Arroz con Pollo, traditionally a comforting dish of chicken and rice, takes a cheesy twist in this version. The combination of tender chicken, seasoned rice, and melted cheese creates an irresistibly delicious, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or any gathering. This Cheesy Arroz Con Pollo recipe brings together classic flavors, like cumin, paprika, and tomato sauce, with gooey cheddar and mozzarella cheeses that melt beautifully on top of the rice. It’s a great option for anyone craving comfort food with a flavorful twist. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or make a weeknight meal easy and satisfying, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Arroz con Pollo is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together everything you love about the classic dish—tender, juicy chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and the rich, comforting flavor of melted cheese. The combination of cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric adds depth and warmth to the dish, while the gooey, cheesy topping brings it all together. It’s easy to make in just one pot, reducing the mess and making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Ground cumin
Salt and black pepper
Olive oil

For the Rice:

Long-grain white rice
Olive oil
Small onion, chopped
Bell pepper, chopped
Garlic cloves, minced
Ground cumin
Smoked paprika
Turmeric (optional)
Chicken broth
Tomato sauce
Frozen peas (optional)

For the Cheesy Topping:

Shredded cheddar cheese
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)

Variations

Spicy Twist:

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables. This will give the dish a spicy kick that contrasts wonderfully with the cheesy topping.

Vegetables:

If you’d like to add more vegetables, consider incorporating corn, diced carrots, or zucchini to the rice mixture. These additions will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish while keeping it colorful and nutritious.

Cheese Alternatives:

You can switch out the cheddar and mozzarella cheese for other varieties such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. For a creamier texture, consider adding a few tablespoons of cream cheese when mixing the rice and chicken.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Toss the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add more olive oil and sauté the chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the pan and stir well to coat it with the oil and vegetables. Add ground cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric (if using), and toast the rice for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Simmer the Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Step 5: Add Chicken Back In

Once the rice is cooked, return the cooked chicken pieces to the pan. Add frozen peas (if desired), and gently stir to combine.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top of the chicken and rice mixture. Cover the pan with a lid and let it sit for 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese has melted, garnish the dish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Even Cooking: To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, try to cut the chicken pieces into similar-sized chunks.
Rice Texture: If you prefer your rice a little firmer, check the rice at the 15-minute mark and reduce the cooking time accordingly.
Flavor Depth: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving.

How to Serve

This Cheesy Arroz con Pollo can be served as a hearty main dish on its own or paired with a simple side salad for added freshness. The rice and chicken can be enjoyed directly from the pan for a casual meal, or plated and garnished for a more elegant presentation. Serve with lime wedges on the side to add a zesty contrast to the creamy cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Make sure the dish is fully cooled before transferring it to an airtight freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the oven or microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, add a little chicken broth to the pan and heat over medium-low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through. The cheese may need a few extra minutes to melt back into the rice.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook, and you may need to add a bit more liquid.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just wait to add the cheese until you’re reheating it.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the chicken and substitute it with extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

4. Is it necessary to use frozen peas?

Frozen peas are optional, but they add a nice pop of color and a sweet flavor that complements the rice.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses.

6. What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?

A large skillet with a lid will work just as well for this recipe. You just need a pan that can accommodate both the rice and chicken.

7. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the vegetables to increase the heat level.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe. Just make sure your pan is large enough to accommodate the increased ingredients and that the cooking time is adjusted accordingly.

9. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken requires more time to cook through.

10. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add carrots, corn, or peas for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Cheesy Arroz con Pollo is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that brings together flavorful chicken, tender rice, and a melt-in-your-mouth cheese topping. Perfect for family dinners, this one-pot meal will become a staple in your recipe collection. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy this delicious dish any night of the week. Whether you make it ahead of time or prepare it fresh, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.