Authentic & Easy Panes con Pollo Recipe

Panes con pollo is a beloved and hearty sandwich that brings together the best of Latin American flavors in a simple yet delicious package. This savory treat features tender, spiced chicken nestled between soft, crusty rolls, often accompanied by fresh vegetables and zesty condiments. Perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, this dish combines the comforting elements of a classic sandwich with the vibrant, bold tastes of Latin cuisine. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a taste of sunshine in every bite.

panes con pollo

Why will you love this recipe?

You’ll love the panes con pollo recipe because it’s a delightful fusion of simplicity and flavor. This dish showcases tender, seasoned chicken that’s both juicy and satisfying, nestled in a fresh, crusty roll. The combination of perfectly cooked chicken with crisp vegetables and zesty sauces creates a burst of flavors in every bite. It’s a versatile recipe that you can easily customize with your favorite toppings and seasonings, making it a great option for any occasion. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and perfect for serving up a crowd or enjoying a comforting meal at home. 

Key Notes

ServingCaloriesPrep. TimeCooking TimeRest TimeTotal Time
4570 kcal20 Mins20 Mins30 Mins
(At Least)
1 hr. 10 Mins

Kitchen Utensils Needed

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Skillet or Frying Pan
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Tongs
  • Paper Towels
  • Bread Knife
  • Serving Plates

Panes Con Pollo Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade: 

1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chickenCheck Price
2 tablespoons olive oil Check Price
1 tablespoon soy sauce Check Price
1 tablespoon lime juice or vinegar Check Price
1 teaspoon ground cumin Check Price
1 teaspoon paprika Check Price
1 teaspoon garlic powder Check Price
1 teaspoon onion powder Check Price
1 teaspoon dried oregano Check Price
1/2 teaspoon salt Check Price
1/4 teaspoon black pepper Check Price

For the Sandwich: 

4 sandwich rolls or ciabatta rolls Check Price
1 tablespoon mayonnaise Check Price
1 tablespoon ketchup (optional) Check Price
1/2 cup shredded lettuce Check Price
1 tomato, sliced Check Price
1/2 onion, thinly sliced Check Price
Pickles (optional) Check Price
Hot sauce (optional)Check Price

Making Panes Con Pollo Recipe

Marinate the Chicken: 

  • In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. 
  • Cut the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. 
  • Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor. 

Cook the Chicken: 

  • Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. 
  • Add a small amount of oil to the pan if needed. 
  • Add the marinated chicken to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). 
  • Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. 

Prepare the Rolls: 

  • Slice the sandwich rolls in half, if not pre-sliced. 
  • Optionally, you can lightly toast the rolls in the skillet or oven for added texture. 

Assemble the Sandwiches: 

  • Spread mayonnaise on the inside of each roll. 
  • Add ketchup if desired. Layer shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and onion slices on the bottom half of each roll. 
  • Add the cooked chicken on top of the vegetables.
  • Add pickles and hot sauce if using. 
  • Top with the other half of the roll. 

Serve: 

  • Cut the sandwiches in half if desired and serve immediately.
panes con pollo recipe

secret tips for better results

To ensure your chicken sandwich are truly exceptional, consider incorporating these expert tips. They’ll help you enhance flavor, texture, and overall presentation, making your sandwiches even more delightful. Here’s how to take your recipe to the next level:

  • Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the spices to fully penetrate the meat, making it more flavorful and tender. 
  • Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the marinade or as a garnish. They add a fresh, vibrant flavor that compliments the chicken. 
  • Sear for Extra Flavor: Before cooking the chicken, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This helps achieve a better sear and enhances the flavor.
  • Toast the Rolls: Lightly butter and toast the rolls in a skillet or oven before assembling the sandwiches. This adds a crispy texture and richer flavor. 
  • Layer Flavors: Consider adding a layer of sautéed onions and peppers or a slice of avocado for extra depth and creaminess. These additions can enhance both taste and texture.
  • Use Quality Rolls: Opt for fresh, high-quality rolls or ciabatta that have a good crust and airy interior. They make a big difference in texture and taste.

