How to Make Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken and Rice)

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with color, flavor, and comfort all in one pot, then you’re going to love this authentic Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken and Rice) recipe. This classic Latin American favorite combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice infused with rich spices and herbs, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken and Rice) promises to bring joy and satisfaction to every occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A one-pot wonder: Everything cooks together, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
• A burst of authentic flavors: Citrus, herbs, and spices meld perfectly to create a rich, vibrant taste.
• Affordable and accessible: Uses common pantry staples and fresh ingredients that won’t break the bank.
• Kid-friendly comfort: Mild, yet flavorful, it’s a dish both kids and adults adore.
• Versatile and adaptable: Easily tailored to accommodate dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple, essential ingredients that each play a unique role in delivering the authentic taste and comforting texture you expect from classic Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken and Rice). Fresh produce adds brightness, while spices and broth build a rich foundation.

• Chicken pieces: Thighs or drumsticks with skin-on add moisture and flavor.
• Long-grain rice: Absorbs all the delicious juices without becoming mushy.
• Bell peppers: Provide sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.
• Onions and garlic: Form the aromatic base essential for depth.
• Chicken broth: Infuses the rice and chicken with savory goodness.
• Tomato sauce or diced tomatoes: Add a subtle tang and rich color.
• Fresh cilantro: Used as a garnish to brighten up the final dish.
• Olive oil: For sautéing and layering flavor.
• Spices: Ground cumin, paprika, and saffron or turmeric for that classic golden hue and earthy aroma.
• Peas: Add sweetness and texture contrast in the final stages.

Variations for Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken and Rice)

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to customize based on your taste buds, dietary needs, or available ingredients. Feel free to mix and match components to make the dish your own!

• Spicy kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to turn up the heat.
• Vegetarian version: Substitute chicken with hearty mushrooms or extra veggies like zucchini and chickpeas.
• Different proteins: Swap chicken for turkey, pork, or even shrimp for a fresh twist.
• Brown rice swap: Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
• Green olives and capers: Stir in for a briny, Mediterranean flair.

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How to Make Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken and Rice)

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken pieces dry and seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and ground cumin. This step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken skin-side down until golden brown and crispy, then flip and cook the other side briefly before removing and setting aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add diced onions, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers. Sauté until they soften, releasing their sweet, savory scents that form the soul of the dish.

Step 4: Add Rice and Spices

Stir in the rice, making sure each grain is coated with the oil and aromatics. Sprinkle in paprika, cumin, turmeric or saffron, then add the tomato sauce or diced tomatoes, stirring well to combine.

Step 5: Cook Together

Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot, nestling them into the rice mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook gently until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 25 to 30 minutes.

Step 6: Add Peas and Finish

Stir in peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a pop of color and sweetness. Once done, remove from heat and let it rest covered for a few minutes to allow the flavors to settle.

Pro Tips for Making Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken and Rice)

• Use bone-in chicken: It imparts richer flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
• Don’t skip browning: This adds essential depth and aroma to the dish.
• Toast the rice: Sautéing the rice before adding liquids enhances its nuttiness.
• Cover tightly: A snug lid traps steam and cooks the rice perfectly every time.
• Rest before serving: Letting it sit off the heat allows moisture to redistribute for fluffier rice.

How to Serve Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken and Rice)

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro sprigs or chopped green onions bring a fresh, herbal lift to the warm, rich flavors of the dish. A squeeze of lime juice just before serving adds brightness and balance.

Side Dishes

Complement your Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken and Rice) with simple sides like a crisp garden salad, fried plantains, or black beans with a hint of garlic for a truly satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in colorful bowls or straight from the pot family-style for a welcoming vibe. For a festive touch, add sliced avocado or a dollop of tangy sour cream to each serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

Freeze cooled Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken and Rice) in portions using freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 3 months, perfect for quick meals on busy days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, stirring occasionally for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of long-grain rice?

While long-grain rice is preferred for its fluffy texture, you can use other white rice varieties; just adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

What if I don’t have saffron?

Turmeric or paprika can be great substitutes to achieve similar color and mild earthy flavor without the cost of saffron.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the chicken first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours.

Is this dish spicy?

Traditionally, Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken and Rice) is mild, but you can easily add chili peppers or hot sauce to suit your spice tolerance.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Boneless chicken breasts or thighs work too but tend to cook faster and may not impart as much flavor as bone-in pieces.

Final Thoughts

Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken and Rice) is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of family, flavor, and tradition served on a single plate. With its simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and endless room for creativity, this recipe invites you to bring a bit of Latin American sunshine to your table any day of the week. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite comfort food!

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