Plantain Stuffed Chicken (Pollo Relleno de Plátano)

This Pollo Relleno de Plátano (Plantain Stuffed Chicken) recipe is a traditional Nicaraguan dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken and sweet plantains. The dish is perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Main Course Nicaraguan Nicaraguan Cuisine Chicken Recipe Stuffed Chicken Plantain Recipe
Plantain Stuffed Chicken (Pollo Relleno de Plátano)

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced lengthwise
  • 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup of chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Using a sharp knife, make a pocket in each chicken breast by cutting horizontally through the thickest part of the breast.
  3. Place 2 plantain slices and a quarter of the mozzarella cheese inside each chicken breast pocket. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts until golden brown on all sides, about 3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened. Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  6. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the skillet and cook until the sauce thickens.
  7. Return the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
  8. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the stuffed chicken before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Large skillet Sharp knife Baking dish

Tools

Oven

Serving suggestions

Serve the Pollo Relleno de Plátano with a side of rice and black beans for a complete Nicaraguan meal.

Tips & tricks

For a twist, try adding a sprinkle of Nicaraguan chili powder for a spicy kick to the dish.

Cost

$20