There’s something undeniably comforting about Arroz con Pollo, a dish that brings together tender chicken, aromatic rice, and a blend of Latin spices into a one-pan masterpiece. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this Arroz con Pollo recipe is sure to impress with its bold flavors and vibrant colors.
This dish has deep roots in Latin American and Spanish cuisine, with variations found in countries like Puerto Rico, Colombia, Peru, and Cuba. Each region puts its unique spin on the recipe, but the essence remains the same—juicy, seasoned chicken cooked alongside perfectly fluffy rice, infused with savory broth and vegetables.
The beauty of Arroz con Pollo lies in its versatility. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it an ideal dish for busy home cooks. The combination of spices, herbs, and aromatics results in a deeply satisfying meal that’s both hearty and nutritious.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through a foolproof method to achieve restaurant-quality Arroz con Pollo at home. You’ll learn the secrets to getting crispy golden-brown chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and a depth of flavor that makes this dish truly unforgettable.
Table of contents
Recipe Card
Arroz con Pollo
Cuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Medium6
servings15
minutes45
minutes450
kcalA flavorful and hearty Mexican arroz con pollo recipe featuring tender chicken and seasoned rice, perfect for family meals.
Ingredients
2 cups long-grain white rice
1.5 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in (optionally skinless)
1 large onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup diced tomatoes
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
- Stir in the rice and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Return the chicken to the pot, nestling it into the rice mixture.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a chopped jalapeño with the bell peppers.
- You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if preferred.
- This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes this Arroz con Pollo recipe stand out from the rest? Let’s break it down:
1. The Perfectly Seared Chicken
One of the biggest mistakes people make is not properly searing the chicken before simmering it with the rice. This recipe starts by browning the chicken in a hot pan, creating a flavorful crust that locks in juices. The crispy skin not only adds texture but also imparts a deep, rich flavor to the entire dish.
2. Well-Seasoned and Aromatic Rice
The rice is the heart of Arroz con Pollo, and getting it just right is key. This recipe uses long-grain rice, which absorbs the flavors beautifully without becoming mushy. By sautéing the rice with sofrito (a blend of onions, bell peppers, garlic, and tomatoes) before adding liquid, we ensure that every grain is infused with flavor.
3. Balanced Spices and Herbs
This recipe incorporates a well-balanced mix of Latin seasonings, including cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and a pinch of saffron (or annatto for color). These spices give the dish its signature taste—earthy, smoky, and slightly floral.
4. Customizable Ingredients
The beauty of Arroz con Pollo is that it’s incredibly flexible. You can make it with boneless, skinless chicken for a lighter version or use drumsticks and thighs for a more traditional approach. Vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers add sweetness and color, making the dish even more vibrant.
5. One-Pan Convenience
This is a true one-pot meal, which means less cleanup and maximum flavor. Cooking everything in the same pot allows the flavors to meld together harmoniously, creating a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours—even though it comes together in under an hour.
6. Family-Friendly and Meal Prep Approved
Since Arroz con Pollo is a well-balanced dish with protein, carbs, and veggies, it’s perfect for family dinners. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping or leftovers.
Would you like me to continue with Part 2: Pro Tips, Variants, and More?
Additional Tips for the best Arroz con Pollo Recipe
- Rice Texture: Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming too sticky.
- Chicken Options: Bone-in chicken thighs add more flavor, but you can use boneless thighs or breasts for convenience.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or corn for extra color and nutrition.
- Flavor Boost: Use homemade chicken broth for a richer taste.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of warm tortillas and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Herb Infusion: Add a bay leaf or a sprig of thyme to the pot while cooking for an extra layer of flavor. Remove before serving.
- Tomato Base: Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Rice Choice: For a more authentic texture, use medium-grain rice instead of long-grain. It absorbs flavors better and has a slightly sticky consistency.
- Acidity Balance: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving can brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing contrast to the rich dish.
- Cheese Topping: Sprinkle some grated queso fresco or crumbled cotija cheese on top before serving for a creamy, salty finish that complements the dish perfectly.
