Pollo al Ajillo Recipe- Spanish Special

Experience the bold and comforting flavors of Spain with this Pollo al Ajillo Recipe, a traditional Spanish garlic chicken dish loved for its rustic simplicity. Juicy chicken pieces are gently fried with golden garlic cloves in rich olive oil, then simmered with white wine for a deep, aromatic flavor. This Spanish-inspired main course captures the essence of Mediterranean home cooking, combining minimal ingredients with maximum flavor. Whether served with crusty bread, roasted potatoes, or rice, this garlic-infused chicken recipe is sure to impress any dinner guest.

  • Prep Time15 min
  • Cook Time35 min
  • Total Time50 min

Pollo al Ajillo Ingredients

  • 700g chicken pieces (bone-in or boneless)
  • 8–10 garlic cloves, peeled and lightly crushed
  • 4 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ cup dry white wine or chicken stock
  • 1 tsp paprika (optional)
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Pollo al Ajillo Instructions:

1

Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

2

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

3

Add garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant and golden — do not burn.

4

Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides.

5

Pour in white wine or chicken stock and sprinkle with paprika if desired.

6

Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is tender and sauce slightly thickens.

7

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges.

Recipe Notes :

Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor or boneless pieces for quicker cooking.

Do not over-brown the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Substitute chicken stock for white wine if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.

A touch of smoked paprika adds depth and a hint of spice.

Always simmer uncovered to let the sauce reduce naturally.

Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for brightness.

Pair with Spanish rice, tapas, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Best enjoyed as a Mediterranean comfort food on cozy evenings.