Discover Authentic Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Today!
The warm, fragrant flavors of Latin America and the freshest ingredients are what bring this Arroz Con Pollo a La Tica recipe to life. Costa Rica is where the magical blend of rice and chicken comes to create the most savory, filling, and aromatic meals that linger for days after. The recipe has been passed down for generations throughout Latin America and Puerto Rico, with every home featuring their own personal touches to make it unique.
If you’re looking to try something new in your kitchen, then look no further than this delicious Arroz con Pollo la Tica recipe. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just want something flavorful and filling, this classic dish is perfect for any occasion.
Not only does it have a rich history, but its flavors grab hold of your taste buds from the first bite; I know personally as it is one of my favorite dishes to make. Impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe that will transport you right to the beautiful landscapes of Latin America.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Arroz con Pollo a La Tica is a dish that will make your senses sing. This Costa Rican favorite has been enjoyed for generations and now you can savor its delicious flavors right in your own kitchen.
What makes this recipe so special? First, there’s the rice. The cooked white rice provides a perfect base for the savory chicken and vegetable mixture that is infused with the flavors of soy sauce, cilantro, and parsley.
Speaking of the chicken and veggies, they are what really set this dish apart. Tender chicken thighs are cut into serving pieces and combined with onion, green beans, and carrot in small dice. You’ll love how the crunch of these veggies blends perfectly with the softness of the chicken.
And let’s not forget about that amazing sauce. Soy sauce adds just the right amount of saltiness while extra-virgin olive oil provides a rich flavor that undeniably screams La Tica.
This meal is not only impressively delicious, it’s also healthy with its mix of lean proteins and fresh vegetables. It’s an exceptional choice for any special occasion or even for weekday nights when you just want something yummy to fill you up.
This Arroz con Pollo a La Tica recipe will provide comfort in every bite, leaving you feeling nourished and satisfied. It’s time to expand your palate and experience Latin cuisine at its finest. Trust me, you’ll be hooked after just one bite- ¡Pura Vida!
Ingredient List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this savory and flavorful Arroz Con Pollo a La Tica Recipe that captures the essence of Costa Rican cuisine in a dish.
Main Ingredients
Arroz con pollo
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 3 pounds chicken thighs, cut into serving pieces
- 1 medium onion, small dice
- 1 red pepper, small dice
- 1 carrot, small dice
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-2 inch pieces
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 bay leaf
Other Ingredients
- 1/4 cup cilantro and parsley, finely chopped for garnish
Arroz Con Pollo means ‘rice with chicken’ which is a popular Latin American dish. Generally found in the cuisine of Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic or Spain, each country has its own version of this popular rice dish. The recipe has rice and chicken as the main ingredients. But in this Costa Rican recipe Arroz Con Pollo a La Tica we have included some other vegetables such as green beans, carrots and red pepper along with some seasonings like soy sauce and bay leaf to give it more depth of flavor.
The ingredients mentioned above are easy to find at your local grocery store. Make sure to pick up bone-in chicken thighs (skin removed but not necessary) as they add more flavor to the chicken rice than boneless ones. Also, feel free to use low-sodium chicken broth if you are watching your salt intake.
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have all the ingredients prepared, it’s time to cook the Arroz Con Pollo a La Tica. This Costa Rican recipe is a perfect blend of rice and chicken. It’s time to learn how to make this delicious dish, so let’s get started!
Step 1: Cook Rice
- In a pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil on medium heat. Add 1 small diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add 2 cups of cooked white rice to the pot, and stir with onions.
- Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, cover the pot, and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and leave rice covered for an additional 10 minutes.
Step 2: Cook Chicken
- Heat up a pan with 2 tablespoons of olive oil on medium heat.
- Add 3 pounds cut chicken thighs to the pan and brown them.
- Once browned, add in 1 small diced onion, 1 medium diced carrot, a cup of small cut green beans, and a diced red pepper.
- Cook about 5 minutes or until onions are translucent.
Step 3: Mix Rice and Chicken together
- Add the cooked vegetables with chicken onto the cooked white rice.
