halved SPRINKLE THE CHICKEN with salt. Grind the peppercorns, clove and cinnamon together in a spice mill and mix with the sugar, sherry, garlic, vinegar and 1.5 teaspoons salt. Spread one third of the onion in the bottom of the crockpot; cover with one third each of the tomatoes, chicken and fruit. Add the bay leaves and sprinkle with some of the seasonings and pour on half the vinegar-spice mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing up with a topping of onion, tomatoes and fruit. Cover and cook for about 1 hour, then uncover and cook for 30 minutes longer, or until the chicken is tender and some of the juices have been reduced. Discard bay leaves. FOR THE GARNISH: Heat the oil and fry the plantain slices until deep golden brown. Remove and drain. To serve, cover the top of the stew with the capers, olives and plantain.