Pollo a la Crema or Creamy Chicken, is a popular Mexican dish made with chicken and a creamy sauce. It is a delicious and comforting meal that can be enjoyed with rice, beans or tortillas.
If you are in search of a good Pollo a la Crema recipe, then you are at the right place. Here, we have shared a detailed guide for the process of making Pollo a la Crema at home like a pro.
Source: Inmamamaggieskitchen.com
Origin of the Dish Pollo A La Crema
Pollo a la Crema is a Mexican dish that originated in the central state of Puebla. The dish is believed to have been created during the colonial period, when Spanish influences mixed with indigenous cooking techniques and ingredients.
The dish is similar to many other cream-based chicken dishes found in other cultures, such as French Chicken Fricassee and Indian Butter Chicken. However, Pollo a la Crema has its own unique flavor and ingredients that make it distinctly Mexican.
The dish consists of chicken pieces cooked in a creamy sauce made with heavy cream, chicken broth and spices. The spices used in the dish, such as cumin and smoked paprika, are common in Mexican cuisine and give the dish its characteristic flavor. The dish is usually served with rice, beans or tortillas.
Pollo a la Crema is a popular dish in Mexican cuisine and can be found in the menu of many restaurants and homes throughout the country. It is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Pollo A La Crema Recipe
Here is a list of ingredients and a step-by-step guide to create a perfect Pollo a la Crema recipe.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Guide
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Mix well and set aside.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
- Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed with salt, pepper, and additional spices.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Tips for Cooking Pollo a la Crema
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Use high-quality chicken:
The quality of the chicken will affect the overall flavor and texture of the dish. Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for the best results.
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Don’t overcook the chicken:
Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Cook the chicken just until it’s cooked through to maintain its juiciness.
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Use heavy cream for a richer sauce:
Heavy cream will give the sauce a rich and creamy texture. Don’t substitute with lighter creams, as they will not give a rich texture to the gravy.
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Adjust seasoning to taste:
Everyone’s taste preferences are different, so be sure to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
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Use Greek Yogurt:
If you want to make the dish healthier, you can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt. This will give the dish a tangy flavor and reduce the calorie and fat content.
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Add vegetables:
You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the dish to make it more nutritious and flavorful.
Things to Keep in Mind While Cooking Polla A La Crema
It is always better to experiment with different spices. Although the recipe we provided includes cumin, smoked paprika and chili powder, you can always add other spices of your liking and experiment to create a different taste. Try adding oregano, coriander or even a touch of cinnamon for a unique flavor enhancement.
It is recommended to use a bone-in chicken for making Pollo a la Crema. The bone-in chicken will provide a richer flavor to the dish without over drying the meat. However, bone-in chicken will require a longer cooking time to ensure that it is fully cooked.
What is Mexican food without spice? Make sure to add plenty of chili and spice to create an amazing hot flavor. If you like your food spicy, you can add a chopped jalapeno pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dish. This will give the dish a nice kick of heat.
Use a cast-iron skillet for best possible results. A cast-iron skillet will give the chicken a nice crust and help to evenly distribute the heat. If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, a heavy-bottomed stainless steel or non-stick skillet will work just fine.
Last but not the least, rest the chicken after cooking. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking it before adding the cream sauce. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the chicken more tender.
Overview
Pollo a la Crema is a delicious and comforting dish that can be easily made at home. Its origins can be traced back to the colonial period in Mexico, where it was created through the blending of Spanish and indigenous influences. Today, it is a beloved dish that’s enjoyed by many and its unique flavor and ingredients make it a standout in Mexican cuisine.
By following these tips and tricks closely, you can create a perfect version of the dish that suits your taste and preferences. Remember to use high-quality chicken, not overcook it, and adjust the seasoning to your taste. This dish is perfect for a comforting meal with friends and family, and can be enjoyed with rice, beans or tortillas.
Take time and create the dish in the Pollo a la crema recipe and enjoy your time with tender and creamy chicken dish.
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