Arroz con Pollo Recipe

If comfort had a flavor, it would taste like Arroz con Pollo. Translating to “Rice with Chicken,” this cherished dish is a staple in Latin American and Spanish cuisines. With its golden-hued rice, tender chicken, and bold flavors from garlic, onions, peppers, and tomatoes, Arroz con Pollo is the ultimate one-pot comfort food.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It’s hearty and satisfying yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. The aroma of simmering chicken and fragrant spices will fill your kitchen, setting the perfect tone for a cozy family meal.

Arroz con Pollo is more than just food—it’s a way to bring people together. Whether served at a quiet family dinner or as the centerpiece at a celebration, this vibrant and flavorful dish never fails to impress. Its saffron- or annatto-tinted rice is infused with chicken drippings, creating layers of savory, tangy, and aromatic flavors.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. Customize it with your favorite vegetables, add a spicy kick, or make it as traditional as you like. Each bite is a celebration of flavor and tradition.

Ready to dive into this classic dish? Let’s bring a taste of Latin culture into your kitchen with this delicious Arroz con Pollo recipe.

Arroz con Pollo is a comforting, one-pot dish featuring tender chicken, golden rice, and vibrant vegetables. This classic recipe combines simplicity with bold flavors, making it a favorite for family meals and celebrations.

The dish is easy to prepare with minimal cleanup, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Its saffron or annatto-infused rice adds a signature golden hue and depth of flavor, while the vegetables bring brightness to the dish.

Customizable and versatile, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves Latin-inspired cuisine.

Exciting Story

In my childhood, Sunday afternoons meant one thing: Arroz con Pollo. My grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, crafting this dish with love and care. The smell of onions and garlic sautéing in the pot would draw us in, and we’d eagerly wait for dinner.

Today, I make this dish for my own family. It’s become a way to connect generations and create memories. My kids call it “golden chicken rice,” and their excitement when it’s on the table reminds me of my own childhood.

Why This Arroz con Pollo?

• One-Pot Wonder: Easy preparation and cleanup.
• Family-Friendly: A dish loved by kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Adapt with your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Traditional Yet Simple: Brings the essence of Latin culture to your table.
• Vibrant Presentation: Beautiful golden rice and colorful vegetables.

What You Need for Arroz con Pollo

• For the Chicken:
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Rice:
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric or 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Arroz con Pollo

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions, green bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Toast the Rice: Stir in the rice, cumin, turmeric (or saffron), and paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the flavors.
4. Add Liquids and Chicken: Stir in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Nestle the chicken thighs back into the pot, ensuring they’re partially submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
5. Cook the Rice: Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Add the peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired, and serve hot.

Tips for Arroz con Pollo

1. Sear the Chicken: Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor.
2. Choose Quality Broth: A good-quality broth is key for flavorful rice.

Substitutions and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Use hearty vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms instead of chicken.
• Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or a diced jalapeño for heat.
• Alternative Proteins: Try boneless chicken breasts, turkey, or shrimp.

Make a Healthier Version

• Skinless Chicken: Remove the skin to reduce fat.
• Brown Rice: Substitute white rice with brown rice for added fiber, adjusting cooking time.
• Low-Sodium Broth: Opt for a low-sodium chicken broth to control salt intake.

Closing for Arroz con Pollo

And there you have it—a dish that brings the warmth of tradition to your table. This Arroz con Pollo recipe is packed with bold flavors and comforting textures, perfect for any occasion. Try it for yourself and experience the magic of this timeless recipe. Let us know how it turns out, and check out more of our recipes for even more inspiration!

Frequently Asked Questions for Arroz con Pollo

1. Can I use boneless chicken?
   Yes, boneless chicken works, but reduce the cooking time.
2. What type of rice is best?
   Long-grain white rice or basmati rice is ideal for this recipe.
3. Can I make this in advance?
   Yes, it reheats beautifully. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
4. Can I freeze Arroz con Pollo?
   Yes, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
5. What if I don’t have saffron?
   Substitute with turmeric or annatto for a similar color and mild flavor.
6. Can I add olives?
   Absolutely! Green olives or pimento-stuffed olives are a traditional addition in many versions.
7. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Yes, replace chicken with chickpeas or hearty vegetables and use vegetable broth.
8. What other vegetables can I add?
   Carrots, corn, or mushrooms make great additions.
9. What can I serve alongside this dish?
   Serve with a fresh salad, fried plantains, or avocado slices.
10. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
    Yes, brown the chicken and then cook all ingredients in a slow cooker for 3-4 hours on high.
11. How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
    Use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio and avoid overcooking.
12. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
    Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
13. Is this dish spicy?
    Not traditionally, but you can add spice to your preference with chili flakes or hot sauce.
14. How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
    The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.