Chicharrón de Pollo

Chicharrón de Pollo is a beloved Latin American dish consisting of bite-sized pieces of chicken that are marinated, then fried until golden and crispy. It typically features chicken pieces marinated in a blend of citrus juices, garlic, and spices like cumin and oregano, and is popular across countries like Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Colombia. The dish is often served as a main course or hearty snack, accompanied by sides like rice, beans, or fried plantains.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is high in protein from the chicken and significant in fat due to the deep-frying method, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates if served with starchy sides. A typical serving provides essential nutrients like B vitamins, iron, and selenium, and generally ranges from 300 to 500 calories per portion, depending on portion size and accompaniments.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	450 kcal
Protein	30 g
Carbs	25 g
Fat	26 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	1 g
Sodium	850 mg
Iron	2.5 mg
Potassium	380 mg
Phosphorus	280 mg
Niacin (B3)	8 mg
Vitamin B6	0.6 mg
Vitamin B12	0.5 mcg
Zinc	2.5 mg
Magnesium	35 mg

Per 1 cup (210 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Chicharrón de Pollo reflects the fusion of Indigenous, African, and Spanish culinary traditions in Latin America, often being a centerpiece at family gatherings and festivals. Nutritionally, while the frying adds calories, the marinade's citrus and spices can aid digestion and add antioxidants, making it a flavorful yet hearty comfort food.