Achiote chicken is a traditional Mexican dish full of flavor and vibrant color, thanks to the achiote paste. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, especially when prepared in a pressure cooker, and it's ready in less than half an hour. Serve it with white rice, beans, or a salad...

Achiote Chicken recipe
Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
35min

Ingredients

6 Servings
(1 serving = 1 portion of chicken with sauce and accompaniments)
  • chicken, cut into pieces and skinless
    chicken, cut into pieces and skinless
    2kg
  • package achiote paste
    package achiote paste
    1
  • orange, juiced
    orange, juiced
    1
  • white vinegar
    white vinegar
    1/4cup
  • slices canned pineapple in syrup, chopped
    slices canned pineapple in syrup, chopped
    3
  • pineapple syrup
    pineapple syrup
    1cup
  • potatoes, quartered
    potatoes, quartered
    2
  • small onion
    small onion
    1
  • salt, to taste
    salt, to taste
  • pepper, to taste
    pepper, to taste

How to make Achiote Chicken

Prepare the sauce

  1. Step 1

    Crumble the achiote paste and place it in a blender.

  2. Step 2

    Add the orange juice, white vinegar, pineapple syrup, and onion to the blender.

  3. Step 3

    Blend until smooth and set aside.

Assemble the dish

  1. Step 1

    Place the chicken pieces in the pressure cooker.

  2. Step 2

    Add the potatoes, chopped pineapple, and the prepared sauce.

  3. Step 3

    Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook

  1. Step 1

    Close the pressure cooker and cook for 10 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Remove the pressure cooker from the heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before opening.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

413.3kcal (20.67%)

Protein

43.3g (86.66%)

Carbs

11.3g (4.12%)

Sugars

11.3g (22.66%)

Healthy Fat

5.9g

Unhealthy Fat

2.5g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking.

  2. If you don't have a pressure cooker, you can cook this dish in a regular pot, but it will take longer.

  3. Serve with white rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

FAQS

  1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple?

    Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but you will need to substitute the pineapple syrup with a sweetened liquid like orange juice or sugar water.

  2. What can I use as a substitute for achiote paste?

    If you can't find achiote paste, you can use a mix of paprika, garlic, oregano, and a bit of vinegar, but the flavor won't be exactly the same.

  3. Can I make this dish without a pressure cooker?

    Yes, you can cook it in a regular pot. Simmer the chicken on low heat until it is fully cooked and tender, which may take around 40-50 minutes.

  4. How do I store leftovers?

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

  5. Is this dish spicy?

    No, achiote paste is not spicy. It adds a mild, earthy flavor and vibrant color to the dish.

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