
This comforting Colombian Chicken Stew fills the kitchen with the scent of tomatoes, cumin, and fresh cilantro. Chicken drumsticks, red bell pepper, onion, potatoes, and juicy tomatoes bubble together in a rich broth until tender, making a hearty dish that is perfect for any night you want a taste of home cooking without fuss.
The first time I made this for my family was on a rainy evening after a long workday and the whole house felt warmer as it simmered away on the stove. It quickly became the most requested comfort meal in our kitchen.
Ingredients
- Chicken drumsticks or thighs: for rich flavor and affordable protein Pick skinless or bone-in pieces for extra juiciness
- Red bell pepper: for subtle sweetness and color Choose peppers that feel firm and bright red
- Small onion: for an aromatic base Look for onions with shiny skin and no soft spots
- Fresh garlic: for earthy depth Use plump cloves without green shoots
- Tomatoes: to create a tangy honest broth Ripe and firm tomatoes work best
- Baby potatoes: for comforting bite and natural creaminess Go for potatoes that feel heavy and have smooth skin
- Sazon Goya con azafran: for signature Latin flavor Look for this spice blend near the Latin foods aisle or add a pinch of turmeric and extra cumin as a sub
- Cumin powder: for warmth and classic Colombian taste Choose fresh ground for boldest flavor
- Chicken broth: to deepen the stew base Low sodium is best so you control the salt
- Fresh cilantro: for herbal brightness Avoid wilted leaves and rinse well before chopping
- Salt and pepper: for simple seasoning Use freshly ground pepper for a peppy kick
- Avocado: for serving which adds creaminess and balances the warmth Pick ripe avocados that yield gently to pressure
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the Pot:
- Pour vegetable oil into your Dutch oven or large skillet and set over medium heat Let it warm for at least one minute so vegetables will sizzle immediately
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add chopped red bell pepper and onion Sauté for about three to four minutes until the onions turn translucent and soft This step helps build the rich aromatic base that defines the stew
- Brown the Chicken:
- Nestle the chicken drumsticks among the veggies Add minced garlic and chopped tomatoes along with salt and pepper Stir well Cook for about four minutes letting the chicken take on a light golden hue This gives depth to your final stew
- Add the Broth and Seasonings:
- Pour in the chicken broth Add Sazon Goya and cumin Give it a thorough stir Add baby potatoes and most of the chopped cilantro Set aside some for garnishing later
- Simmer:
- Bring the whole mixture to a boil then quickly reduce the heat to medium low so it gently simmers Partially cover the pot so steam can escape but flavors concentrate Simmer for thirty minutes or until chicken and potatoes are fork tender Stir every now and then to prevent sticking
- Garnish and Serve:
- Taste for seasoning Add a little salt if needed Sprinkle extra cilantro over the top and serve the stew hot Add fresh avocado slices and a scoop of rice if you like for an authentic Colombian dinner

Fresh cilantro is my favorite ingredient in this stew because it brightens the flavors I always recall watching my grandmother toss big handfuls of cilantro into her own pot at the last minute She said it made every simple stew taste special
Storage tips
Let leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring to containers This stew keeps well for up to four days in the fridge and reheats gently on the stovetop Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much For longer storage the stew freezes beautifully Freeze in single-serve portions for handy lunches or quick dinners
Ingredient substitutions
Thighs work in place of drumsticks and offer extra tenderness If you prefer white meat use chicken breast though it will be slightly less rich Swap in Yukon Gold or standard potatoes if baby potatoes are out Sazon Goya can be replaced with one teaspoon each turmeric and paprika plus a bit more cumin Vegetable broth works if you want a vegetarian base just increase the veggies
Serving suggestions
Traditionally this stew is ladled over fluffy white rice and topped with ripe avocado and extra cilantro My household likes to add a splash of hot sauce for some heat Some folks add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the broth Use crusty bread to mop up the flavorful sauce or pair with a simple green salad on the side
Cultural context
Sudado de Pollo is comfort food in many Colombian households where pots bubble on stovetops for hours as family stories are swapped Recipes vary regionally but always feature tender chicken simmered with tomatoes onion and potatoes The result is filling and fragrant and a symbol of hospitality Generations share versions of this humble stew celebrating togetherness
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, boneless thighs or chicken breasts work well, though drumsticks add rich flavor and tenderness.
- → Is there a substitute for sazon goya con azafran?
You can make a blend using ground coriander, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of saffron or turmeric for color.
- → Can the stew be frozen?
Absolutely! Allow the stew to cool, then store in airtight containers. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- → What are traditional sides for this dish?
Steamed white rice and sliced avocado are classic, but you can also serve with warm arepas or fresh salad.
- → How do I prevent the stew from becoming too dry or watery?
Add extra broth or water if the liquid gets too low. For a thicker texture, remove the lid to reduce excess liquid.