Description
This Cheesy Arroz Con Pollo is a hearty one-pot dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and gooey melted cheese. It’s a comforting, cheesy twist on the classic Arroz Con Pollo, making it perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 1 red or green bell pepper (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp turmeric (for color, optional)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Season and Cook the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Heat 2 tbsp of 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 from the skillet and set aside. - Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add 2 tbsp of olive oil. Sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. - Cook the Rice:
Add the rice to the pan and stir well to coat it with the veggies and oil. Add cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric. Toast the rice for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. - Simmer the Rice:
Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. - Add Chicken Back In:
Once the rice is cooked, add the cooked chicken pieces back into the pan. Add the frozen peas (if using) and gently mix everything together. - Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top of the rice and chicken. Cover the pan with a lid and let it sit for 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt. - Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For Extra Flavor: Squeeze fresh lime juice on top just before serving for a zesty twist.
- For Spice: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Meal Prep: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes