Delicious and Easy Stove Top Arroz Con Pollo Recipe
Do you love the satisfying feeling of creating a homemade meal that is not only delicious but also healthy? Look no further than this stove top Arroz Con Pollo recipe that I have perfected over the years. As a chef with experience in both Brazilian and American cuisine, I’ve developed a recipe that combines the best of both worlds: the flavorful, robust spices of Puerto Rican chicken rice and the quick and easy preparation of a classic One-Pot dish.
This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a comforting and hearty meal without compromising their health goals. It’s made with boneless skinless chicken thighs that are seared to perfection, and quick-cooking brown rice that packs in more fiber than traditional white rice. The dish is infused with ground turmeric and cumin which not only add depth of flavor, but also bring numerous health benefits like reducing inflammation and aiding in digestion.
Gather round a table filled with friends and family and enjoy this easy, flavorful, one-pan dish with arroz con pollo chicken ingredients. Whether you’re trying to switch up your meal routine or impressing guests at your next dinner party, this Arroz Con Pollo recipe will not disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a dish that is not only healthy but also packed with flavor? Look no further than this Healthy Stove Top Arroz Con Pollo Recipe! Here are some reasons why you will absolutely love this recipe:
First and foremost, this dish is incredibly easy to make. With just one pot, 30 minutes of your time, and minimal prep work, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal on the table.
Secondly, the combination of flavors in this recipe is simply amazing. The boneless, skinless chicken thighs are seared to perfection in olive oil, then simmered with aromatic garlic and spices like cumin and turmeric. The quick-cooking brown rice soaks up all the flavors of the low sodium chicken broth, no-salt-added whole tomatoes, diced pimentos, and onion.
Furthermore, this Healthy Stove Top Arroz Con Pollo Recipe is super versatile. You can customize it to suit your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. For example, you could swap out the boneless skinless chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts or even cubed pork. You could use yellow rice instead of brown rice to make it more reminiscent of Spanish or Cuban-style arroz con pollo. The possibilities are endless!
Lastly, this dish is perfect for meal planning and leftovers. It stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully without losing any of its texture or flavor.
In conclusion, this Healthy Stove Top Arroz Con Pollo Recipe is an easy flavorful one-pot wonder that you will want to add to your recipe collection right away!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients needed to make this healthy stove top arroz con pollo recipe:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 2 cups quick-cooking brown rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz.) no-salt-added whole tomatoes, undrained and crushed by hand
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Sea salt to taste
- Optional: 1 jar (4 oz.) diced pimento, drained.
These simple ingredients come together to create a delicious Puerto Rican chicken rice dish known as arroz con pollo. Additionally, the usage of brown rice in this recipe makes it healthier than the traditional dish made with white rice.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we’ve gathered all of our ingredients, let’s dive into the recipe! This healthy version of traditional Arroz Con Pollo is easy to make and will be ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) no-salt-added whole tomatoes, undrained and chopped
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups quick-cooking brown rice
- 1/4 cup diced pimento
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
Directions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Season the chicken thighs with the ground cumin, ground turmeric, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften.
- Add in the canned no-salt-added whole tomatoes and cook until most of the liquid has evaporated.
- Stir in the quick-cooking brown rice so that it coats all of the vegetables.
- Add in the low sodium chicken broth and diced pimento.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and place the chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.
- Cover and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
One pot cook
This recipe is perfect when you want a delicious, healthy meal that only requires one pan to cook. The best part is that you can customize it to your liking by adding in different vegetables like carrots or peas.
Skillet Arroz Con Pollo
Traditionally, Arroz Con Pollo is made in a dutch oven or pressure cooker, but this recipe cuts down on time and mess by using a skillet instead. This means that the recipe is much more accessible to home chefs who may not have specialized equipment like a pressure cooker.
Substitutions and Variations
- Chicken: Use boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs.
- Rice:Â Opt for regular medium-grain white rice or yellow rice for a more Cuban or Puerto Rican-style Arroz Con Pollo
- Spice Level: Kick up the spice by adding sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Pressure Cooker: If you do have a pressure cooker, you can
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous in the kitchen or simply need to swap out an ingredient, fear not – there are several substitutions and variations you can make to this arroz con pollo recipe while still maintaining its mouth-watering flavors.
For the chicken:
While boneless skinless chicken thighs are recommended for this recipe, you can also use bone-in chicken thighs, chicken breasts, or even a mix of both. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the thickness of the meat.
For the rice:
Quick-cooking brown rice is a healthier alternative to white rice and adds a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the dish. However, you can also use medium-grain white rice or yellow rice for a more traditional Puerto Rican or Spanish twist. Note that cooking times may vary slightly depending on your chosen grains.
For the vegetables:
Don’t have green bell pepper on hand? No problem! You can substitute it with red, yellow, or orange bell pepper for some added sweetness. Alternatively, you can add diced carrots, celery, or zucchini for an even heartier and nutritious meal.
For the seasoning:
This recipe uses ground cumin and turmeric to add warmth and earthy flavors to the dish. However, feel free to experiment with other spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, dried oregano, or adobo seasoning for a more Cuban-style variation.
With these substitutions and variations in mind, you can customize this recipe to your liking while still enjoying its easy-to-make and delicious flavors.
Serving and Pairing
Now that your Healthy Stove Top Arroz Con Pollo Recipe is ready, it’s time to enjoy this delicious dish. This recipe makes for a complete and satisfying meal on its own, but you can always pair it with your favorite complimentary dishes too.
To make the experience more enjoyable, I recommend serving the Arroz Con Pollo piping hot from the pot. The aroma of the spices and garlic will fill the air and make everyone hungry in no time.
