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Max Abroad : The Best of Spain

Quite simply writing about the best things Spain has to offer and anything that might crop up along the way. Spain is a lot more than just sun, sand and sea...

Spain's Garlic Chicken: Pollo al Ajillo
Saturday, March 8, 2025 @ 1:36 AM

Indulge in the sumptuous flavours of Spain with this delightful garlic chicken recipe, known locally as Pollo al Ajillo. This dish stands out not only for its aromatic and rich flavours but also for its mysterious origins, with hints of culinary influence from regions like Castilla y León and Andalusia.

Pollo al Ajillo is a must-try for anyone looking to bring a taste of Spain into their kitchen. The enchanting aroma of garlic and white wine fills the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that makes it impossible to resist.

This recipe holds a special place in many Spanish households, and mine is no exception. Taught to me by my mother-in-law, it was one of her culinary masterpieces. The scent that wafted through our home whenever she prepared it is an unforgettable memory. The anticipation built as the aroma grew stronger, signalling that a delicious meal was on its way.

 

Ingredients for 4 Servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour

Note: Measurements are provided in both metric and USA imperial systems. For British/Canadian measurements, please use a metric conversion calculator.

  • 1 large chicken, cut into smaller pieces (wings, drumsticks, legs, etc)
  • 7 garlic cloves, pierced with a knife
  • 200 ml (7 fl oz) dry white wine
  • Some olive oil
  • 150 ml chicken stock or water
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into large chunks
  • 100 g (3.5 oz) peeled and diced tomato 
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tbsp oregano

Method

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Brown the Chicken: In a large frying pan, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides until they develop a golden crust.
  3. Add Vegetables and Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium and add the tomato, red bell pepper, and pierced garlic cloves. Sauté them for a few minutes to allow the flavours to meld.
  4. Incorporate Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the chicken stock (or water) and the dry white wine. Stir the mixture well and taste to adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  5. Season and Simmer: Add thyme and oregano to the pan. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer on medium-low heat for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmering process allows the chicken to become tender and soak up all the wonderful flavours.
  6. Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce appears too thin, let it reduce by continuing to cook uncovered. Some chefs prefer to use a bit of cornstarch or flour to thicken the sauce, but this is optional.

Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Chicken

  • Browning the Chicken: Ensure the chicken pieces are well-browned before adding the other ingredients. This step enhances the overall flavour of the dish.
  • Pierce the Garlic Cloves: Piercing the garlic cloves allows the aroma and flavour to infuse deeply into the sauce.
  • Choosing the Pan: Use a large frying pan with a lid to facilitate even cooking and simmering.
  • Selecting the Wine: Any inexpensive dry white wine will do. Don't bother splurging on an expensive bottle.
  • Olive Oil: Use a moderate amount of olive oil. Too much oil can prevent the sauce from binding correctly.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic chicken pairs wonderfully with fries and a side of mayonnaise. However, for those who prefer a softer accompaniment, mashed potatoes are an excellent alternative. Both options wonderfully complement the rich and garlicky sauce.

Kitchen Tools You Will Need

  • Meat knife
  • Paring knife
  • Large frying pan with a lid
  • Measuring jug
  • Teaspoon
  • Kitchen scales
  • Cutting board

Adding Your Personal Touch

Don’t feel restricted to using a whole chicken for this recipe. It works just as well with just drumsticks, wings, or legs, depending on your preference. Ensure you have enough of whichever part you choose to use.

While this recipe traditionally calls for dry white wine, experimenting with a Jerez wine or even a semi-dry variety can yield delicious results. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding some chilies can introduce an exciting kick to the dish, creating a spicier version of garlic chicken.

Garlic chicken, or Pollo al Ajillo, is a celebration of Spanish cuisine that can easily be recreated in your kitchen. With its combination of garlic, white wine, and tender chicken, it’s a dish that promises to delight your taste buds and impress your dinner guests. Whether served with fries, mashed potatoes, or a side of rice, this dish brings the rich culinary heritage of Spain to your table.

Take a moment to gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the mouthwatering aromas and flavours that make garlic chicken a cherished recipe in Spanish households. Happy cooking!



Like 2




4 Comments


crostrad said:
Sunday, March 9, 2025 @ 3:09 PM

I would like to try cooking this. Can you tell me what are "tomato cubes"
thanks


paul said:
Monday, March 10, 2025 @ 11:28 AM

Hi, I would also like to know what "tomatoe cubes" are please.


Max Abroad said:
Monday, March 10, 2025 @ 11:32 AM

Sorry, that should read diced tomatoes. My Spanglish is taking over! My mother-in-law always says cubitos!


crostrad said:
Wednesday, March 12, 2025 @ 8:47 PM

Thanks, for a minute there I thought that Oxo cubes had introduced a new variant.
I shall get some Heinz chopped tomato. Looking forward to giving this a try at the weekend. Thanks for the inspiration.


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