Chicharrones de Pollo Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 orange, zested and juiced
• 1 lime, zested and juiced
• 1/2 cup minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons adobo seasoning
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 2 (.81 ounce) packets Sazon seasoning with coriander and achiote
• 1 quart oil for frying
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 pinch freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken chunks, lemon juice and zest, orange juice and zest, lime juice and zest, minced garlic, adobo seasoning, onion powder, black pepper, coriander, and Sazon seasoning. Stir everything together to evenly coat the chicken.
2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
3. After marinating, heat oil in a large pot over medium heat, bringing it to approximately 300F (150C). This is the ideal frying temperature for the chicken.
4. In a separate large bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of black pepper.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade and add it to the flour mixture. Toss the chicken pieces in the flour until they are fully coated.
6. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil, working in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry the chicken for 5 to 10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 165F (74C) using an instant-read thermometer.
7. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 serving (out of 4 servings)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	1183
Total Fat	40g	51%
Saturated Fat	5g	25%
Cholesterol	138mg	46%
Sodium	329mg	14%
Total Carbohydrate	175g	64%
Dietary Fiber	17g	62%
Total Sugars	38g
Protein	44g	88%
Vitamin C	306mg	340%
Calcium	255mg	20%
Iron	8mg	45%
Potassium	1436mg	31%

Note: Nutritional data includes the full amount of flour. The actual amount of flour consumed will vary. The oil retention value for frying is estimated at 10% after cooking. These values may change based on cooking time, temperature, and the type of oil used.

Chicharrones de Pollo, or Puerto Rican fried chicken bites, are a delicious and flavorful dish that highlights the islands rich culinary heritage. The recipe involves marinating boneless chicken chunks in citrus juices, garlic, adobo, and Sazon seasoning before breading and deep-frying them to golden perfection. The result is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of vibrant Latin flavors.

History and Origin

The origins of Chicharrones de Pollo trace back to Puerto Rico, where the tradition of frying chicken has deep roots in the island's history. Puerto Rican cuisine is heavily influenced by the Spanish, African, and Taino cultures, creating a fusion of bold and dynamic flavors. Chicharrones, which originally referred to fried pork rinds, have been adapted in various forms across Latin America, but the chicken version (Pollo) has become a staple in Puerto Rican homes and street food stalls. Its evolution from pork to chicken made the dish more accessible and versatile, especially in the context of everyday Puerto Rican meals.

Regional Variations

While Chicharrones de Pollo is widely enjoyed in Puerto Rico, the dish has regional variations across Latin America. In the Dominican Republic, for example, fried chicken is commonly served as part of a dish called "Pollo Frito." In Colombia, similar fried chicken dishes are called "Chicharrn de Pollo" and are often served with a side of arepas or rice and beans. Despite the differences in sides and preparation methods, the technique of marinating and frying chicken remains consistent, ensuring that the dish retains its signature crispy and flavorful qualities.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Chicharrones de Pollo stands out from other fried chicken dishes primarily due to its seasoning and marinade. Unlike classic Southern fried chicken, which typically uses buttermilk or simple flour coatings, Chicharrones de Pollo is marinated in a citrus-based mix of lemon, lime, and orange juice, along with garlic, adobo, and Sazon seasoning. This gives the chicken a distinctive tangy and aromatic flavor profile. The breading also includes cornstarch, which contributes to the extra crunch, making it different from the more flour-heavy coatings seen in other fried chicken recipes.

Where is it Typically Served?

Chicharrones de Pollo is a versatile dish commonly served in a variety of settings, from family dinners to festive gatherings. In Puerto Rico, it is often enjoyed as part of a larger meal, accompanied by rice, beans, and plantains. Street vendors and local restaurants across the Caribbean also serve it as a quick snack or appetizer. The dish's popularity has spread throughout Latin America and can be found in Puerto Rican, Dominican, and Colombian eateries in cities around the world, including New York and Miami, where there are large Latin American communities.

Interesting Facts

• Chicharrones de Pollo are often served with a squeeze of fresh lime or hot sauce for added zest and spice.
• The dishs signature seasoning, Sazon, is a popular Latin American spice blend made from ingredients like coriander, garlic, and achiote, giving the chicken its characteristic color and depth of flavor.
• In Puerto Rico, Chicharrones de Pollo is not just a food item but a part of social gatherings. It is often eaten with friends and family while enjoying lively conversations and music.
• The dish has inspired various adaptations in the United States, especially in the form of fried chicken served with sides like coleslaw, fries, and pickles, combining American and Latin influences.

In conclusion, Chicharrones de Pollo is more than just a fried chicken recipe; it's a dish that tells the story of Puerto Rico's vibrant culinary history, its cultural exchanges, and its love for bold, savory flavors. Whether you're making it at home or enjoying it at a local eatery, its a dish that promises to deliver both comfort and excitement in every bite.

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