Savory Locrio de Pollo: A Cozy Dominican Delight

Locrio de Pollo is a beloved Dominican comfort food that combines marinated chicken and flavorful rice.

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 30

Marination Time 30

Total Time 1 30

Servings: 6 servings

Course: DINNER

Cuisine: Dominican

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 lbs chicken thighs and drumsticks Tender cuts great for marinating and absorbing flavors.
1.5 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 whole 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.
0.25 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.
1 whole lime, juiced Enhances brightness; lemon juice is a suitable swap.
1 whole sour orange (optional), juiced 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.

Equipment

large bowl
Cast iron pan

Method

Step by Step Instructions

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!

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Serve with a wedge of lime for extra zest. Ensure to store leftovers properly in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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