Flavor Variations

  • Mexican-Style: Season the chicken with taco seasoning and add toppings like sliced jalapeños, avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Use a spread of spicy chipotle mayo for an extra kick. 
  • Mediterranean Style: Season the chicken with a blend of oregano, garlic, and lemon. Add toppings like sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce or hummus for a refreshing, tangy twist. 
  • BBQ Chicken Type: Use BBQ sauce in the marinade and brush some on the chicken while cooking. Top with coleslaw and pickles for a Southern-inspired flavor combination. 
  • Buffalo Chicken Type: Toss the cooked chicken in buffalo sauce for a spicy, tangy flavor. Add a drizzle of blue cheese or ranch dressing and top with celery slices for a classic buffalo wing taste in sandwich form.

storage guidelines

To keep your panes con pollo fresh and flavorful for later, it’s important to follow proper storage techniques. Whether you’re planning to enjoy them soon or save them for later, these guidelines will help maintain their taste and texture. Here’s how to store and reheat your sandwiches effectively:

  • If you plan to eat the sandwiches within 2-3 days, store them in the refrigerator. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. 
  • To keep the rolls from becoming too soggy, you may want to store the chicken and bread separately and assemble the sandwiches just before eating.
  • Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. If the chicken was frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. 
  • Refresh the bread by toasting it lightly or warming it in the oven for a few minutes. This helps restore some of its original texture.

Serving Suggestion

To create a well-rounded meal with your panes con polo, consider adding sides that complement its savory flavors. Pairing your sandwiches with refreshing or hearty accompaniments can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great serving suggestions to complete your meal:

FAQs:

Panes con pollo is a Latin American-style sandwich that features seasoned, cooked chicken served in a roll or ciabatta. It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables and condiments. 

To make the chicken, marinate it with spices and herbs such as cumin, paprika, garlic, and onion powder. Cook the chicken in a skillet or oven until fully cooked and golden brown. The key is to ensure the chicken is well-seasoned and tender. 

Yes, you can use various types of bread for this recipe. While traditional rolls or ciabatta are commonly used, you can also experiment with baguettes, pita bread, or even a crusty artisan loaf. 

Popular toppings include shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, onions, pickles, and avocado. You can also add condiments like mayonnaise, ketchup, or hot sauce to enhance the flavor. 

Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. However, it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving to keep the bread from becoming soggy. 

Store leftover chicken sandwiches in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To keep the bread from becoming too soft, you might want to store the chicken and bread separately and assemble the sandwiches when ready to eat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, panes con pollo is a versatile and satisfying dish that combines tender, flavorful chicken with the simplicity of a classic sandwich. Its adaptability allows for a variety of flavor profiles, from spicy and tangy to fresh and light, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a casual dinner, this sandwich delivers both comfort and taste, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. 

panes con pollo recipe

Panes con Pollo Recipe

Panes con Pollo dish is a popular Latin American street food, often enjoyed in countries like Colombia. It's essentially a sandwich filled with seasoned, grilled or roasted chicken, and it's typically served on a crusty roll or bread. The filling can be customized with various ingredients, such as lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and sauces.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Rest Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Salvadoreno
Servings 4
Calories 570 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Measuring Cups And Spoons
  • Skillet Or Frying Pan
  • Wooden Spoon Or Spatula
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels
  • Bread Knife
  • Serving Plates

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade: 

  • 1 lb 450 g boneless, skinless
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice or vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sandwich: 

  • 4 sandwich rolls or ciabatta rolls
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup optional
  • 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 tomato sliced
  • 1/2 onion thinly sliced
  • Pickles optional
  • Hot sauce optional

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  • Cut the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
  • Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
  • Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
  • Add a small amount of oil to the pan if needed.
  • Add the marinated chicken to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  • Slice the sandwich rolls in half, if not pre-sliced.
  • Optionally, you can lightly toast the rolls in the skillet or oven for added texture.
  • Spread mayonnaise on the inside of each roll.
  • Add ketchup if desired. Layer shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and onion slices on the bottom half of each roll.
  • Add the cooked chicken on top of the vegetables.
  • Add pickles and hot sauce if using.
  • Top with the other half of the roll.
  • Cut the sandwiches in half if desired and serve immediately.
Keyword Pan con Pollo Recipe, Pan con Pollo Salvadoreño Recipe