Pollo en Pepián (Chicken in Pepián Sauce)

Chicken in Pepián Sauce (Pollo en Pepián) is a traditional Guatemalan dish that features tender chicken simmered in a rich and flavorful sauce made with a blend of roasted spices, seeds, and vegetables.

Pollo en Pepián (Chicken in Pepián Sauce)

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken pieces
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 tomatoes, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/4 cup sesame seeds
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
  • 2 dried guajillo chilies
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp coriander
  • 1/2 tsp achiote powder
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Toast the sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, and dried chilies in a dry skillet until fragrant.
  2. Transfer the toasted seeds and chilies to a blender and add the cumin, coriander, achiote powder, and 1 cup of chicken broth. Blend until smooth.
  3. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then brown them in a large pot over medium heat. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they release their juices.
  5. Pour the blended seed and spice mixture into the pot, then return the browned chicken pieces and add the remaining chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  6. Serve the Chicken in Pepián Sauce with rice and garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

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

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
15g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Large pot Skillet Blender

Tools

Knife Cutting board Wooden spoon

Serving suggestions

Serving suggestions: Serve the Chicken in Pepián Sauce with rice and warm tortillas for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

Tips: Adjust the spiciness of the sauce by adding more or fewer dried chilies to suit your preference.

Cost

$15