Delicious and Easy Arroz Con Pollo Recipe
Welcome to my kitchen! As a chef specializing in Brazilian and American cuisine, bringing the flavors of both worlds into my recipes is always a pleasure. Today, I’m here to share with you an exciting recipe that combines the best of two cuisines: Arroz con Pollo with a Queso Kick.
This dish is inspired by the traditional Mexican chicken rice dish, and it features a unique twist that will make your taste buds dance – the delightful melted queso cheese mixed in with the Spanish rice mix. The combination of savory chicken, bold spices, and mild melting cheese creates a fantastic explosion of flavors in every bite.
Here’s what makes this recipe stand out from others: it is one-pot, which means easy cleanup while preserving all the fantastic flavors absorbed throughout the cooking process. Plus, it is easy to make – even for beginner home cooks or busy people who want to whip up something delicious quickly.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dinner recipe that’s guaranteed to wow your guests, look no further than this Arroz Con Pollo with a Queso Kick recipe. So let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Picture this: a deliciously aromatic, one-pot meal filled with savory chicken and rice, wrapped in a cheesy queso kick. That’s right. Arroz Con Pollo with a Queso Kick Recipe is the dish you’ve been waiting for!
Not only is the combination of flavors simply irresistible, but it’s also an incredibly easy recipe to execute, even on your busiest days. Trust me when I say that this will quickly become a family favorite, a perfect go-to recipe that everyone will enjoy.
What could be more comforting than a hot and hearty bowl of this Spanish rice mix with chunks of tender boneless skinless chicken breast? And let’s not forget about the extra kick that the queso adds to this classic Mexican-style Arroz Con Pollo. It perfectly combines creamy cheese and rice with just enough kick to make your taste buds dance with delight. The smoky flavor from the smoked queso and the spice from chile con queso make all the difference in taking this dish up to another level.
Are you looking for a quick dinner recipe to add to your menu arsenal? This is it!
Whether you’re serving this dish as the main course or as a side dish alongside other Mexican delights such as burritos or tacos, it is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So what are you waiting for? Try out our Arroz Con Pollo With a Queso Kick right away!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 package of Spanish rice mix
- 1 can (14.5 ounce) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (14.5 ounce) chicken broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the queso kick:
- 1 cup shredded queso cheese
- Diced jalapeños or green chilies for extra kick
Note: If you don’t have a Spanish rice mix available, you can substitute it by using long grain rice and adding additional seasonings like cumin and chili powder.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Cook Chicken
The first step in making this recipe is to cook the chicken. Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts that have been cut into 1-inch pieces to the pan and cook until browned on all sides.
Step 2: Make the Rice
Next, it’s time to make the rice. Prepare one package of Spanish rice mix according to package instructions. Then, add 1 cup of diced green peppers and onions, and one tablespoon of minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for an additional minute.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Add the cooked rice mixture to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Mix everything together well. Top everything off with 1 cup of shredded smoked queso cheese for that extra queso kick.
Finally, cover the skillet and let everything simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and has soaked up all the flavors from the chicken, vegetables, and cheese.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
When ready to serve, garnish with chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
This dish is perfect as a one-pot meal or can be used as a side dish at your next gathering. Serve with some Spanish rice or even Cuban chicken for a delicious Latin American feast!
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about this Arroz Con Pollo recipe with a Queso Kick is that it’s versatile and adaptable to different tastes and ingredients. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:
– Rice: You can use any long-grain rice you like, whether it’s white, brown, or a mix. You can also use a Spanish rice mix with seasoning already added to it for added convenience.
– Chicken: While boneless skinless chicken breasts and chicken thighs are preferred for this recipe, you can substitute them with cubed pork, diced ham, or even shredded beef.
– Cheese: For the queso kick, you can use any kind of cheese that melts well such as shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese. If you want an extra kick, try smoked queso or chile con queso for more depth of flavor. Try adding in some diced green chiles or jalapenos if you like it spicy.
