Easy and Flavorful Spanish Chicken Stew Recipes

By Edu Valor / Author - Spanish Chef

Spanish chicken stews have been made for centuries. During the conquest of the Americas, people were already preparing various recipes, including this one.

In different South American countries, they adopted Spanish techniques and changed or added their own unique twists.

Slow cooking became widespread, and we still enjoy estofados to this day.

The aromatic pollo al ajillo.

Use the Advantage of Stewing

Flavor is the most important factor, especially when you own a restaurant. Any stew, including chicken, benefits from infusing ingredients into a rich sauce.

Like the chicken stew I had in Málaga a few years ago. Sometimes, you come across a dish so good that it stays in your mind, urging you to tell others about it.

The Spanish and Italians do master their stews. My stomach rumbles as I'm writing.

It's best to cook in a covered pot or pan, allowing gentle steam to surround the food until it's done.

Aromatics like bell pepper, garlic, thyme, and oregano retain their effect better in steamed liquids. With some reduction, you can even intensify the flavor.

The Basilica de la Incarnación in Malaga.

Do you Need a Pressure Cooker?

You can use almost any type of meat, but I prefer chicken because it tenderizes faster.

To minimize nutrient loss, I keep stew times under an hour for chicken and at least two hours for other meats. While a longer cook time—three or four hours—may result in a more tender texture, it also leads to greater nutrient loss.

This raises the question: should we use a pressure cooker? The answer is a resounding yes! According to nutritionists, it preserves far more nutrients (and energy). 

Some chefs even argue that pressure-cooked food has better flavor and texture. If anyone doubts the benefits, consider why Chinese cooking often involves quick wok-frying to retain nutrients and crunch.

To each their own, of course, but I always prioritize health first.

Less Hassle with Estofados

Stewing has the advantage of tenderizing lower-quality cuts, including the tougher parts of the animal. It’s not just about enhancing flavor.

Since everything cooks in the same pot, they are convenient and cut down on cleanup. You can add whatever ingredients you like.

Hopefully, this sparks your creativity with your favorite ingredients. The results can be so delicious that some chefs even use the broth to create an entirely different dish.

For example, the broth from a cocido or puchero can be repurposed for croquetas or soups.

Talk about stretching your food budget! And if you're making Spanish chicken stew recipes—one of the most popular meats—you’ll get even more out of it.

Chicken with orange sauce stew.

Nutritious Spanish Chicken Stew Recipes

So, if you consider the advantages and have a family with growing children, doesn’t it make sense to give them the most nutritious foods?

Of course, as long as the recipe doesn’t include wine. But beyond that, even adventurous parents, singles, or couples can enjoy a meal packed with energy and essential nutrients.

It will keep you energized, and knowing it’s good for you can be a great motivator.

*****

Edu's Delicious Chicken Stews!

Pollo al Ajillo (garlic chicken)

Pollo al Tomate (tomato chicken)

Pollo a la Naranja (orange chicken)