Delicious Arroz con Pollo Recipe for Your Next Dinner
Welcome to my recipe article for Arroz Con Pollo! If you’re like me, you probably love the fusion of flavors from Latin American and American cuisine. This dish perfectly captures that blend, making it a staple in households all over.
Arroz con Pollo, which means “rice with chicken,” is a classic dish in many Latin American countries. What sets my recipe apart is its unique blend of spices and textures that give it an extra kick. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or entertaining friends for a night in. It’s easy to put together and doesn’t require any special cooking expertise.
As a chef who specializes in Brazilian and American cuisine, I’ve spent countless hours perfecting this recipe to bring you the ultimate Arroz Con Pollo experience. Trust me when I say that your taste buds are in for a treat!
In this article, I’ll be sharing with you all of the ingredients and steps required to create this amazing dish. So, let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal? Look no further! My arroz con pollo recipe is sure to become your new favorite dish. This Puerto Rican chicken and rice recipe is a classic that you simply must try.
Not only is this recipe full of flavor and comforting, it’s also super versatile. It’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and dinner parties alike. Your family and friends are sure to be impressed by the rich, savory combination of tender chicken and fluffy rice, all cooked up in one pot.
The secret to the perfect arroz con pollo is in the seasoning. I recommend using a blend of cumin, paprika, saffron, adobo seasoning and lots of fresh cilantro to create layers of flavor that will elevate your dish to the next level.
You’ll love how easy it is to get started on this dish – simply gather your ingredients and follow the easy-to-follow directions. Each step builds on the last until you have a tantalizing plate full of vibrant colors, smells and tastes that will bring people running to your kitchen table.
So why not add some Cuban flair with my arroz con pollo recipe? With its mouthwatering aromas, bold flavors and satisfying textures, it’s hard not to fall in love with this timeless classic recipe!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need to make this flavorful Arroz con Pollo recipe:
Chicken and Rice Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 6-8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut small
- 2 cups of long-grain white rice
- 4 cups of fat-free chicken broth
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Sofrito/Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup of diced pimentos (optional)
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon of saffron threads
- 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons of paprika
- Adobo seasoning to taste (you can find this in the international aisle of your grocery store)
With these key ingredients, you’ll be able to make an authentic and tasty arroz con pollo dish that everyone will love.
The Recipe How-To
Now, it’s time for the fun part: cooking! In this section, I will guide you through every step of making my delicious Arroz Con Pollo. Make sure you have all the required ingredients assembled beforehand to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season Chicken
First things first: it’s time to season your chicken. Mix together 1 tablespoon of adobo seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper (adjust amount to your preference). Rub the seasoning blend over 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into small pieces, until they are well coated. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Peppers
In a large pot (preferably dutch oven), heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add in 1 chopped yellow onion and sauté until they turn translucent for about 3 minutes. Then add in 1 diced red bell pepper and 1 diced green bell pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until they soften.
Step 3: Brown Chicken
Now, it’s time to add in the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot with onions and peppers. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are slightly browned.
Step 4: Add Rice and Broth
Add 2 cups long-grain white rice (rinsed under cold water and drained) to the pot, stirring constantly to combine with chicken. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until all liquid has been absorbed by the rice grains.
Then pour in 3 cups fat-free chicken broth, along with 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional), 1/2 teaspoon cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Stir everything to combine.
Step 5: Simmer and Cover
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Let the Arroz Con Pollo simmer until almost all of the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
Step 6: Fluff Rice and Add Garnishes
Remove from heat, let sit for 5 minutes covered, and then fluff the rice with a fork to make sure everything is evenly distributed. You can add in 1/4 cup diced pimentos and 1/4 cup fresh cilantro for extra flavor and garnish.
Tips for Success
- Rinse your rice in cold water until water runs clear
- Rest your Arroz Con Pollo after cooking while still covered
- If rice seems too dry or undercooked in some areas, add 1/4 cup of water or chicken broth and cook on low for another 5 minutes.
Now that you have followed my step-by-step
Substitutions and Variations
If you are looking for ways to switch up the flavors in this classic Arroz con Pollo recipe, here are some substitutions and variations to consider:
– Protein: Instead of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, try using shredded rotisserie chicken or diced pork. You could even make this recipe vegetarian by adding in some beans or extra veggies like diced bell peppers or carrots.
– Rice: While long grain white rice is the traditional choice for Arroz con Pollo, you could also use brown rice, basmati rice, or even quinoa for a healthier twist.
– Spices: If you want to play around with the seasonings in this dish, consider swapping out the saffron and cumin for other spices like turmeric, coriander, or chili powder.
– Broth: If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can use vegetable broth or even beef broth instead. Just keep in mind that it will alter the flavor slightly.
– Alcohol: While beer is used in this recipe to add flavor, you could also mix things up by using white wine or sherry. Or skip the alcohol altogether and use extra chicken broth instead.
– Cheese Sauce: If you’re looking to add some creaminess to your Arroz con Pollo, consider making a cheese sauce to drizzle on top. Ingredients like cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and sour cream can work well together to create a rich addition to the dish.
