Pollo a la Secretaria (Secretary’s Chicken)
Pollo a la Secretaria is a traditional dish from Alcalá la Real, a town in the Andalusian region of Jaén, Spain. Its origins date back to the 1920s when a group of friends gathered to prepare a chicken and rice stew but realized they had no rice. The secretary's wife...

Ingredients
- large free-range chicken1
- glass olive oil2
- bay leaves2sprigs
- large onions2
- garlic6clove
- glass white wine1
- chicken livers2
- canned roasted red peppers250g
- canned peas150g
- fresh tomatoes500g
- Serrano ham150g
- ground black pepper2tsp
- packet yellow food coloring2
- saffron threads1pinch
- salt1dash
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
75.0kcal (3.75%)
Protein
5.8g (11.66%)
Carbs
8.3g (3.03%)
Sugars
3.3g (6.66%)
Healthy Fat
1.7g
Unhealthy Fat
0.8g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Pollo a la Secretaria (Secretary’s Chicken)
- Step 1
Heat the olive oil in a large pot and add the Serrano ham, cut into small pieces.
- Step 2
Add the chicken, cut into pieces, along with the bay leaves, ground black pepper, and salt. Fry the chicken until golden.
- Step 3
Once the chicken is fried, pour in the white wine and let it reduce.
- Step 4
Separately, sauté the garlic, chopped onions, chicken livers, half of the peas, and half of the roasted red peppers. Cook until everything is softened and the livers are fried.
- Step 5
Remove the livers and blend them together with the saffron threads. Add this mixture back to the stew along with a splash of water and the crushed fresh tomatoes.
- Step 6
Let everything simmer until the chicken is tender and the sauce has reduced.
- Step 7
Finally, add the remaining peas and the rest of the roasted red peppers, chopped into pieces. Stir well and serve.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
75.0kcal (3.75%)
Protein
5.8g (11.66%)
Carbs
8.3g (3.03%)
Sugars
3.3g (6.66%)
Healthy Fat
1.7g
Unhealthy Fat
0.8g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
Adjust the amount of saffron threads to your preference for a richer aroma.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the stew for a longer time.
For added depth, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and spices for a few hours before cooking.
FAQS
Can I use a different type of meat?
While the traditional recipe uses chicken, you can substitute it with turkey or rabbit for a different flavor.
What can I serve with this dish?
Pollo a la Secretaria pairs well with crusty bread, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stew a day in advance. The flavors will deepen as it rests.
Is saffron necessary?
Saffron adds a unique aroma and color, but you can substitute it with turmeric if unavailable.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
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