Galinha com Banana Pica-Pau
A delightful combination of tender chicken pieces and sweet, fried plantains, often seasoned with a savory sauce. This dish, known as 'Pica-Pau' style, typically involves small, bite-sized pieces, making it a popular and flavorful meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken(bone-in, cut into small pieces (about 1.5-inch cubes))
- 3 large Ripe plantains(peeled and sliced into 1-inch thick rounds)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 medium Red bell pepper(chopped)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 1.5 cups Chicken broth
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/4 cup White wine(optional)
- 1 Bay leaf
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for garnish Fresh cilantro or parsley
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides until golden. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- 2
In the same pot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and chopped tomatoes. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
- 4
If using white wine, pour it into the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute to reduce slightly.
💡 Tip: This deglazing step adds extra flavor. - 5
Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the liquid to a simmer.
💡 Tip: Ensure the broth covers most of the ingredients. - 6
Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- 7
While the chicken is simmering, heat a separate skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Fry the plantain slices until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
💡 Tip: Use ripe plantains for sweetness; they should be yellow with some black spots. - 8
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the fried plantains. Cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 9
Remove the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve hot, typically with rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer sauce, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the chopped tomatoes.
- ✓If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mash a few pieces of plantain against the side of the pot.
- ✓Ensure the chicken pieces are small enough to be considered 'pica-pau' (woodpecker) style, meaning bite-sized.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like green beans or carrots along with the onions and peppers.
- For a spicier version, add a chopped chili pepper with the garlic.