Delicious Slow Cooker Recipe: Arroz Con Pollo
Picture this: The aroma of richly seasoned chicken filling your kitchen, the sound of rice cooking slowly to perfection in your slow cooker. The anticipation builds as you check the clock, wondering when it will finally be time to indulge in this delicious and comforting dish.
I present to you my Slow Cooker Arroz Con Pollo recipe – a mouth-watering combination of savory chicken, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice. This traditional Latin American favorite is an irresistible one-pot meal that never fails to impress.
My recipe is a blend of Cuban and Puerto Rican styles, which makes it all the more special. Trust me, it’s pure comfort food at its finest, perfect for any family dinner or special occasion.
Using a slow cooker for this recipe ensures that every ingredient – from the chicken thighs to the rice – cooks slowly and evenly. This technique allows the flavors to mingle and mature before you stir in traditional Arroz con Pollo ingredients like tomato sauce and diced tomatoes.
Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinner routine or impress guests, this Slow Cooker Arroz Con Pollo is a must-try. But be warned – once you try these authentic flavors, there’s no turning back.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Listen up, my fellow foodies. You don’t want to miss out on this one. I can vouch for this recipe – it’s a showstopper!
With each spoonful of this Slow Cooker Arroz Con Pollo recipe, you’ll be transported to the sunny beaches of Puerto Rico or the colorful streets of Cuba, where arroz con pollo is a staple dish. This spicy, flavorsome meal may just become your new go-to dinner.
Why will you love this recipe? Because it’s hearty, delicious and oh-so-easy to prepare. Imagine juicy chicken breasts and tender thighs infused with spices like paprika and cumin cooked to perfection in a slow cooker with yellow rice mix and savory chicken broth. The rice soaks up all the delicious juices from the chicken, diced tomatoes and bell peppers to create a symphony of flavors in your mouth.
Not only is it delicious, but this dish is also packed with healthy ingredients like vitamin-C-rich bell peppers and protein-packed chicken that will leave you feeling satisfied for hours. Plus, it can feed a whole family or make excellent leftovers for the next day.
And don’t worry about slaving over the stove since it’s made entirely in a slow cooker or crockpot- all you have to do is dump the ingredients in and let it cook while you sit back and relax.
So why wait? Give this Slow Cooker Arroz Con Pollo recipe a try, and enjoy mouth-watering Spanish-style chicken rice at home in no time.
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need for this slow cooker arroz con pollo recipe:
– 2 cups of yellow rice mix
– 3 cups of chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) Italian-style stewed tomatoes, undrained
– 2 whole chickens, cut into pieces
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 bell peppers, chopped (1 large red, 1 large, orange, and 1 large yellow)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste
– 4 chicken thighs and 2 chicken breast halves, skin removed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
You can prepare the rice separately in a rice cooker or use the rice ingredients listed above to cook it with the chicken in the slow cooker.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have all of our ingredients prepped and ready, it’s time to start cooking. In this section, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating this delicious Slow Cooker Arroz Con Pollo recipe.
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Be generous with the seasoning as it will add lots of flavor to the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the chicken in one tablespoon of olive oil until golden brown on both sides. This adds extra flavor to the arroz con pollo.
Step 3: Prepare Rice Ingredients
While chicken is browning, rinse two cups of rice in cold water until water runs clear. Once rinsed, drain any excess water from the rice. Also chop one small onion, two bell peppers (red, orange or yellow), and six cloves of garlic.
Step 4: Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker
When the chicken is finished browning, place it in a single layer at the bottom of a slow cooker. Follow this up by adding chopped bell peppers and onions on top. Next sprinkle in the chopped garlic, one can of diced tomatoes and a cup of chicken broth.
Step 5: Layer Yellow Rice Mix over Chicken and Vegetables
After layering vegetables over chicken, place a layer of yellow rice mix on top. Spread it out evenly over everything.
Step 6: Continue Layering Chicken Breasts and Vegetables
Repeat Steps 4 and 5 twice more until all ingredients are used up–this process should take about 30 minutes. When rice is placed on top for its final layering add four cups water instead of chicken broth this time to give enough liquid for cooking the rice.
Step 7: Cook for 3-4 hours
Set the slow cooker to high heat and let it cook for three to four hours. The exact cooking time will depend on your slow cooker; make sure you check on it occasionally to ensure the rice isn’t overcooked or burnt.
Step 8: Fluff Rice and Serve
Once the dish is finished cooking, fluff the rice with a fork and stir everything together. Serve warm and enjoy the flavorful meal you just created!
Congratulations! You’ve successfully cooked a delicious Slow Cooker Arroz Con Pollo. This recipe is perfect for any weekday dinner or for whenever you want to impress your guests at a party.
Substitutions and Variations
Listen closely, my friends, for I am about to bestow upon you the secrets of the culinary world. Well, maybe not exactly. But fear not, as I’ve got some tricks up my sleeve to help you create even more variations of this already fantastic slow cooker arroz con pollo recipe.
Firstly, let’s talk about the rice. Many people use a yellow rice mix for this dish, but don’t be afraid to switch it up and use white or brown rice instead. It won’t be exactly the same as the traditional arroz con pollo, but trust me when I say it’ll still be delicious.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to infuse some extra Spanish flavors into this dish, try adding some chorizo sausage or saffron threads to the mix. For those of you that want a little kick in your meals, throw in some diced jalapeno peppers or red pepper flakes.
And let’s not forget about the chicken. While this recipe calls for whole chickens, you can easily substitute it with skinless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts if you prefer white meat.
Of course, you can always change up the vegetable components too. Bell peppers are used traditionally in this recipe, but don’t hesitate to add some green beans, corn, or even chopped zucchini for some extra vitamins.
