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Pollo en Salsa

Costa Rican · Dinner · Easy

Pollo en Salsa

Total
1 hr 5 min
Prep
15 min
Serves
4
Calories
375
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Achiote gives pressure-cooked chicken thighs a warm red sauce, with tomato, pepper and onion softening into the savory broth.

The pressure cooker turns pollo en salsa into tender chicken with a generous spoonable sauce. Achiote colors the broth, while cumin, oregano and garlic season the vegetables as they soften around the thighs.

Use bone-in thighs and allow time for the pot to come to pressure and release naturally. The sauce is deliberately loose; a short uncovered simmer afterward concentrates it for spooning over the meat.

SavoryHerbyInstant PotWeeknightDairy-freeNut-freeEgg-freeHigh-protein

Method

  1. Set a 6-quart electric pressure cooker to saute. Add olive oil, onion, tomato and red bell pepper and cook for until softened. Stir in garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, black pepper and achiote paste for .

  2. Add chicken stock and scrape the base thoroughly to release any stuck pieces. Nestle chicken thighs into the liquid, then lock the lid and close the pressure valve.

  3. Cook at high pressure for once the pot reaches pressure. Let pressure release naturally for , then release any remainder and open the lid. Check that chicken reaches 165°F.

  4. Transfer chicken to a plate. Simmer the sauce on saute for until slightly reduced, stirring occasionally. Return chicken to the sauce and spoon the vegetables and juices over it.

Forkue tips

  • For a smoother sauce, lift out the chicken and briefly blend the vegetables into the broth before reducing it.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate chicken in its sauce for up to 3 days, or freeze for 2 months. Reheat covered in a saucepan over low heat until hot, adding a little water if the sauce has thickened.

Kitchen gear

Electric pressure cookerTop picks on AmazonInstant read thermometerTop picks on Amazon
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Nutrition per serving, estimated

375Calories
32gProtein
7gCarbs
24gFat

Pollo en Salsa: FAQ

What can I use instead of achiote paste?

Sweet paprika gives a similar warm color, though the earthy flavor will be milder. Start with the same amount and stir it into the vegetables.

Why does the cooker show a burn warning?

Vegetables or seasoning may be stuck to the base. Cancel cooking, release pressure as directed by your appliance and scrape the bottom before restarting.

How do I store and reheat Pollo en Salsa?

Refrigerate chicken in its sauce for up to 3 days, or freeze for 2 months. Reheat covered in a saucepan over low heat until hot, adding a little water if the sauce has thickened.

How long does Pollo en Salsa take?

About 1 hr 5 min in total: 15 min prep and 50 min cooking.

What do I need to make Pollo en Salsa?

The key ingredients are chicken thighs, dried oregano, ground cumin, achiote paste, garlic and onion, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Pollo en Salsa?

For a smoother sauce, lift out the chicken and briefly blend the vegetables into the broth before reducing it.

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