Puerto Rican Chicken

Fully flavored, this Puerto Rican chicken recipe is the perfect oven-baked dish to have on hand! Whether for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or meal prep for the week, this recipe brings vibrant flavors that are sure to impress. The combination of spices and marination creates a succulent meal that stands out. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and cook, making it ideal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, you can create a delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of garlic powder, oregano, and Sazon seasoning infuses the chicken with bold Puerto Rican flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, salad, or your favorite sides to create a complete meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate the chicken in advance to save time on busy days.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a celebration, this dish fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering your tools before starting will streamline the cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need to make Puerto Rican chicken:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Tray: Provides an even surface for cooking the chicken thoroughly and allows for easy flipping.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Ensures ample space for combining ingredients and marinating the chicken without mess.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 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: Prepare the Marinade

1. Toss the drumsticks with garlic powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, Sazon seasoning, and sofrito in a large mixing bowl.
2. Gently mix until all pieces are coated evenly with the seasoning blend.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
2. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor absorption.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

1. Arrange the marinated drumsticks on a baking tray in a single layer.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
3. Flip each piece over and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes.
4. Increase heat to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for an extra 5-10 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

1. Once cooked through and crispy on the outside, remove from oven.
2. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving alongside your favorite sides.

Enjoy your delicious Puerto Rican chicken!

How to Serve Puerto Rican Chicken

Serving Puerto Rican chicken is an opportunity to showcase its rich flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

With Rice

• White Rice: A classic accompaniment that balances the savory flavors of the chicken.
• Arroz con Gandules: A traditional rice dish with pigeon peas, adding a festive touch to your meal.

With Vegetables

• Sauteed Peppers and Onions: Quick-cooked vegetables that add color and a sweet flavor contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender for a healthy side option.

With Sauces

• Garlic Sauce: Drizzle over the chicken for an extra kick of flavor.
• Avocado Sauce: A creamy, refreshing sauce that complements the spices in the chicken.

How to Perfect Puerto Rican Chicken

To ensure your Puerto Rican chicken is flavorful and tender, keep these tips in mind:

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer than 2 hours will enhance its flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and spices whenever possible for a brighter taste.
• Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to guarantee even cooking.
• Check Internal Temperature: Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Best Side Dishes for Puerto Rican Chicken

Pairing your Puerto Rican chicken with delicious sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mofongo: A mashed plantain dish mixed with garlic and pork cracklings; you can substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter version.
2. Tostones: Twice-fried green plantains that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside; perfect for dipping.
3. Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime; adds a refreshing contrast to the chicken.
4. Corn Salad: A vibrant mix of corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing; it’s light and complements the hearty chicken well.
5. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide protein and fiber while enhancing the dish’s Latin flair.
6. Coconut Rice: Rice cooked in coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness that pairs nicely with savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Puerto Rican chicken can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Ignoring marination time: Skipping the marination process can lead to bland chicken. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) enhances the flavor.
• Overcrowding the baking tray: Placing too many pieces of chicken on one tray prevents even cooking. Use a larger tray or bake in batches for better results.
• Not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat your oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to the desired temperature before placing chicken inside.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Using store-bought Sazon seasoning may not suit everyone’s taste. Adjust seasonings according to your preference for a personalized flavor profile.
• Neglecting the final broil: Missing the final broil step can leave your chicken less crispy. Broiling for a few minutes at the end adds a delightful crunch to the skin.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Puerto Rican Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Properly stored, it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Puerto Rican Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium heat for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to prevent drying out.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm chicken for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring it’s heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Puerto Rican chicken.

What is Puerto Rican Chicken?

Puerto Rican chicken is a flavorful dish often seasoned with garlic, oregano, and Sazon, reflecting traditional Boricua flavors.

Can I use different cuts of chicken?

Yes! While drumsticks are great, you can also use thighs or breasts depending on your preference for juiciness and tenderness.

How do I make Puerto Rican Chicken spicier?

To add heat, incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into your seasoning mix before marinating.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

You can substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms, using similar seasonings for flavor without meat.

How long does it take to make Puerto Rican Chicken?

From prep to finish, this dish takes about 65 minutes, including marination time. The hands-on prep is minimal!

Final Thoughts

This Puerto Rican chicken recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite spices or adjusting ingredients based on what you have at home. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings—give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Puerto Rican Chicken

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Enjoy a taste of Puerto Rico with this vibrant and flavorful Puerto Rican Chicken recipe. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, this oven-baked dish is both succulent and easy to prepare. The marinated chicken drumsticks are infused with a delightful blend of garlic, oregano, and Sazon seasoning, creating an irresistible flavor profile that will impress your guests. Serve it alongside rice, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. With minimal effort required in the kitchen, this recipe is ideal for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive celebration.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 pounds 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)

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drumsticks with garlic powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, Sazon seasoning, and sofrito. Mix until evenly coated.
2. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Arrange the marinated drumsticks on a baking tray in a single layer and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Flip the chicken and continue baking for another 20 minutes.
6. Increase the heat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden brown.
7. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 65 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Puerto Rican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 5 drumsticks (250g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 45g
• Cholesterol: 150mg