- Using a fork, gently incorporate everything together in the pot while holding down lightly so that you don’t mush everything; place chicken pieces over the top of the mixture.
- Sprinkled freshly chopped cilantro and parsley over top of chicken.
Step 4: Simmer
- Add 2 cups of chicken broth, sprinkle in some salt and black pepper, add in a pinch or two of cumin and chili powder (optional), and stir gently.
- Bring everything back up to temperature by simmmering for about 10 minutes or until it starts to bubble.
- Turn heat down to low, place a tightly fitting lid on the pot, and simmer until rice is completely cooked and chicken is fully cooked, approximately 20-25 minutes.
Finally, remove it from heat and allow it to rest for a few minutes so that everything can settle. Your Arroz Con Pollo a La Tica is now ready. Buen provecho!
Substitutions and Variations
Making substitutions and variations in cooking is not only necessary at times, but it can be a fun and creative way to personalize a recipe to your taste. Here are some suggestions for this Arroz con Pollo a La Tica recipe:
– Vegetarian version: Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You could also add different vegetables like zucchini or peppers for added flavor.
– Gluten-free version: The recipe is already gluten-free, but be sure to check the labels of any packaged ingredients you use to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
– Low-sodium version: Reduce the amount of soy sauce or use a low-sodium alternative to make the dish less salty.
– Spicier version: Add more red pepper flakes or hot sauce to increase the heat level of the dish.
– Different protein: Swap out the chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or even shrimp. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
– Grain option: Instead of using white rice, try brown rice or quinoa for added nutritional benefits.
Remember, these are just some suggestions – feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients to make this recipe your own!
Serving and Pairing
Arroz Con Pollo a La Tica is a vibrant and hearty dish that can be served as a complete dinner on its own or paired with a side dish to elevate the dining experience. One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it can be, allowing you to pair it with various sides of your choice.
For instance, you can serve this dish with a fresh salad made of greens, sweet peppers, and onions, and dressed with olive oil and vinegar for added flavor. A chunky salsa featuring fresh tomatoes, cilantro and parsley can also work well with this meal. You could also try pairing it with avocado slices for an added Latin flare.
Another great option would be to serve Arroz Con Pollo a La Tica alongside grilled or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, broccoli or even roasted red peppers. A good glass of red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon will nicely complement these savory flavors.
If you prefer a more carb-loaded option, try serving this dish alongside plantains cooked in olive oil or fried yucca. These sides perfectly balance the hearty chicken and rice flavor profile of Arroz Con Pollo.
Overall, the possibilities of pairing sides with Arroz Con Pollo a La Tica are endless. Experimenting with different flavors and side dishes will make this Costa Rican recipe even more enjoyable.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
If you want to plan ahead and make this Arroz Con Pollo recipe in advance, it’s definitely possible. To make it ahead of time, prep the Arroz Con Pollo as you would normally then layer the rice and chicken separately in an airtight container. Cover it well and store it in the fridge for up to two days.
When you’re ready to serve this dish, simply reheat it on a low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until fully warmed through. You may need to add extra broth or water to moisten the dish as it reheats.
In terms of storing your leftovers, let your Arroz Con Pollo cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or tightly wrapped foil. You can keep them stored in the fridge for up to four days or freeze the leftovers for up to three months.
If you’re planning on freezing your Arroz Con Pollo, we suggest separating the rice and chicken again and storing them in separate containers so that they maintain their texture properly. Make sure the containers are fully airtight and sealed before freezing.
When reheating previously frozen Arroz Con Pollo, we recommend reheating it slowly either on low heat on the stovetop or in the oven at around 350°F until fully heated through.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to enjoy your Arroz Con Pollo days after you originally made it, without losing any of its delicious flavors or textures.
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you’ve learned how to make a delicious Arroz con Pollo a La Tica dish, let me share with you some tips for perfect results.
Firstly, it’s important to use the right type of rice. Opt for long-grain white rice as it has a milder flavor and fluffier texture compared to short-grain rice. Be sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove any excess starch.
Secondly, make sure to use good quality chicken broth for added flavor. If you don’t have homemade broth on hand, opt for a low-sodium store-bought variety.
