Chicharrón de Pollo
Fried Chicken Chunks
Yes, with a tweak: request *no breading or flour dredge*. About 3g net carbs per serving, lower than 9 in 10 Puerto Rican dishes.
What it is
Marinated chicken pieces, typically bone-in and skin-on, fried until wonderfully crispy. Seasoned traditionally with garlic, oregano, and lime juice.
Key ingredients
Chicken pieces (e.g., thighs, drumsticks, or breast chunks), fresh garlic, dried oregano, sea salt, black pepper, lime juice, olive oil or high-heat oil for frying.
How to make it keto
Crucially, request *no breading or flour dredge*. Many restaurants might add flour for extra crispiness, so specify plain or seasoned only. Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken for more fat.
Say this to the waiter (Spanish)
El Chicharrón de Pollo: por favor, sin empanizar ni enharinar. Solo el pollo sazonado y frito. Con hueso y piel, si es posible.
Chicharrón de Pollo: I need this without any breading or flour dredge, please. Just plain or seasoned chicken, fried. Bone-in, skin-on if possible.
Watch out for
Flour or cornstarch breading (a significant risk), sugary marinades or dipping sauces, and traditional high-carb side dishes.
Macros are estimates for a typical serving and vary by restaurant. Confirm ingredients with staff, especially if you have allergies. Our ingredient lists are generated automatically and describe how a dish is typically made.
More on the Puerto Rican menuAll 232 Puerto Rican dishes ›
