey sausage or plant-based sausage can work well. Tofu with added spices is also a fantastic substitute.
3. Can I use other meats?
- Absolutely! Pork, turkey, or even beef can be used in this recipe, but be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
4. Is Chori Chicken suitable for meal prep?
- Yes, it stores well in the fridge or freezer. Just portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, freeze in airtight containers and consume within 2-3 months for the best quality.
6. What can I serve with Chori Chicken?
- Consider pairing it with rice, quinoa, or a light salad for a balanced meal.
7. Is this recipe spicy?
- The spice level can be adjusted based on the chorizo you use. If you prefer milder chorizo, choose sweet chorizo and reduce the chili powder used.
8. How can I enhance the dish for special occasions?
- Consider serving it in taco form or over fresh tortillas with salsa and guacamole for a festive flair.
9. How long can leftovers be stored?
- They can be kept in the fridge for about 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
10. What’s the best way to heat frozen leftovers?
- Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or in the microwave until hot throughout.
Remember, the kitchen is a place for creativity—Chori Chicken can be adapted and reinvented to suit your tastes. Happy cooking!
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