calabacita con pollo recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best calabacita con pollo recipe

I’ve been making calabacita con pollo for years, and it’s still a staple in our household. This traditional Mexican dish is a crowd-pleaser, and I love how easy it is to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and rich sauce is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that never fails to impress my family and friends.

My kids have grown up with this recipe, and they still request it regularly for dinner. What I appreciate most about calabacita con pollo is its simplicity – it’s a great way to get a delicious meal on the table quickly, even on the most chaotic of weeknights. The ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores, making it an accessible option for any home cook.

I also appreciate the health benefits of this dish – the chicken provides lean protein, while the vegetables add fiber and vitamins to the meal. As a bonus, this recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings or meal prep. In fact, I often make a double batch when we’re hosting company or when I need a quick meal for our family gathering.

This recipe has been passed down through generations in many Mexican households, and its enduring popularity speaks to its timeless appeal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, calabacita con pollo is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add some excitement to their meal rotation. As I mentioned earlier, one of the reasons I love this recipe so much is its ease of preparation.

The technique involved in making calabacita con pollo requires some basic cooking skills but nothing too complicated or intimidating. The flavors in this dish are also incredibly well-balanced – the rich sauce from the tomatoes pairs perfectly with the slightly sweet flavor of the onions and garlic.

Calabacita con Pollo

4.9 from 718 votes

Calabacita con Pollo is a delicious Mexican dish featuring tender chicken and zucchini in a flavorful tomato sauce. This comforting and hearty stew is perfect for a family dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika

For the Sauce

1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp chili powder

For Garnish

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Sour cream

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, cumin, and paprika.
2Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
Set aside.
3Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
5Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
6Be careful not to burn the garlic.
7Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet.
8Cook until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside, about 5-7 minutes.
9Add the diced zucchini to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini begins to soften.
10Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and chicken broth.
11Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
12Add the dried oregano and chili powder to the skillet.
13Stir well to incorporate the spices into the sauce.
14Bring the mixture to a simmer.
15Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the zucchini is tender.
16Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
17If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 7g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Serve with warm tortillas and a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.

Calabacita con pollo is a recipe that is always a good idea for any occasion. It is a hearty, comforting dish that is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a simple weeknight dinner. It is versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes and preferences.

I love that it is a one-pot meal that is easy to prepare and clean up. It is also a nutritious dish that is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. This dish is a staple in my family and will continue to be for years to come.

It is a dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories. You can serve it with a side of rice or tortillas and your family will love it. It is a dish that you can feel good about serving to your loved ones, knowing that it is both delicious and nutritious.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Calabacita con Pollo

Q1: What is calabacita con pollo?

Calabacita con pollo is a traditional Mexican dish made with chicken cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with onions, garlic, and spices.

Q2: What type of chicken should I use?

For this recipe, you can use either boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs – whichever you prefer will work just fine.

Q3: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

No, this recipe specifically calls for chicken as the protein source.

Q4: How long does it take to cook?

This recipe should take about 30-40 minutes to prepare and cook.

Q5: Can I store leftovers?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Similar Posts