– Vegetables: While this recipe calls for diced onions and red bell peppers, feel free to add other vegetables such as green beans, peas, corn or carrots.
– Pressure Cooker Method: If you’re short on time, try using a pressure cooker instead of the stovetop method. Simply follow the instructions provided with your pressure cooker for cooking times.
– Soupy rice (Arroz caldoso): This is a variation on Arroz Con Pollo where more liquid is added to create a soupy texture. Additional ingredients such as diced ham (Jamon) and saffron can be added to create a soupy version called “Arroz con Pollo caldoso con queso y jamon.”
Whether you’re looking for dietary preferences or exploring new ingredients, these substitutions and variations will let you customize the recipe to your taste buds.
Serving and Pairing
Get ready to fall in love with this mouth-watering Arroz Con Pollo With a Queso Kick recipe, the perfect Mexican-American fusion dish. A one-pot recipe that’s easy to serve, this delicious meal is designed to satisfy your family and friends, whether you’re eating together or throwing a party!
My personal favorite way to serve this dish is with a generous dollop of sour cream and some fresh chopped cilantro on top. It adds an extra burst of flavor and aroma to the already rich and savory chicken rice flavor.
Arroz Con Pollo With a Queso Kick can be enjoyed as a main course all on its own or as a side dish to complement other classic Mexican dishes like tacos or fajitas. You can also add some sliced avocado or crunchy tortilla chips for added texture and crunch.
If you want to enjoy this dish with a refreshing drink, go for a light and fruity beer like Corona or Modelo. The slight bitterness pairs exceptionally well with the cheesy and spicy kick of the dish. Alternatively, if you prefer a non-alcoholic beverage, try serving it with an ice-cold glass of lemonade, iced tea or even a horchata.
Overall, this Arroz Con Pollo With A Queso Kick meal is sure to leave everyone at the table satisfied!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Now that you’ve made this delicious Arroz Con Pollo With a Queso Kick, you might be wondering how you can make it ahead of time, store it and reheat it. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
Make-Ahead:
This dish is perfect for making ahead of time. Simply prepare the recipe as instructed and let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can then refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, simply reheat the dish in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Storing:
Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality and freshness of this dish. Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days max. I recommend always using glass containers as they keep food tasting fresher longer than plastic ones.
Reheating:
It’s important to reheat this dish properly to ensure that it’s safe to eat and maintains its delicious flavors. You can reheat arroz con pollo with queso kick either in the oven or on the stovetop depending on your preference:
To reheat in the oven:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Take the dish out of fridge, remove any wrap if necessary.
Add some chicken stock or water into the rice (as needed).
Cover with aluminum foil.
Bake for 20-30 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
To reheat on stovetop:
Take the dish out of fridge
In a large saucepan, add some chicken stock or water into the rice left-overs (as needed). Turn on heat medium-high.
Bring chicken stock/rice mixture up to boiling point while stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.
Turn heat down and simmer for two minute while stirring constantly until reached 165°F (75°C).
Finally, make sure to give your reheated leftovers an extra kick with a dollop of sour cream or some fresh cilantro on top. Your leftover dish will be warmed up deliciously!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making the perfect Arroz con Pollo with a Queso Kick recipe, there are a few tips and tricks that can help elevate your meal from good to great. As someone who has spent years perfecting this dish, here are my top tips for ensuring your Arroz con Pollo is both delicious and flavorful.
1. Use Long Grain Rice
One of the keys to making good arroz con pollo is using the right type of rice. For this recipe, it’s best to use long grain rice. The grains are less starchy and have a firmer texture, which helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy or clumpy during cooking.
2. Season and Brown the Chicken Thoroughly
Before adding the chicken to the dish, make sure to season it well with salt and pepper. Then, brown it thoroughly in olive oil over medium-high heat. This will help add an extra layer of flavor to the final dish.
