As the enticing aroma of marinated chicken wafted through my kitchen, I couldn’t help but be transported to the lively streets of the Dominican Republic, where Locrio de Pollo reigns as a beloved comfort food. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a vibrant tapestry of culture and tradition, wrapped in the warmth of home-cooked joy. When I first tried making this authentic chicken rice dish, I was amazed at how easily the familiar flavors came together, creating that perfect harmony of savory notes and tender rice.
Every bite uncovers a delightful blend of spices and fresh ingredients, illustrating the essence of Dominican cooking. Whether you’re serving it up for a special family dinner or simply seeking a delicious way to break free from fast food routines, Locrio de Pollo is here to impress. Join me on a flavorful journey and discover how this dish can bring warmth and a dash of adventure to your kitchen!
Why is Locrio de Pollo so loved?
Simplicity: This dish is easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking skills while delivering maximum flavor.
Cultural Essence: Every spoonful celebrates Dominican tradition, infusing your meal with authentic heritage.
Flavorful Harmony: The aromatic spices and sofrito meld beautifully, inviting your senses on a delicious journey.
Versatile Dish: Customize with different proteins or vegetables, making it suitable for any palate.
Comfort Food: Perfectly moist, seasoned rice with tender chicken creates that warm, cozy feeling every family craves.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, it’s bound to be a hit with friends and family – who can resist such a hearty, inviting meal?
Locrio de Pollo Ingredients
• Discover the flavors that make this dish a comfort food favorite!
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs chicken thighs and drumsticks – Tender cuts great for marinating and absorbing flavors.
- 1 ½ tsp Loisa Sal Marina – Enhances the overall flavor; sea salt works well as an alternative.
- 2 tsp Loisa Organic Adobo – Adds depth with a blend of spices; feel free to use homemade adobo instead.
- 1 tsp Loisa Organic Oregano – Brings in herbal notes; fresh oregano can be substituted for a fresher taste.
- 1 tsp Loisa Organic Smoked Paprika – Introduces a beautiful smoky flavor; regular paprika can also work.
- 2 tsp Loisa Organic Sazón – Essential for that authentic flavor; other brands of sazón are suitable if you can’t find this.
For the Vegetables
- 2 sprigs fresh culantro, chopped – Distinct scent that enhances the dish; cilantro may serve as a substitute.
- 3 sprigs fresh cilantro, chopped – Brightens up the dish; feel free to use parsley if you prefer.
- 1 bell pepper, any color, sliced – Adds color and sweetness; any bell pepper will do.
- 1 small red onion, minced – Provides a sweet base flavor; yellow onion can be swapped if necessary.
- ¼ cup celery, chopped – Contributes to the mirepoix; can be omitted if not available.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for flavor; garlic powder is an alternative if pressed for time.
For Extra Flavor
- 2 tbsp capers – Delivers a briny punch; skip for a milder taste.
- 2 tbsp pitted green olives, halved – Adds a salty tang; feel free to exclude them.
- Juice of 1 lime – Enhances brightness; lemon juice is a suitable swap.
- Juice of 1 sour orange (optional) – Provides unique citrus notes; substitute with additional lime if needed.
For the Cooking Base
- 3 tbsp avocado oil (or other high-heat oil) – Perfect for cooking; switch to olive oil if that’s what you have.
- 1 tbsp coconut sugar (or regular sugar) – Balances out acidity nicely; brown sugar can also work well.
- 1 cup auyama (kabocha squash), diced – Adds natural sweetness and nutrition; pumpkin may be a substitute.
- 1 small carrot, diced – Brings in more sweetness; other root vegetables can be used.
- 1 cup tomato sauce – Adds moisture and flavor; crushed tomatoes or tomato paste are good substitutes.
- 2 cups rice – The base of this Locrio de Pollo; long-grain white rice is commonly used.
- 2 cups organic chicken broth – Lends depth to the dish; water can be an alternative but will mute flavors.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating the delightful and authentic Locrio de Pollo that your family will cherish!
How to Make Locrio de Pollo
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Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs and drumsticks with salt, oregano, adobo, Sazón, smoked paprika, cilantro, culantro, black pepper, bell pepper, onion, celery, garlic, capers, olives, lime juice, and sour orange. Mix well and let it marinate for 30 minutes to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
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Sauté Chicken: Heat the avocado oil in a cast iron pan over medium heat. Add the coconut sugar and allow it to caramelize for about 30 seconds before adding the marinated chicken. Sear the chicken for 1-2 minutes until golden brown on all sides.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the Loisa Sofrito along with the marinated vegetables. Then, add the diced auyama, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Mix everything thoroughly and bring it to a gentle boil.
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Cook Rice: Once boiling, add the rice to the mixture and stir to help prevent sticking. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, cooking for 15 minutes. After that, uncover and give it a gentle stir, then cover again and cook for another 5-10 minutes until the rice is firm yet tender.
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Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve it warm, garnishing with fresh cilantro. Pair with sliced avocado or crispy tostones for an added treat!
Optional: Serve with a wedge of lime for extra zest.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Locrio de Pollo Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your imagination run wild as you customize this mouthwatering dish!
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Pork Alternative: Substitute the chicken with pork shoulder or sausage for a heartier twist. It brings a new depth of flavor!
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms for a delightful vegetarian option. These ingredients soak up the same aromatic flavors beautifully.
