Chicken Chilindrón is a hearty Spanish dish packed with bold Mediterranean flavors, and it’s no surprise that a culinary maestro like Jamie Oliver is a fan. This rustic recipe originates from the Aragón region of Spain and showcases a delightful mix of sweet peppers, smoky paprika, and tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato and wine sauce. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, Chicken Chilindrón is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table.
Here’s everything you need to know to make this vibrant and flavorful dish:
Ingredients for preparing chicken chilendron:
For the Chicken:
- 6–8 chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Chilindrón Sauce:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 red bell peppers, sliced
- 2 green bell peppers, sliced
- 100g (3.5 oz) Serrano ham or smoked bacon, diced
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 400g (14 oz) canned chopped tomatoes
- 150ml (2/3 cup) dry white wine
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step by step cooking chicken chilendron:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken pieces dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Build the Sauce:
- In the same pan, add the diced Serrano ham or bacon and cook until crispy.
- Add the onions and garlic, cooking until softened and aromatic.
- Toss in the bell peppers and sauté until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Add Spices and Liquids:
- Stir in the smoked paprika, sweet paprika, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 1 minute to release their aromas.
- Pour in the white wine and simmer for 2–3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add the canned tomatoes, chicken stock, and bay leaves, stirring well to combine.
- Simmer the Chicken:
- Return the chicken pieces to the pan, nestling them into the sauce.
- Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pan, and cook for 30–40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Serve:
- Discard the bay leaves and garnish the dish with fresh parsley.
- Serve the Chicken Chilindrón with crusty bread, roasted potatoes, or a side of white rice to soak up the luscious sauce.
Why Jamie Oliver Loves It
Jamie Oliver appreciates recipes that celebrate local ingredients and traditional techniques, and Chicken Chilindrón is a perfect fit. This dish strikes a balance between bold, smoky flavors and comforting textures. It’s simple enough for home cooks to replicate but impressive enough to showcase at any dinner table.
Whether you’re an experienced chef or just starting your culinary journey, Chicken Chilindrón is a recipe worth adding to your repertoire. Enjoy it with loved ones, and savor a little taste of Spain in every bite
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of depth, you can add a handful of black olives or roasted piquillo peppers during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Jamie Oliver’s Favourite Recipe: Chicken Chilindrón
Description
Chicken Chilindrón is a hearty Spanish dish packed with bold Mediterranean flavors, and it's no surprise that a culinary maestro like Jamie Oliver is a fan.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 375kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Saturated Fat 6g30%
- Cholesterol 110mg37%
- Sodium 750mg32%
- Potassium 800mg23%
- Total Carbohydrate 12g4%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 8g
- Protein 30g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Key Nutritional Highlights:
- High in Protein: Great for muscle repair and maintenance.
- Rich in Vitamins: The bell peppers and tomatoes provide a good dose of vitamins A, C, and K.
- Mineral Content: Contains potassium, calcium, and iron for healthy body functions.
- Moderate Fat Content: Mostly from olive oil and chicken skin, which can be reduced if needed.
Tips for Healthier Modifications:
- Reduce Sodium: Use low-sodium chicken stock and limit added salt.
- Lower Fat: Remove the chicken skin before cooking or use chicken breast instead of thighs.
- Increase Fiber: Serve with a side of whole grains like brown rice or quinoa.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Swap chicken for chickpeas or mushrooms and skip the ham.
These estimates may vary slightly based on exact ingredient quantities and brands used.