3. Add Extra Queso for an Extra Kick
If you’re a cheese-lover like me, don’t be afraid to add extra queso to this recipe for an extra kick of flavor. You can also experiment with different types of queso, such as smoked queso or queso jamon, to give your arroz con pollo a unique twist.
4. Be Patient While Cooking
While it can be tempting to rush through the cooking process, especially if you’re hungry and eager to dig in, taking your time is key when cooking this dish. Make sure to follow each step carefully, allowing the chicken and rice to cook fully before serving.
5. Serve with Sour Cream
For added creaminess and tanginess, try serving your Arroz con Pollo with a dollop of sour cream on top. It pairs perfectly with the richness of the queso and adds another layer of flavor to this already-delicious dish.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to make a truly delicious and flavorful Arroz con Pollo with a Queso Kick. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and ingredients to find the perfect recipe for you!
FAQ
Now that you’ve got the hang of the recipe, let’s answer some frequently asked questions to help make your cooking experience even smoother. Don’t worry if you have any doubts or questions about the recipe; we’ve got all your concerns covered in this section. So, buckle up and read on!
What pairs well with arroz con pollo?
Are you in the mood for a satisfying and flavorful meal that is both filling and easy to prepare? Arroz Con Pollo might just be the perfect dish! This classic recipe is traditionally served with a side of yogurt or sour cream, plus some hot sauce to give it an extra kick. Fresh fruit and a big green salad tossed in a Cilantro Lime Dressing are also great complements to this hearty one-pot meal. And if you’re feeling really adventurous, why not try pairing it with some Corn Salad, Fruit Salad or even a Pina Colada Salad?
Why is my arroz con pollo mushy?
As a chef experienced in Brazilian and American cuisine, I would like to share my tips and recommendations for making a delicious one-pot dinner of Arroz con Pollo served with a tasty side of plantains. However, one common problem that many cooks encounter when preparing Arroz con Pollo is that the dish turns out mushy. This could be due to overcooking or adding too much water.
What is an ACP Mexican?
This dish, called ACP, is a combination of chicken and rice that is similar to a paella. Originally from Latin America, it has recently gained popularity in Mexican restaurants across the Southern United States. The chicken thighs are first browned and then added to the annatto-tinted rice, resulting in a flavorful and filling meal.
What was McCall cooking in equalizer 2?
In a scene from Equalizer 2, McCall showed off his culinary skills in the kitchen, preparing a savory meal that included classic Russian-style Pelmeni, a meat-and-onion filled dumpling. Along with the Pelmeni, he also whipped up a refreshing salad, creamy mashed potatoes, and an assortment of savory vegetables to round out the feast.
Bottom Line
I hope this recipe for Arroz Con Pollo with a Queso Kick has inspired you to try something new in the kitchen. With the perfect blend of Spanish rice mix, boneless skinless chicken breasts, and queso cheese, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.
Whether you’re looking to add a little extra kick to your Mexican chicken rice or want to impress your guests at your next dinner party, this recipe has got you covered. One pot, easy-to-follow directions, and minimal preparation time make this dish a go-to for any occasion.
So what are you waiting for? Whip up a batch of Arroz Con Pollo with a Queso Kick and savor every bite. Your taste buds will be delighted and your family and friends will thank you for introducing them to such a flavorful meal. Don’t forget to share this recipe with others and see how they enjoy it too!
Arroz Con Pollo With a Queso Kick Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (8 ounce) container white cheese dip
- 1 (12 ounce) box Spanish rice mix
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Spray a baking dish with cooking spray.
- Pour rice mix, the amount of water called for, and canned tomatoes into the dish, stirring together.
- Cook the chicken in a skillet until the outsides are seared and starting to brown.
- Place chicken over the rice mixture and cover with foil paper.
- Place in an oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil.
- Pour the cheese over the top of the chicken, not forgetting the exposed rice.
- Place back in the oven for 15 minutes or until chicken is white all the way through.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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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.