Colombian Chicken Stew (Ajiaco Colombiano)

Introduction

Colombian Chicken Stew, known locally as Ajiaco, is a hearty, aromatic comfort dish beloved across Colombia. Its distinctive character comes from a blend of tender chicken, three different types of potatoes, and a hint of corn, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. The real magic of Ajiaco lies in its ability to effortlessly nourish a group—making it a stellar choice for feeding a family or impressing at a dinner party.

Warm and filling, Ajiaco brings complex yet accessible South American flavors straight to your table, while the optional garnishes let everyone personalize their bowl.

Why This Colombian Chicken Stew is a Standout Dish

What sets Ajiaco apart is its balance between homey comfort and nuanced taste. The different potatoes dissolve to varying degrees, naturally thickening the stew and adding subtle layers of flavor. A pop of fresh herbs and the addition of corn cobs introduce both freshness and sweetness, making each spoonful enticingly multidimensional.

With minimal prep and largely hands-off cooking, you can achieve incredible depth—especially if you use smart kitchen tools to streamline your work.

Prepping Ingredients for Colombian Chicken Stew

Ajiaco begins with prepping a medley of vegetables: onions, garlic, potatoes, and corn. Chopping evenly is key for an even cook and a pleasing texture. A Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper expedites prep and ensures uniformity, especially when dicing large quantities.

When slicing chicken or removing corn from the cob, use sturdy KitchenAid All Purpose Kitchen Shears with Protective Sheath for safety and speed. For potatoes, especially when peeling and cubing Yukon Golds or russets, a set of Bamboo Cutting Boards for Kitchen, Set of 3 keeps your workspace tidy and organized.

Cooking Colombian Chicken Stew

You’ll want to use a large, heavy pot or Dutch oven to ensure even heat and plenty of room for ingredients. Begin by sautéing your aromatics—onion and garlic—followed by chicken thighs or breasts until just browned. Layer in cut potatoes (russet for body, Yukon Gold for creaminess, red for structure), fresh corn sections, and chicken stock.

As the pot simmers, the starches from various potatoes thicken the broth naturally, creating a velvety texture without the need for cream. If you’re looking to gauge doneness, the ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking can be invaluable for ensuring perfectly cooked chicken.

Just before serving, stir in a generous handful of chopped cilantro and add sliced green onions for brightness. Traditionally, ajiaco is served with avocado, capers, and a dollop of crema or sour cream on the side.

Tips for Serving and Storing Colombian Chicken Stew

For gatherings, use a Pureegg Plastic Table Cloth Disposable 10 Pack, White for easy cleanup and a festive, family-style presentation. Any leftover stew keeps well in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup)—just cool before storing to maintain optimal texture.

Serve Colombian Chicken Stew directly from the stove with bowls of sliced avocado, capers, and extra cilantro. For lunch on-the-go, pack soup and toppings separately in a Bentgo Salad Container – 54 oz Bowl, Khaki Green so they stay fresh until mealtime.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This hearty stew yields 6 generous servings, each packed with lean protein and complex carbohydrates. The inclusion of three potato varieties and corn boosts the fiber content, while toppings like avocado provide healthy fats. Expect roughly 350–400 calories per serving, depending on the size and added toppings.

Colombian Chicken Stew (Recap)

Ajiaco’s comforting, complex flavors make it the ultimate one-pot meal for chilly days or lively gatherings. Its mix of tender chicken, creamy potatoes, sweet corn, and fresh herbs creates a stew that’s equal parts comforting and captivating—sure to win over every palate at your table.

Instructions

1. Prepare all vegetables: peel and dice potatoes, chop onions, mince garlic, and slice corn using the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper and Bamboo Cutting Boards for Kitchen, Set of 3.
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and brown lightly on both sides (about 4 minutes).
4. Pour in chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Add all potatoes, corn rounds, and oregano.
5. Cover and simmer on low for 40–50 minutes, until chicken is cooked through. (Check using the ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking; the chicken should reach 165°F.)
6. Remove chicken from the stew, shred with two forks or a Chicken Shredder Tool Twist for Kitchen, Elegant Black, then return to the pot.
7. Stir in chopped cilantro and green onions. Adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve stew hot with sliced avocado, a spoonful of sour cream, and capers on the side.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Enjoy the savory, complex flavors of Colombian Chicken Stew—a truly special, crowd-pleasing comfort meal!