Discover the rich flavors of an authentic Mexican arroz con pollo recipe. This classic dish combines tender chicken with seasoned rice, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this arroz con pollo recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves Mexican cuisine.
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.
Additional Tips
- 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.
This authentic Mexican arroz con pollo recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this arroz con pollo recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the comforting taste of Mexico in every bite!
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