Lastly, if you’re feeling fancy but don’t want to put in much effort, try switching up the cooking method. This recipe can be converted into a pressure cooker recipe quite easily or even cooked on the stovetop. The possibilities are endless!
So go ahead and have fun experimenting with different variations of this classic dish – there’s truly no wrong answer here!
Serving and Pairing
Now that your slow cooker arroz con pollo is ready, it’s time to add some finishing touches and get ready to enjoy this fulfilling meal. This flavorful and aromatic chicken and rice recipe is perfect for feeding a hungry family or for serving a crowd.
To serve, take a generous scoop of the slow cooker arroz con pollo and dump it onto a plate, then sprinkle with some fresh cilantro. This will give the dish a pop of brightness and an extra layer of flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, you can also garnish the dish with some sliced limes or avocado slices for a unique, tangy taste.
For pairing, nothing beats the classic combo of arroz con pollo with black beans. You can prepare a simple bowl of black beans on its own or with some spices for added kick. Serve the beans separately from the arroz con pollo so that everyone can choose their desired ratio of chicken and rice to beans.
Another great side dish option for serving with your slow cooker arroz con pollo is roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or carrots. The smokiness and sweetness of the roasted vegetables pairs perfectly with the tangy and savory flavors of the arroz con pollo.
If you’re in the mood for something refreshing, prepare a quick green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette dressing. The crispness of the greens will create the perfect contrast to the warm and comforting flavors of the arroz con pollo.
Whatever you choose to pair with this dish, one thing’s for sure – your taste buds are going to thank you!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Picture this, you’ve just finished cooking up a big pot of Slow Cooker Arroz Con Pollo and your friends have been eagerly waiting to dive in. But what’s that, it seems like there’s still some left! Don’t fret, because with this recipe you can easily make-ahead and store your leftovers for the next day (or week) without sacrificing any of the delicious flavors.
Once done cooking, if you’re not planning to serve immediately, allow the arroz con pollo to cool down before transferring it into storage containers. When storing the dish in the fridge, simply place it in an airtight container and store for up to 4-5 days.
If you plan to freeze it instead, let it completely cool down before placing it in freezer-safe containers. Frozen arroz con pollo typically lasts for up to three months. Make sure to label your containers with the date as well so you can keep track of its freshness.
When reheating, there are a few things to keep in mind. If you’re heating up individual portions, the microwave is a quick and easy method. It’s also best to add some extra liquid such as chicken broth or water before heat – this allows the rice grains to retain their moisture and prevents them from drying out.
If you’re reheating a larger batch of arroz con pollo, using a stovetop is your best bet. Simply transfer all of your leftovers back into your slow cooker or pot and add some extra liquid until you reach your desired consistency. Heat on medium-low heat while stirring gently every few minutes until warmed through.
Remember that reheated rice should be heated thoroughly and should not be kept out at room temperature for more than two hours total – this means both refrigeration time and reheating time combined. By following those guidelines, not only will you save time with making mealtime easier but also make sure that you’re reducing the risk of food-related illnesses.
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you have all the ingredients and steps to make this tasty Arroz Con Pollo in your slow cooker, let me guide you through the tips that will ensure your dish is perfect every time.
One essential tip to achieve the best Arroz Con Pollo is to season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and paprika before cooking. This seasoning not only adds flavor but also helps to seal in the juices and keep the chicken from becoming dry during the long cooking process.
Another tip for a delicious arroz con pollo is to use high-quality ingredients. Use fresh vegetables like bell peppers, onion, and garlic for maximum flavor. Try using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought, adding an extra layer of depth and richness to your dish.
It’s also crucial not to add too much liquid to the rice. The chicken broth and stewed tomatoes already add plenty of moisture, so only add enough additional broth or water to cook the rice fully. Adding too much liquid can result in mushy or overcooked rice.
Another tip is to fluff the rice with a fork after cooking and then let it rest for several minutes before serving. Doing this ensures that each grain of rice absorbs all the flavors from the sauce and will take your Arroz Con Pollo recipe to another level.
If you’re short on time, you can opt for skinless chicken thighs or breast halves instead of using whole chickens. You can also try using a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker or even a rice cooker for quicker preparation.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of spices or vegetables. Add some peas or carrots for extra color and texture, or swap Italian-style stewed tomatoes for diced tomatoes with green chilies for some added heat. After all, cooking is all about creative expression!
By following these tips and getting creative with your ingredients, you’re sure to enjoy a delicious Arroz Con Pollo that’s both comforting and flavorful.
Bottom Line
I hope this Slow Cooker Arroz Con Pollo Recipe has brought a glimpse of the Brazilian and American cultures to your home! This amazing recipe blends together flavors and aromas that will transport you to a faraway land, where great food and unforgettable memories are made.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe will surely leave you impressed with its vibrant colors, rich textures, and bold flavors. With the help of your slow cooker, you’ll enjoy a mouth-watering dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
So, gather your friends and family around the table and enjoy this delicious arroz con pollo. I can guarantee it’ll be a hit! And don’t forget to share your feedback with me in the comments below; I’d love to hear about your experience with this marvelous recipe.
Thank you for choosing my recipe, and until next time, happy cooking!
Slow Cooker Arroz Con Pollo Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 (3 lb) whole chickens, cut into pieces
- 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can Italian-style stewed tomatoes
- 1 (16 ounce) bag frozen peas
- 2 (14 ounce) cans chicken broth
- 1 (12 ounce) jar red peppers, drained and cut into strips
- 2 (8 ounce) boxes of spanish-syle rice yellow rice mix
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in the cooking vessel. Stir well. Cover and cook: Low-8 hrs (or) High-5 hours.
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.