Colombian Chicken and Potato Stew – A Bowl of Comfort from Colombia

Introduction to Traditional Colombian Stew

If you’ve ever craved a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, Colombian Chicken and Potato Stew is exactly that. This Traditional Colombian Stew, also known as Pollo y Papa Guiso Colombiano, is a cozy blend of tender chicken, soft potatoes, sweet vegetables, and fragrant spices simmered together until everything melts into comfort.

The aroma alone tells a story—garlic sizzling in olive oil, cumin blooming in the pot, and a whiff of cilantro that takes you straight to a Colombian kitchen. Think of it as a lighter, home-style cousin of Colombian Ajiaco-style stew, simple enough for a weeknight but rich enough for Sunday family dinner.

Growing up, I remember my grandmother’s version simmering away while we set the table. The broth would bubble softly, and we knew the day was about to end with something warm, hearty, and full of love.

Why You’ll Love This Authentic Colombian Chicken Recipe

1. Authentic Flavor – This Colombian Chicken Stew uses classic seasonings like cumin, paprika, and cilantro for that truly traditional taste.
2. Comforting and Hearty – The perfect Colombian comfort food—a stew that satisfies body and soul.
3. Easy Preparation – No fancy tricks, just solid home cooking.
4. Healthy Ingredients – Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
5. Versatile Dish – Works as a stew, soup, or a one-pot meal.
6. Perfect for Meal Prep – Keeps beautifully, so you can enjoy leftovers for days.

Ingredients for Chicken and Potato Stew Colombia

• 2 lb chicken thighs (bone-in, skinless)
• 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp lime juice (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: sliced avocado and extra cilantro for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Homemade Colombian Chicken Stew

1. Heat the Oil
   Warm olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until it shimmers.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
   Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until soft and fragrant—this forms the flavor foundation of your Colombian Chicken Stew.
3. Brown the Chicken
   Add the chicken thighs and let them brown on both sides. This builds flavor and depth.
4. Add Spices for Traditional Colombian Flavor
   Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let them toast for 30 seconds to bloom.
5. Incorporate Broth and Vegetables
   Pour in the chicken broth, then add potatoes, carrots, and the bay leaf. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer the Colombian Chicken and Vegetable Stew
   Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the potatoes are soft.
7. Finish with Lime and Cilantro
   Stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro to brighten the flavors.
8. Shred the Chicken
   Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
9. Serve the Colombian Ajiaco-style Stew Hot
   Ladle into bowls, garnish with avocado and cilantro, and serve warm.

How to Serve Colombian Chicken Soup and Potato Stew

1. Presentation – Serve in wide bowls for that rustic, homey look.
2. Accompaniments – Pair with rice or arepas for a classic Chicken and Potato Stew Colombia experience.
3. Garnishes – Top with cilantro, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
4. Beverage Pairing – Pairs well with a cold beer or light white wine.
5. Leftovers – Store and reheat for even deeper flavor the next day.

Additional Tips for the Perfect Colombian Comfort Food

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Adjust salt and spices to your preference.
• Let the stew rest before serving—it intensifies the flavor.
• Add a crisp green salad for contrast.
• Avoid overcrowding the pot—let everything cook evenly.

Recipe Variations for Easy Colombian Chicken Stew Recipe

1. Spicy Twist – Add jalapeños or chili flakes for a kick.
2. Vegetarian Option – Swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu with vegetable broth.
3. Different Vegetables – Include corn, yucca, or green plantains for a Pollo y Papa Guiso Colombiano twist.
4. Add Coconut Milk – A creamy Caribbean-style variation of Colombian Chicken and Vegetable Stew.

Freezing and Storage for Authentic Colombian Chicken Recipe

• Storage: 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: Up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Special Equipment for Making Colombian Chicken with Potatoes

• Large Dutch oven or pot
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon for stirring

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Homemade Colombian Chicken Stew

Related Colombian Chicken Stew and Potato Recipes

If you loved this Easy Colombian Chicken Stew recipe, try these next:

• Country Style Potato Salad
• Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
• Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
• Lemon Pepper Chicken
• Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
• Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
• Cowboy Butter Chicken
• Chicken Pastina Soup

Conclusion – A Comforting Taste of Colombian Chicken and Potato Stew

This Colombian Chicken and Potato Stew captures everything that makes Colombian comfort food special—simple ingredients, deep flavor, and a sense of home. Whether you call it Colombian Chicken Soup, Colombian Chicken with Potatoes, or Pollo y Papa Guiso Colombiano, it’s a dish that fills both your kitchen and your heart.

Try it once, and it’ll become your new favorite Homemade Colombian Chicken Stew.

Follow my Pinterest page for more cozy recipes like this one: https://www.pinterest.com/emiliorecipes/

Colombian Chicken and Potato Stew – A Bowl of Comfort from Colombia

Print Recipe

A warm and hearty Colombian Chicken and Potato Stew (Pollo y Papa Guiso Colombiano) made with tender chicken, potatoes, and aromatic spices for a comforting and traditional taste of Colombia.

• Author: Emilio
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45–60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Colombian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lb chicken thighs (bone-in, skinless)
• 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp lime juice (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: sliced avocado and extra cilantro for serving

Instructions

1. Warm olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; sauté until soft and fragrant.
3. Add chicken thighs and brown on both sides.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; toast for 30 seconds.
5. Pour in chicken broth and add potatoes, carrots, and bay leaf.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for 45 minutes until chicken is tender and potatoes are soft.
7. Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.
8. Remove chicken, shred, and return to the pot.
9. Ladle into bowls and garnish with avocado and cilantro before serving.

Notes

Serve hot with rice or arepas for a traditional Colombian experience. Store leftovers for up to 3–4 days or freeze for 3 months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Colombian chicken stew, pollo y papa guiso colombiano, Colombian comfort food, chicken and potato stew