I like to garnish my Arroz Con Pollo with some diced pimento on top. This gives a pop of color and a sweet, tangy finish to the dish. You can also sprinkle some chopped cilantro or parsley for an extra freshness.
The great thing about this dish is that it’s versatile enough to pair with many sides. You can serve it with a simple salad or some steamed vegetables. If you want something more robust, try pairing it with black beans or refried beans.
For a complete Puerto Rican meal, serve it with some fried plantains or tostones on the side – this will give you a true taste of the island. If you want to keep things simple, just grab some store-bought plantain chips and serve them alongside.
If you’re feeling fancy, why not pair it with some sangria? A glass of white or red sangria will complement the dish perfectly during hot summer nights.
Whether you’re serving up a weeknight dinner or hosting a party, the Healthy Stove Top Arroz Con Pollo Recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. So bring out your favorite plates and enjoy this easy flavorful recipe with your loved ones!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the many advantages of this healthy stove top Arroz con Pollo recipe is that you can prepare it ahead of time and store it properly until the moment you want to enjoy it. If you’re short on time in the morning, consider preparing the dish a day or two in advance and storing it in an airtight container in the fridge.
When it comes to reheating, there are several methods you can use. My personal favorite is to use a microwave, as it’s quick and easy. Simply place your serving in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 45 seconds to 1 minute. If you prefer to reheat using a stovetop, add some broth or water to a skillet over medium heat, then add your leftover Arroz con Pollo and stir continuously until heated through. For best results, I recommend avoiding reheating in the oven or broiler, as this may dry out the rice and chicken.
If you have leftovers after reheating, don’t worry! You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, allow the dish to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating using one of the above-mentioned methods.
It’s worth mentioning that while this recipe is great for leftovers or meal prep, please take care not to let leftover chicken sit at room temperature for too long. You should refrigerate any leftovers within two hours of cooking or discard them altogether.
Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve the perfect Arroz Con Pollo, follow these tips:
Firstly, it is crucial to choose boneless skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. This cut of meat renders tender and juicy chicken pieces that blend well with the seasoned rice. You can also use bone-in chicken if preferred; however, it may require additional cooking time to ensure that the chicken is perfectly cooked.
Secondly, ensure that you sear the chicken thighs before adding them to the rice. This procedure adds flavor and texture to the dish resulting in a tasty and inviting meal. When searing, you can add your favorite seasoning, such as black pepper or paprika.
Thirdly, do not rush when cooking this dish. To achieve delicious results, cook the rice slowly over low heat until it has fully absorbed the flavors of the other ingredients. Stir occasionally and ensure that you check on the rice every couple of minutes.
Fourthly, reserve some chicken stock in case you need it to moisten the rice further at a later stage. The stock contains essential seasonings that your dish may require later during cooking.
Fifthly, always let your cooked Arroz Con Pollo rest for at least five minutes before serving. This time allows for flavors to meld together, resulting in an even more fragrant and delightful meal.
In conclusion, these simple tips will help you make a hearty and healthy Arroz Con Pollo recipe that is perfect for any occasion!
FAQ
As a chef, I’ve received plenty of questions from readers regarding my recipe, especially the stove top Arroz Con Pollo recipe. Therefore, I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions that should help you understand the recipe better and make the cooking process as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Read on!
How healthy is arroz con pollo?
Arroz con pollo is a classic Latin American cuisine that boasts a relatively high caloric content. Usually, each portion of this dish is loaded with carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which are all essential nutrients for our bodies. Besides, it comes packed with various veggies, spices, and herbs, giving it an exceptional nutritional profile.
Why is my arroz con pollo mushy?
Looking for a delicious one-pot dinner that pairs perfectly with plantain? Look no further than the classic dish of Arroz con Pollo! However, if you’ve noticed that your Arroz con Pollo is coming out a bit too mushy, there may be a few reasons behind it. One of the main culprits could be adding too much water or overcooking it. But don’t worry! With a few simple tips and tricks, you can have perfectly cooked and fluffy Arroz con Pollo every time.
How many calories are in arroz con pollo?
This recipe contains a total of 556 calories and 33 grams of fat, including 8 grams of saturated fat and 94 milligrams of cholesterol.
Is paella the same as arroz con pollo?
A classic Latin American dish, arroz con pollo, which translates to rice with chicken in Spanish, shares some resemblances with paella. The dish usually features chicken cooked together with rice, onions, saffron, and various grains or vegetables.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful and healthy one-pot meal, give this Stove Top Arroz Con Pollo Recipe a try. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend dinner with friends and family. You’ll fall in love with the fragrant aroma of the spices and vegetables simmering together in harmony, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will keep your taste buds dancing.
And the best part? This Arroz Con Pollo recipe is so versatile that you can make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients or making substitutions as needed. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken thighs or rice, making for an efficient and delicious meal.
So go ahead, fire up your skillet and give this recipe a shot. I guarantee it will become a staple in your kitchen in no time.
Healthy Stove Top Arroz Con Pollo Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves minched garlic
- 1 diced green bell pepper
- 1 cup quick-cooking brown rice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can no-salt-added whole tomatoes
- low sodium chicken broth
- 8 manzanilla olives, halved
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup drained diced pimento
Instructions
- sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper.
- heat oil in a dutch oven.
- add chicken and cook until browned.
- return the dutch oven to the stove add the onion, garlic and green pepper and cook about five minutes.
- stir in the rice, cumin and turmeric and cook 1 minute.
- add the chicken, tomatoes, broth and olives.
- simmer about thirty minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- stir in peas and pimentos and cook 5 more minutes.
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.