La Bandera-Style Pollo Guisado

This authentic Dominican-style stewed chicken is made healthier with organic, whole-food ingredients, avoiding industrial seed oils and artificial additives.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup organic carrot, diced
  • 1/2 cup organic corn, kernels cut off cob
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 lbs bone-in, skinless chicken thighs and drumsticks
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) organic diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tbsp organic red wine vinegar
  • 1 organic serrano chile, finely chopped (optional for heat)
  • 2 cups organic low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup pitted green olives (optional)
  • 4 sprigs fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tbsp pure maple syrup

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What you'll need

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken with the red wine vinegar, cumin, coriander, oregano, and sea salt; let it marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
  2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the maple syrup and let it bubble and darken slightly, then add the chicken and brown it in the caramel, 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, green bell pepper, and serrano (if using); cook 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the carrots, corn, and olives (if using), then add the diced tomatoes with their juice and the broth, scraping up any browned bits.
  5. Return the chicken to the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer 35-40 minutes, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Uncover for the last 10 minutes so the sauce thickens to a stew consistency.
  6. Taste and adjust the salt. Serve garnished with chopped cilantro — traditionally alongside rice and beans to complete La Bandera.

FAQ

Is this La Bandera-Style Pollo Guisado gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broths and no wheat-containing ingredients.

Can I make the stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make the stew up to 3 days in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. It actually tastes even better after sitting overnight.

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