Keep in mind that these substitutions may alter the overall taste and texture of the dish but don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!
Serving and Pairing
You can serve arroz con pollo as an entree or a side dish, and it pairs well with a variety of other dishes. When serving as a main course, all you need to add is a simple salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar. The refreshing acidity of the salad complements the richness of the chicken and rice.
If you’re looking for something more substantial, try serving arroz con pollo with black beans or refried beans. The earthy flavor and creamy texture of the beans balance out the savory flavors in the dish, while also adding protein and complexity.
Another classic side dish that goes well with arroz con pollo is fried plantains. The slightly sweet flavor and crispy texture are a perfect contrast to the creamy rice and tender chicken.
For an even heartier meal, serve arroz con pollo alongside other Latin American cuisines like Cuban black beans or Puerto Rican pernil. The aromas of these dishes will blend together with the chicken’s aroma, creating a fragrant feast for your senses.
Arroz con pollo also pairs well with refreshing drinks such as limeade or beer. A crisp lager or pilsner complements the subtle spices in this dish perfectly.
Overall, my arroz con pollo recipe is versatile enough to be served in different courses and alongside various sides dishes and beverages depending on your personal preferences.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
You can easily make this arroz con pollo recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. To make it ahead of time, allow the dish to cool down completely before storing it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.
When reheating the dish, you can either use the microwave or stovetop method. To reheat in the microwave, simply transfer the amount of arroz con pollo you’d like to eat onto a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes until it reaches your desired temperature.
To reheat on the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth or water to a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the arroz con pollo until heated thoroughly.
It’s important to note that when reheating leftovers, it’s best to do so gradually instead of using high heat, ensuring that it heats evenly and doesn’t dry out. Reheating this dish properly will ensure that it maintains its delicious flavor and texture.
Tips for Perfect Results
Achieving the perfect Arroz Con Pollo may seem like a daunting task, but I’m here to reassure you that it’s not as difficult as it seems. After many years of experience in preparing this dish, I’ve learned a few tips and tricks that can help ensure that your Arroz Con Pollo turns out perfectly every time. Here are my top tips for achieving Arroz Con Pollo perfection:
1. Use long grain white rice
Using the right type of rice is crucial to achieving a perfect texture for your Arroz Con Pollo. Long grain white rice will provide the best texture and flavor, so be sure to use this type of rice when making this dish.
2. Rinse and soak your rice
Before cooking your rice, be sure to rinse it thoroughly to remove any excess starch. Soaking your rice for at least 30 minutes before cooking will also help ensure that it comes out perfectly fluffy.
3. Use bone-in chicken pieces
Using bone-in chicken pieces will add more flavor and moisture to your Arroz Con Pollo compared to using boneless chicken. I recommend using a combination of chicken thighs and breasts, cut into small pieces.
4. Spice it up
Don’t be afraid to add some heat to your Arroz Con Pollo if you prefer a spicier dish. Adding diced jalapenos or hot sauce can take this dish from good to great.
5. Let it rest
After cooking your Arroz Con Pollo, be sure to let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make for a more delicious dish overall.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the perfect Arroz Con Pollo every time you prepare it. Don’t forget to experiment with different spices and ingredients to find the perfect variation for you!
Bottom Line
Looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines the best of both worlds, Brazilian and American cuisine? You won’t go wrong with this delicious arroz con pollo, a classic Puerto Rican chicken and rice dish that is loved by many. By using our recipe, you’ll be able to create a crowd-pleasing meal that is packed with tons of flavors and nutrients.
Whether you’re an experienced chef or just trying to whip up something new, our arroz con pollo recipe has got you covered. With easy-to-follow instructions and a list of simple ingredients, you’re sure to impress your family and friends with this tasty dish.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with our recipe by adding your twist or substituting some ingredients to suit your preferences. You can try out different types of meat, vegetables or even spices. You may discover your unique take on the classic arroz con pollo recipe!
So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and give this arroz con pollo recipe a try, and let us know what you think!
My Arroz Con Pollo Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, chopped
- 1 2/3 cups long grain white rice
- 16 ounces beer
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon adobo seasoning
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 (14 ounce) can fat free chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons cumin
- 2 tablespoons saffron
- 4 ounces frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons diced pimentos
- fresh cilantro (to garnish)
- salt
Instructions
- Rinse Chicken;pat dry.
- Heat oil.
- in a 16inch skillet cook chicken uncovered over meduim heat about 10-15 minutes or untill browned.
- remove chicken.
- add uncooked rice to skillet.
- cook and stir over medium heat untill rice is slightly transulsent.
- stir in chicken broth, beer, and all dry ingredients.
- place chicken on top of rice mixture.
- season lightly with salt and pepper.
- bring to boil; reduce heat.
- simmer covered, for 30 to 35 minutes.
- Remove chicken and keep warm.
- stir in peas and pimentos into rice mixture; heat through about 5-7 minutes.
- transfer rice mixture into serving bowl.
- Arrange chicken on top of rice.
- Garnish with cliantro.
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.