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Colombian Chicken, Corn, and Potato Stew

This authentic Colombian chicken and potato stew, traditionally known as Ajiaco, is a beautifully thick and comforting meal. The secret to its unique texture lies in using three varieties of potatoes, which dissolve at different rates to create a rich, naturally creamy base. Infused with the distinct, earthy flavour of guascas and sweetened by rounds of tender corn on the cob, it is a vibrant celebration of South American home cooking.

As a satisfying high-protein dish, this hearty stew is perfect for a family Sunday lunch or a restorative midweek dinner. It is served in a sociable style, with bowls of silky avocado, tangy capers, and soured cream offered at the table. These fresh toppings provide a wonderful contrast to the savoury broth, allowing everyone to customise their bowl to their own taste.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Colombian Chicken, Corn, and Potato Stew

  • 1 whole chicken (about 1.6kg)

  • 1.9L water

  • 475ml reduced-sodium chicken broth

  • 1 large white onion, chopped

  • 1 tablespoon dried guascas or oregano

  • 450g papas criollas (thawed if frozen), quartered, or russet (baking) potatoes

  • 450g Yukon Gold potatoes

  • 450g boiling potatoes

  • 3 ears corn, cut into 1-inch rounds, or 2 cups kernels (275g)

  • 3/4 cup chopped coriander, divided

  • 1 cup crema, or 120ml double cream mixed with 120ml soured cream

  • 60ml drained capers

  • 3 (6- to 230g ) firm-ripe avocados, cut into cubes

How to make Colombian Chicken, Corn, and Potato Stew

Put chicken in a 6- to 8-quart pot and add water, broth, onion, guascas, and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt. Bring to a boil, skimming foam, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, until chicken is cooked through, 30 to 40 minutes. Transfer to a plate to cool slightly (reserve broth).

Add papas criollas to reserved broth (if using russet potatoes, peel and coarsely grate first) and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are falling apart and beginning to thicken broth (mash if necessary), 20 to 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, peel Yukon Golds and boiling potatoes and cut into 1-inch pieces, then add to pot and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until almost tender, 10 to 15 minutes.

Add corn, 1/4 cup coriander, and 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper and simmer, covered, until corn is tender, 5 to 10 minutes.

While corn cooks, coarsely shred chicken, discarding skin and bones.

Add chicken to stew and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Season with salt.

Serve stew with crema, capers, avocados, and remaining 1/2 cup coriander, each in separate bowls (or add them to stew in pot just before serving).

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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