Spanish Pollo al Ajillo is a traditional garlic chicken dish that is full of rich flavours and easy to prepare. This dish features tender chicken cooked with garlic, white wine, and aromatic herbs, creating a delicious meal that pairs well with rice, potatoes, or crusty bread. In this blog, we will guide you on how to make authentic Spanish Pollo al Ajillo at home and explore its nutritional benefits.
Ingredients for Spanish Pollo al Ajillo
To prepare this flavorful Spanish dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces) or 4 chicken thighs
- 6 cloves garlic (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Recipe to Make Spanish Pollo al Ajillo
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel and season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown.
Step 4: Deglaze with White Wine
Pour in the white wine and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze it. This step enhances the dish’s rich flavor.
Step 5: Simmer with Herbs
Add the dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Cover and let the chicken simmer for about 20 minutes until tender and fully cooked.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove the bay leaf and transfer the chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with a side of rice, potatoes, or crusty bread.
Nutritional Benefits of Spanish Pollo al Ajillo
1. High-Protein Meal
Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and overall health.
2. Heart-Healthy Fats
Olive oil provides monounsaturated fats that support heart health and reduce inflammation.
3. Rich in Antioxidants
Garlic contains powerful antioxidants that help boost the immune system and reduce oxidative stress.
4. Supports Digestive Health
The herbs used in this dish, such as thyme and rosemary, contain anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
5. Low in Carbohydrates
This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Spanish Pollo al Ajillo is a simple yet flavourful dish that brings the taste of Spain to your table. Whether you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal or a healthy protein-rich dish, this recipe is a great choice. Try making Spanish Pollo al Ajillo today and enjoy its incredible flavours!
If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with your friends and family, and let us know your favorite variation in the comments!