Variants of Arroz con Pollo
This classic dish has been adapted across Latin America, with different regions adding their unique touches. Here are some delicious variations you can try:
1. Puerto Rican Arroz con Pollo
Puerto Rico’s version of Arroz con Pollo features annatto oil (achiote) for a vibrant orange color and a distinct earthy flavor. It often includes green olives, capers, and pigeon peas (gandules), which add a briny, slightly sweet contrast.
2. Cuban Arroz con Pollo
Cuban-style Arroz con Pollo is made with beer or white wine instead of water or broth, giving the rice a slightly malty, rich flavor. The dish also typically includes saffron or turmeric, along with sweet peas and roasted red peppers.
3. Colombian Arroz con Pollo
In Colombia, this dish is often made with shredded chicken instead of bone-in pieces. The rice is cooked with a mix of vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers, and it’s commonly served with a side of fried plantains.
4. Mexican Arroz con Pollo
The Mexican version incorporates bold, smoky spices such as chipotle or ancho chili powder. It’s often cooked with tomato sauce and jalapeños, adding a slight kick. Some variations even include black beans for extra protein.
5. Peruvian Arroz con Pollo
Peruvian Arroz con Pollo has a unique twist—it’s made with cilantro-based rice, which gives it a deep green color and herbal aroma. The chicken is often marinated in beer or chicha (fermented corn drink) for extra depth of flavor.
6. Spanish Arroz con Pollo
Originating from Spain, this version is closest to paella. It features saffron, seafood broth, and chorizo, giving the dish a smoky, robust taste. Spanish Arroz con Pollo is typically cooked in a wide, shallow pan to create a crispy layer of rice at the bottom, known as socarrat.
FAQ
If you don’t have saffron, you can substitute it with turmeric for color and a mild flavor. While it won’t be exactly the same, it will still give the rice a vibrant yellow hue and a similar earthy note.
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in Arroz con Pollo. They are more flavorful and stay juicier than chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Mushy rice is usually caused by too much liquid or over-stirring during cooking. To fix this:
– Use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio (about 2 cups of liquid per 1 cup of rice).
– Avoid stirring once the liquid is added—this releases starch, making the rice sticky.
– Let the rice steam with the lid on after cooking to absorb any remaining moisture.
Yes! To make Arroz con Pollo in a slow cooker:
– Sear the chicken first for extra flavor.
– Add all ingredients except the rice and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
– Stir in the rice during the last 30–40 minutes of cooking to prevent it from overcooking.
Final Thoughts
Arroz con Pollo is a dish that perfectly balances flavor, texture, and tradition. Whether you’re cooking it for a cozy family dinner or serving it at a festive gathering, this one-pot meal delivers incredible taste with minimal effort. The combination of juicy, well-seasoned chicken, fluffy, aromatic rice, and bold Latin spices makes it a comforting and satisfying dish that never disappoints.
One of the best things about this Arroz con Pollo recipe is its versatility. You can adjust the ingredients to match your preferences, swap in different vegetables, or spice it up with chili peppers. Plus, it’s a great dish to make in advance, as the flavors deepen over time, making leftovers just as delicious as the first serving.
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love exploring more Latin-inspired dishes and comfort food classics. For a different take on chicken and rice, check out this Chicken and Saffron Rice Recipe. If you’re a fan of hearty, one-pot meals, this Fideo Recipe is another delicious option that highlights the rich flavors of Latin cuisine.
Looking for a satisfying side dish to serve with Arroz con Pollo? Try this Cheesy Smashed Potatoes Recipe for a creamy, crispy complement to your meal. And if you love adding a spicy twist to your dishes, this Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe is the perfect condiment to bring a fresh, smoky kick.
Cooking is all about exploring new flavors and making meals that bring people together. We hope this Arroz con Pollo recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen, filling your home with its enticing aroma and heartwarming taste. Give it a try, and let us know how it turns out in the comments!
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