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Colorful Veggies: Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or green beans for a burst of color and nutrition. Your family will love the extra textures!
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat, taking your Locrio de Pollo to the next level. Perfect for spice lovers!
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Coconut Cream: For a creamier texture, stir in coconut cream right before serving. It adds a luxurious richness that pairs wonderfully with the spices.
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Cilantro Alternative: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, try fresh parsley or green onions for a different fresh herb note. You can still get that delightful garnish without the taste you dislike!
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Tomato Twist: Substitute the tomato sauce with salsa for a zesty flavor profile, giving this traditional dish a fun and spicy uplift. It adds an unexpected zing!
Let these variations inspire you to make an unforgettable Locrio de Pollo that the whole family can enjoy!
What to Serve with Locrio de Pollo?
Complete your meal experience with delightful sides that enhance the lively flavors of this beloved Dominican dish.
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Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the savory goodness of the Locrio, making each bite a delight.
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Tostones: These crispy fried plantains provide a crunchy texture, enhancing the overall dining experience. They’re perfect for scooping up flavorful rice!
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Mango Salsa: A vibrant salsa brings a sweet and tangy kick, brightening the meal with fresh fruit while echoing the dish’s tropical roots.
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Black Beans: Rich and savory, seasoned black beans add a hearty component, complementing the chicken and rice well for a well-rounded plate.
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Coconut Rice: For a twist on tradition, fragrant coconut rice offers a subtly sweet pairing that harmonizes beautifully with the savory flavors of Locrio de Pollo.
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Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw provides a crunchy, refreshing contrast, adding both texture and brightness to your plate.
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Sweet Plantains: Caramelized and sweet, these plantains are a comforting addition that meld perfectly with the rice and chicken flavors, making it a true feast.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc brings a refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness, enhancing the overall meal flavor profile.
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Flan: For dessert, a velvety flan offers a sweet finish, rounding out your meal beautifully and echoing that lovely Latin flair!
Expert Tips for Locrio de Pollo
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Marination Matters: Ensure your chicken is well-coated in the marinade for maximum flavor. The longer the marination, the better the taste!
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Rice Care: Stir the rice occasionally while it cooks. This helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking, resulting in perfect Locrio de Pollo.
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Steam Seal: Use a tight-fitting lid to retain steam while cooking rice, as this is key to achieving that light and fluffy texture.
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Flavor Balance: Adjust seasoning according to your taste, especially the lime and sour orange, to tailor the dish to your preference.
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Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins, making Locrio de Pollo versatile for family preferences.
Make Ahead Options
These Locrio de Pollo are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply combine all marinating ingredients and let the chicken soak in that savory goodness. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables (such as the bell pepper, onion, and ao yama) and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just sauté the marinated chicken and finish cooking the rice as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, home-cooked Locrio de Pollo with minimal effort and time!
How to Store and Freeze Locrio de Pollo
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Fridge: Store leftover Locrio de Pollo in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
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Freezer: To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: For optimal texture, reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a bit of chicken broth if needed to restore moisture.
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Avoid Refreezing: It’s best not to refreeze Locrio de Pollo after it has been thawed to maintain its flavor and quality.
Locrio de Pollo Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients for Locrio de Pollo?
When choosing ingredients, particularly vegetables, look for vibrant colors and firmness. For bell peppers, ensure they are free from blemishes or soft spots. Fresh herbs like cilantro and culantro should be bright and fragrant. Selecting fresh chicken also makes a big difference; opt for those without any discoloration or foul smell to ensure a delicious meal.
How should I store leftover Locrio de Pollo?
Absolutely! Remaining Locrio de Pollo can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days. To keep it moist when reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water, and gently warm it in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I freeze Locrio de Pollo?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the dish cool completely and then pour it into a freezer-safe container. Seal tightly, and it will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. For best results, reheat in a saucepan with a little chicken broth to regain moisture.
What should I do if my rice is undercooked after following the recipe?
Very! If you find that the rice is still a bit hard after the initial 20 minutes, you can cover it again and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes on low heat. Make sure to also add a splash of broth or water to create steam; this can often resolve any undercooking. Remember to stir gently to prevent sticking!
Is Locrio de Pollo suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! This dish can easily be adjusted to cater to different dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, ensure all broths and sauces are gluten-free. If you have nut allergies, just avoid any oils that might contain nuts. Vegetarians can swap out the chicken for mushrooms or chickpeas, keeping the flavor and heartiness intact.
Savory Locrio de Pollo: A Cozy Dominican Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs and drumsticks with salt, oregano, adobo, Sazón, smoked paprika, cilantro, culantro, black pepper, bell pepper, onion, celery, garlic, capers, olives, lime juice, and sour orange. Mix well and let it marinate for 30 minutes to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
- Heat the avocado oil in a cast iron pan over medium heat. Add the coconut sugar and allow it to caramelize for about 30 seconds before adding the marinated chicken. Sear the chicken for 1-2 minutes until golden brown on all sides.
- Stir in the Loisa Sofrito along with the marinated vegetables. Then, add the diced auyama, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Mix everything thoroughly and bring it to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, add the rice to the mixture and stir to help prevent sticking. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, cooking for 15 minutes. After that, uncover and give it a gentle stir, then cover again and cook for another 5-10 minutes until the rice is firm yet tender.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and serve it warm, garnishing with fresh cilantro. Pair with sliced avocado or crispy tostones for an added treat!