How to Say Chicken in Spanish - Guide and Vocabulary Tips
Updated for 2026, the word for "chicken" in Spanish is "pollo". This article explores various ways to express "chicken" in Spanish, its cultural importance, and regional variations. Understanding how to use "pollo" correctly can enhance your culinary vocabulary and appreciation of Spanish cuisine.
Fast track your vocabulary with the 10,000 most common Spanish words!
2,500 most common Spanish words with IPA pronunciation & bilingual example sentences
What is "Chicken" in Spanish?
The word for "chicken" in Spanish is "pollo" (IPA: /pɔ.ʎo/). It's a masculine noun widely used across Spain and Latin American countries.
Cultural Significance of Chicken in Spanish-Speaking Countries
Want to improve your Spanish?
The Spanish Frequency Dictionary series covers the 10,000 most common Spanish words — ranked by how often native speakers actually use them, with IPA pronunciation, English translations, and bilingual example sentences at every level.
Browse all 4 volumes →In many Spanish-speaking regions, chicken holds significant cultural importance due to its versatility and widespread availability. From festive meals to everyday dishes, "pollo" is often the centerpiece at family gatherings and celebrations.
Meaning of "Chicken" in Spanish
"Pollo" refers to the domesticated bird Gallus gallus raised for meat and eggs. It's also used to describe chicken-based dishes like "pollo asado" (roast chicken) or "pollo frito" (fried chicken).
Variations in Spanish Vocabulary for Poultry
In addition to "pollo," other poultry terms include:
- Hen = Gallina (IPA: /ga.ʎi.na/)
- Rooster = Gallo (IPA: /ga.ʎo/)
- Chicken breast = Pechuga de pollo (IPA: /pe.ˈtʃu.ɣa ðe ˈpo.ʎo/)
- Chicken wings = Alas de pollo (IPA: /a.ˈlas ðe ˈpo.ʎo/)
- Chicken soup = Sopa de pollo (IPA: /ˈso.pa ðe ˈpo.ʎo/)
Regional Differences in Spanish Vocabulary for Chicken
Variations exist across different regions:
- In Catalonia, Spain, "gallina" is used instead of "pollo."
- Mexicans use "guajolote" for turkey and reserve "pollo" for chicken.
- Argentinians may refer to a young man as "pollo," while "gallina" means chicken.
Cooking Techniques with Chicken in Spanish Cuisine
Spanish cuisine offers a variety of cooking techniques that highlight the versatility of chicken:
- Grilling: Pollo al grill (grilled chicken)
- Baking: Pollo al horno (baked chicken)
- Frying: Pollo frito (fried chicken)
- Soups and broths: Sopa de pollo (chicken soup)
Regional Dishes Featuring Chicken in Spanish Cuisine
Explore these regional dishes:
- Pollo a la brasa (Peru): Grilled chicken marinated with spices and served with potatoes.
- Pollo en salsa verde (Mexico): Chicken cooked in a green sauce made from tomatillos, jalapeños, and cilantro.
- Pollo al ajillo (Spain): Garlic-infused fried chicken pieces often served as tapas.
Common Phrases Related to Cooking with Chicken in Spanish
Here are some common phrases:
- ¿Me pasas el pollo, por favor?
(Can you please pass me the chicken?)
- Me encanta comer alas de pollo.
(I love eating chicken wings.)
- Vamos a hacer sopa de pollo para la cena.
(We are making chicken soup for dinner.)
- El restaurante sirve el mejor pollo asado.
(The restaurant serves the best roasted chicken.)
Build Your Spanish Vocabulary Systematically
The fastest way to grow your Spanish vocabulary is to start with the words you'll actually encounter every day. The Spanish Frequency Dictionary covers the 2,500 most common Spanish words, each with IPA pronunciation, an English translation, and bilingual example sentences.
Browse the full range of Spanish frequency dictionaries to find the volume that matches your level.