For the vegetables, it’s important to not overcook them. Green beans and carrots should be tender yet crisp. To achieve this result, blanch them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before adding them to the dish.
Additionally, when cooking the chicken thighs, be sure to brown them well on both sides before adding in the vegetables and rice. This will give the dish a deeper flavor and prevent the chicken from becoming rubbery.
Finally, once the dish is assembled and cooked, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that each bite is packed with deliciousness.
By following these tips, you will be able to create a flavorful and impressive Arroz con Pollo a La Tica dish every time.
FAQ
Now that you have got everything you need to make this delicious Arroz Con Pollo a La Tica recipe, there may still be some questions lingering in your mind. Worry not, for I have already compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions about this recipe. Continue reading to clear any doubts and make sure you’ll get perfect results every time!
What is arroz con leche Costa Rica made of?
Arroz con leche, a delicious Costa Rican dessert, is made by combining sweetened condensed milk, white rice, sugar, vanilla and cinnamon. This sweet treat can be enjoyed either warm or cold.
What is arroz con pollo the national dish of?
Rice with chicken or Arroz con pollo in Spanish is a timeless dish that originated from Spain and is celebrated throughout Latin America. Different countries feature their own distinct way of preparing this classic meal.
Is paella the same as arroz con pollo?
Rice with chicken, commonly called Arroz con pollo in Spanish, is a popular dish hailing from Latin America that has close connections with paella. The dish primarily includes chicken cooked with rice, onions, saffron, and a variety of other grains or vegetables, depending on one’s preference.
What is the best side dish for arroz con pollo?
Arroz con Pollo is a delicious and satisfying dish that I love pairing with a cool, creamy side of yogurt or sour cream. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a generous drizzle of hot sauce can really elevate the flavors. I also like serving it alongside some fresh fruit and a refreshing green salad tossed in a tangy Cilantro Lime Dressing. If you’re in the mood for even more variety, you could try accompanying your Arroz con Pollo with a sweet Corn Salad or a juicy Fruit Salad. And for those who want to indulge in a tropical treat, a Pina Colada Salad would be the perfect complement to this hearty meal!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal that combines the flavors of Latin America and is loved by many, Arroz Con Pollo a La Tica is the perfect recipe for you. It’s a classic dish in Costa Rica and other countries in Latin America and it’s easy to see why. With its flavorsome blend of chicken, vegetables, herbs, and spices, every bite will be bursting with taste.
The recipe is also highly flexible, meaning you can easily adapt it to fit your dietary preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Furthermore, it’s an affordable option for large families or events, and it’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
So, next time you’re feeling adventurous in the kitchen, try this Arroz con Pollo La Tica recipe! With its combination of traditional Latin American spices like cilantro and hints of Asian influence with the addition of soy sauce, you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Give this recipe a try – I guarantee that everyone at the table will be asking for seconds!
Arroz Con Pollo a La Tica Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 medium carrot, small dice
- 1/2 cup green beans, cut in 1/2 inch pieces
- 1 small onion, small dice
- 1/2 red pepper, small dice
- 5 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 6 cups cooked white rice, cold
- 5 tablespoons Lizano sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon achiote powder
- salt & pepper
- 1/2 cup cilantro, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Cook carrot and green beans in salted water until tender, drain and set aside.
- In a wok-type pan, saute onion and red pepper in 2 tbsp olive oil until pepper is tender and onion is translucent. Set aside in small bowl.
- Heat remaining 3 tbsp oil in the wok until hot, then add the cooked rice, stir-frying for several minutes.
- Add the onion/pepper mixture and mix well to incorporate.
- Add the Lizano sauce, soy sauce and achiote powder. Mix well to incorporate.
- Add chicken and mix well to incorporate.
- Add salt and pepper to taste then remove from heat.
- Add cilantro and parsley.
- To serve in a typical manner, fill a serving-sized bowl with the Arroz con Pollo, tamp down, then unmold it onto the dinner plate. Served with a side salad and fried plantains. Here in Costa Rica, it would be served with french fries - a carbohydrate overload!
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Dora
Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.