Puerto Rican Chicken

Fully flavored, this Puerto Rican chicken recipe is the perfect oven-baked dish to have on hand! It’s suitable for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in. Bursting with spices and flavor, this recipe showcases the vibrant culinary traditions of Puerto Rico. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have a delightful meal ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and seasonings ensures every bite is packed with authentic Puerto Rican flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, salad, or your favorite sides to create a complete meal that suits any palate.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this delicious Puerto Rican chicken, ensure you have the right tools ready. Having everything prepared will streamline the cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Large bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Basting brush (optional)
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: A sturdy baking tray ensures even cooking and easy handling of the chicken.
• Large bowl: Mixing ingredients in a large bowl helps evenly coat the chicken with seasonings without making a mess.

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Ingredients

• 3 pounds of drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 1 packet of Sazon seasoning
• 2 tablespoons of sofrito (optional)

How to Make Puerto Rican Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Toss chicken and remaining ingredients together into a large bowl.
2. Gently mix to coat chicken with seasonings.
3. Allow chicken to marinate for 2-24 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

1. Arrange marinated chicken on a baking tray in a single layer.
2. Bake for 30 minutes.
3. Flip the chicken over and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
4. Raise oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for the final 5-10 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Enjoy your Puerto Rican chicken with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Puerto Rican Chicken

Serving Puerto Rican chicken is a delightful experience that can elevate your dinner table. This flavorful dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, allowing you to create a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Cilantro – Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the chicken for a burst of freshness.
• Lemon Wedges – Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty kick that complements the flavors nicely.

Accompaniments

• Rice and Beans – Traditional Puerto Rican rice and beans offer a hearty side that balances the meal.
• Salad – A simple green salad can add crunch and freshness, enhancing your dining experience.

Wrap It Up

• Tortillas – Use soft tortillas to wrap leftover chicken for a tasty handheld meal.
• Sandwiches – Shred the chicken and serve it in sandwiches with avocado and salsa for a quick lunch option.

How to Perfect Puerto Rican Chicken

Perfecting Puerto Rican chicken requires attention to detail. With just a few tips, you can enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Bold Seasoning – Ensure you use enough seasoning to deeply flavor the chicken, especially if marinating overnight.
• Marinate Longer – Allowing the chicken to marinate for 24 hours will infuse it with even more flavor.
• High Heat Finish – Increasing the oven temperature towards the end of baking creates a crispy skin that’s irresistible.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic or homemade sofrito can elevate the taste compared to dried versions.

Best Side Dishes for Puerto Rican Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Puerto Rican chicken can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some popular options:

1. Moro de Gandules – This is rice cooked with pigeon peas, offering rich flavors that complement the chicken perfectly.
2. Tostones – Crispy fried green plantains provide a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
3. Avocado Salad – A refreshing salad with ripe avocado adds creaminess and balance to your plate.
4. Yuca con Mojo – Boiled yuca served with garlic sauce is hearty and pairs well with baked chicken.
5. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread brings a touch of sweetness that offsets savory flavors in the dish.
6. Fried Sweet Plantains (Maduros) – These caramelized plantains add natural sweetness, making them an excellent side dish choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Puerto Rican chicken even more delicious. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for marinating can result in bland chicken. Aim for a minimum of 2 hours, but overnight is best.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap spices and seasonings can affect the flavor. Invest in fresh herbs and quality sofrito for a richer taste.
• Overcrowding the Baking Tray: Placing too many pieces of chicken on one tray can lead to uneven cooking. Use multiple trays or cook in batches to ensure even browning.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking without preheating may lead to longer cooking times and uneven results. Always preheat your oven to ensure perfect cooking.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Failing to check the internal temperature can lead to undercooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Puerto Rican chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Puerto Rican Chicken

• Freeze cooked chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can last for up to 2-3 months when properly stored.

Reheating Puerto Rican Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat chicken for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Puerto Rican chicken that may help enhance your cooking experience.

How can I make my Puerto Rican Chicken spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the marinating process to give it an extra kick.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute drumsticks with thighs or breasts based on your preference.

What should I serve with Puerto Rican Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I store leftover Puerto Rican Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 2-3 months.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate and bake the chicken ahead of time and simply reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Puerto Rican chicken recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or sides for an even more enjoyable experience!

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Puerto Rican Chicken

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Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rican Chicken, an irresistible oven-baked dish that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in. This recipe celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Puerto Rico, featuring juicy chicken marinated in a blend of spices that create a flavor explosion with every bite. The simplicity of preparation and the delightful aroma wafting from your kitchen will make this dish a favorite for any occasion. Serve it alongside rice, salad, or your preferred sides to create a complete meal that delights everyone at your table.

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 pounds of chicken drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 packet Sazon seasoning
• 2 tablespoons sofrito (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine chicken and all seasonings. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Marinate the mixture in the refrigerator for 2 to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Arrange marinated chicken on a baking tray in a single layer and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Flip the chicken and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
6. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for another 5-10 minutes until golden brown.
7. Let it rest briefly before serving.

• Author: Emmeline
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Puerto Rican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 3 oz (85g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For added spice, incorporate red pepper flakes during marination. Feel free to substitute drumsticks with thighs or breasts based on preference. This dish pairs well with traditional rice and beans or a refreshing salad.