A traditional Panamanian dish — Guisado de Pollo Panameño is the country’s homiest chicken stew, golden with achiote and loaded with potatoes, carrots and peas. Every Panamanian home has its version, seasoned with garlic, sweet pepper and plenty of culantro. Ladled over white rice, it is the definition of a comforting weekday meal.
Guisado de Pollo Panameño
A traditional Panamanian dish — Guisado de Pollo Panameño is the country’s homiest chicken stew, golden with achiote and loaded with potatoes, carrots and peas.

Step by stepInstructions
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper; heat the oil in a large pot and brown the pieces well, about 10 minutes; remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, cook the onion, garlic, bell pepper and tomatoes with the achiote until soft, about 6 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the pot, add the broth, cover and simmer 20 minutes.
- Add the potatoes and carrots and cook until tender, about 15 minutes; stir in the peas and cook 5 more minutes.
- Stir in the culantro, adjust the seasoning and serve hot over white rice.
💡 Chef tips & storage
Browning the chicken properly is what gives the stew its deep color and flavor — do not rush it. The stew should be saucy, so add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

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