Indulge in the savory flavors of the Caribbean with our authentic Chicharrón de Pollo recipe straight from the heart of the Dominican Republic. Tender chicken pieces marinated in a blend of zesty herbs and spices, then perfectly fried to crispy perfection, creating a tantalizing golden crust that locks in all the delicious juices. This beloved Dominican dish is not just a meal, it's a culinary journey, delivering a burst of flavor with every bite. Serve it up with traditional sides like tostones or rice and beans for an unforgettable taste of island cuisine. Whether it's a family gathering or a casual dinner, Chicharrón de Pollo is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that transports your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Caribbean.

Ingredients:

For the marinade:

• 2 lbs chicken pieces (such as thighs, drumsticks, or breast strips)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 cup sour orange juice (can substitute with a mix of orange and lime juice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For frying:

• Vegetable oil, for frying

For serving:

• Tostones (fried green plantains) or yuca (cassava), cooked and seasoned

Instructions:

1- In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, onion powder, chili powder, sour orange juice, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.

2- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.

3- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

4- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

5- Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.

6- Fry the chicken pieces until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the size of the pieces. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

7- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

8- Serve the crispy Chicharrón de Pollo hot alongside tostones or yuca for an authentic Dominican dining experience.

9- Enjoy your flavorful and crispy Chicharrón de Pollo with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside a refreshing salad for a complete meal. Buena provecho!

Nutritional Values:

Here's an approximate nutritional breakdown for the ingredients in the Chicharrón de Pollo recipe:

Chicken:

• 2 lbs chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breast strips)
• Calories: Approximately 1100 kcal
• Protein: Approximately 220g
• Fat: Approximately 30g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Provides essential vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, iron, and zinc, which are important for overall health and energy metabolism.

Garlic, Minced (4 cloves):

• Calories: Approximately 16 kcal
• Protein: Approximately 0.7g
• Fat: Approximately 0g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 3.5g
• Fiber: Approximately 0.2g

benefits:

• Contains compounds with potent medicinal properties, including allicin, which has been shown to have antibacterial and antiviral properties.
• May help lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels, promoting heart health.
• Contains antioxidants that may reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases and boost the immune system.

Spices (oregano, cumin, paprika, onion powder, chili powder):

• Negligible caloric content

benefits:

• Each spice offers its unique flavor profile and may have various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Cumin, for example, has been linked to improved digestion and may help with blood sugar control.
• Paprika is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which may support immune function and reduce inflammation.

Sour Orange Juice (1/4 cup):

• Calories: Approximately 13 kcal
• Protein: Approximately 0.3g
• Fat: Approximately 0g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 3.5g
• Fiber: Approximately 0g

benefits:

• Provides a tangy flavor to the marinade and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Contains vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune health and collagen production.

Vegetable Oil (for frying):

• Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per tablespoon
• Fat: Approximately 14g per tablespoon
• No protein, carbohydrates, or fiber

benefits:

• Provides energy-dense calories and adds crispiness to the chicken.
• Contains unsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are important for heart health when consumed in moderation

Tostones (for serving):

• Nutritional values will depend on the amount consumed and the specific preparation method (typically made from green plantains, which are low in fat and high in carbohydrates)

benefits:

• Made from green plantains, which are a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy.
• Contains dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

Yuca (for serving):

• Nutritional values will depend on the amount consumed and the specific preparation method (yuca is starchy and provides carbohydrates, along with some fiber and a small amount of protein)

benefits:

• High in carbohydrates, providing energy for the body.
• Contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes feelings of fullness.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, folate, and potassium, which are essential for various bodily functions.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as portion size, specific ingredients used, and cooking methods.