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
- Course
- Cuisine
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:
Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant and golden — do not burn.
Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides.
Pour in white wine or chicken stock and sprinkle with paprika if desired.
Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is tender and sauce slightly thickens.
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.
