If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with bold flavors and brings a lively mix of textures to your table, this Chori Pollo Recipe is going to be your new favorite. Combining spicy, rich chorizo with tender, juicy chicken, this recipe balances smoky, savory, and slightly tangy notes in every bite. It’s simple to prepare, yet feels like a special treat—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Once you try this Chori Pollo Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved comfort food that delivers a fiesta of taste with every serving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chori Pollo Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create extraordinary flavors. Each item plays a critical role, from the spicy chorizo lending richness and depth, to the fresh bell pepper adding a subtle crunch and sweetness.
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces: Choose thighs for juicier meat or breasts for leaner protein; both soak up the spices beautifully.
- 1/2 lb chorizo sausage, casing removed: The star that brings a smoky, spicy punch and hearty texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps cook the chorizo and veggies without sticking, while adding a smooth, subtle richness.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth that wakes up the palate.
- 1 bell pepper, diced: Offers color, crunch, and a bright flavor contrast to the meat.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Gives a gentle heat and earthiness to the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Brings a warm, nutty element that ties the dish together.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Amplifies smoky notes and adds vibrant color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: The simple seasonings that highlight and balance all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and melds the spices into a luscious sauce.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish.
- Lime wedges (for serving): A zesty squeeze brightens every bite.
How to Make Chori Pollo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chorizo
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chorizo, breaking it up with a spoon to release its oils and flavor. Cook it for about 4 to 5 minutes until it’s nicely browned and fragrant. This step is crucial because the flavorful fat rendered from the chorizo infuses the entire dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Allow them to cook gently for 3 to 4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and the vegetables soften. This layer builds a flavor base that complements the meat perfectly.
Step 3: Season and Cook the Chicken
While the veggies cook, season your chicken pieces with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet, stirring occasionally. Cook it for 6 to 8 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender. This step is when your Chori Pollo Recipe really starts to come alive.
Step 4: Simmer with Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything together. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak in all those wonderful spices and the broth to reduce slightly, creating a deliciously cohesive sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Prepare to Serve
Once the cooking is done, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the top and offer lime wedges on the side. These final touches brighten the dish with fresh herbal notes and a citrusy zip that perfectly balances all the richness.
How to Serve Chori Pollo Recipe
Garnishes
A big part of what makes the Chori Pollo Recipe so delightful is how the garnishes elevate every bite. Fresh cilantro adds a refreshing, slightly peppery flavor, and a squeeze of lime juice cuts through the richness with lively acidity. Consider adding sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream for richness and creaminess.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice to soak up the vibrant sauce or warm tortillas for wrapping the hearty filling into tacos and burritos. Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad also make for a brightly contrasting side, balancing the warmth and spice of the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Chori Pollo Recipe over nachos with melted cheese for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Alternatively, build vibrant bowls featuring the chori pollo, black beans, corn, and fresh veggies for a wholesome, colorful meal. The versatility of this dish makes it easy to customize and impress every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days and taste fantastic reheated, as the flavors deepen overnight.
Freezing
You can also freeze cooked Chori Pollo in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture tender and the flavors vibrant.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help restore moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage for this Chori Pollo Recipe?
While chorizo brings a unique smoky, spicy flavor, you can substitute with other flavorful sausages like Andouille or spicy Italian sausage. Just adjust seasoning as needed to keep that perfect flavor balance.
Is it better to use chicken breasts or thighs?
Both work wonderfully here. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving during cooking, while breasts give a leaner texture. Choose whichever you prefer or have on hand.
How spicy is the dish?
The recipe offers a moderate level of spice from chili powder and chorizo, which you can easily adjust. Reduce or omit chili powder for a milder flavor or add extra for a bolder kick.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The ingredients are naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your chorizo and chicken broth don’t contain any hidden gluten additives.
What are some other ways to enjoy Chori Pollo?
Beyond tacos or burritos, try Chori Pollo as a filling for stuffed peppers, on top of nachos, or mixed into scrambled eggs for an exciting twist on breakfast.
Final Thoughts
This Chori Pollo Recipe is a true celebration of flavors that’s quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable. Each bite offers a satisfying blend of smoky chorizo, tender chicken, and vibrant spices that’s guaranteed to brighten your meal routine. Give it a try for your next dinner, and I promise you’ll fall in love with this colorful, flavorful dish as much as I have.
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Chori Pollo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Chori Pollo is a flavorful and hearty dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked with spicy chorizo sausage, sautéed vegetables, and a blend of smoky spices. This quick and easy skillet recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner and pairs wonderfully with tortillas, rice, or as a taco or burrito filling.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 lb chorizo sausage, casing removed
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Garnishes & Serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the chorizo: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chorizo and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, for 4-5 minutes until it starts to brown and release its oils.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet with the chorizo. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent.
- Cook the chicken: Season the chicken pieces with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Simmer with broth: Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges before serving.
- Serving suggestions: Serve Chori Pollo with warm tortillas, steamed rice, or use it as a topping for tacos or burritos for a delicious meal.
Notes
- You can use either boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs based on your preference; thighs will yield a juicier dish.
- Adjust the chili powder quantity to increase or decrease spiciness according to taste.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the chorizo and chicken broth do not contain gluten additives.
