Weeknight Guatemalan Simmered Chicken Pastry

Assemble the ingredients: chicken, carrot, bay leaf, chili, parsley, cinnamon, lemon juice.

Warm oil in a heavy pot. Add the chicken and cook until simmered.

Stir in the aromatics and spices — the backbone of Guatemalan flavors.

Add the remaining ingredients and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until tender.

Taste and adjust seasoning; the flavor should deepen as it cooks.

Plate and serve with traditional Guatemalan accompaniments such as bread, rice, or fresh herbs.