The history of Pollo Al Ajillo

Pollo al Ajillo, which translates to “Garlic Chicken” in English, is a classic Spanish dish known for its rich flavors and simplicity. 

The exact origins of Pollo al Ajillo are not well-documented, but it is believed to have its roots in the Andalusia region, in southern Spain. Andalusian cuisine is known for its use of garlic and olive oil, and these are two key ingredients in this dish. These are both pantry staples in Spanish kitchens everywhere now. 

Pollo al Ajillo has become popular not only in Spain but also in many Spanish-speaking countries and regions around the world. It has also influenced variations of garlic chicken dishes in other cuisines. The dish’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its delicious taste and ease of preparation, making it a favorite in both home kitchens and restaurants.

Authentic Ingredients For Pollo Al Ajillo

Chicken 

Typically, chicken pieces like thighs or drumsticks are used. You can use bone-in or boneless chicken, depending on your preference. Reduce cooking time slightly if you use boneless pieces. If you want some boneless chicken recipes try this Mediterranean chicken simmered in sofrito and spicy paprika or chicken with peaches and sherry recipe. 

Garlic 

As the name suggests, garlic is a central ingredient in this dish. You’ll need at least several cloves of garlic, which are usually minced or thinly sliced. We love to add a whole head of garlic in the middle for presentation and people can pick how many cloves they want on their plate once served. The garlic is also what provides the dish with its distinctive flavor.

Olive Oil 

Excellent quality extra virgin olive oil is used both for coating the chicken and for sautéing it in the pan. We’ve got plenty of great olive oil options available in our 15 of the Best Spanish Olive Oils to Try (2023) article and now we have our article live on the best olive oils in 2024, including where to buy them overseas. 

Paprika 

While we didn’t use paprika in this particular recipe, it’s common to find it in pollo al ajillo recipes. Sweet or smoked paprika is added to give the dish a rich, earthy flavor and a hint of smokiness. Feel free to add some if you like. We use it in nearly of our main meal recipes, including baked Mediterranean chicken thighs.

Sherry 

Dry sherry helps to deglaze the pan and create a flavorful sauce. It adds depth to the dish. Note that while some of the alcohol is evaporated while cooking, just cooking it for 30 minutes means some will still remain. If you don’t have dry sherry, use white wine. Sherry goes great with chicken and is used in many Spanish recipes. Another one to try is pollo al horno (oven-baked chicken with sherry). 

Fresh Herbs 

We used fresh rosemary to give this classic recipe a delicious boost of flavor. Other fresh herbs to use include thyme, oregano, or even parsley. If you love rosemary too, another great chicken recipe is Mediterranean garlic rosemary boneless chicken thighs. 

Seasoning 

Salt and pepper are most commonly used to season the chicken and the sauce to taste. We opt for ground white pepper as it is milder and allows other flavors to shine through. 

Optional seasoning ingredients can include chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat and flavor variation. Love your spice? Try Spanish chicken in smoky bravas sauce.

Is Pollo Al Ajillo Healthy? 

Like any recipe, using fresh unprocessed ingredients and serving with modest portion sizes is key to a healthy meal. This recipe is made using just a few ingredients and sourcing good quality (free range) chicken will help improve the flavor of this recipe. 

The same goes for olive oil. Use good quality extra virgin olive oil as EVOO is considered the healthiest of all oils. Check out the health benefits and nutrition facts for EVOO in this article: Olive Oil Nutrition Facts and how it can benefit your health. 

Proven Health Benefits of Olive Oil

• Oleic acid is the main fatty acid in olive oil. It has been linked to many benefits, including heart, skin, and brain health. 
• Olive oil, especially EVOO is also high in antioxidants. Antioxidants are known to help prevent or treat many chronic diseases. 
• Olive oil also contains minerals like potassium, calcium, and iron, and vitamins E and K.

To make Pollo al Ajillo a healthier option:

• Use skinless, boneless chicken.
• Control portion sizes.
• Serve it with a variety of vegetables or a side salad and whole grains to make it a more balanced meal.

Overall, Pollo al Ajillo can be a relatively healthy dish when prepared with attention to ingredient choices and portion control. It can be part of a well-rounded diet, especially if it’s enjoyed alongside other nutritious foods.

FAQs and Cooking Tips

Can I use boneless chicken for Pollo al Ajillo? 

Yes, you can use boneless chicken if you prefer. It will cook faster and may result in a lighter dish. 

What can I serve with Pollo al Ajillo? 

Pollo al Ajillo pairs well with crusty bread or some steamed rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I use different spices in Pollo al Ajillo? 

Sure, some recipe variations include cayenne pepper for extra heat. Ground chili or chili flakes are also a great option for some added heat. 

How do I store leftovers? 

Store any leftover Pollo al Ajillo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, in the oven, or in the microwave.

Nutrition Facts