Arroz Con Pollo recipe
Arroz con Pollo is a vibrant one-pot classic that brings comforting flavors to your table with minimal effort. Tender, golden chicken pairs perfectly with aromatic rice, creating a dish that feels both homey and special.
Each bite delivers a balanced blend of spices, roasted vegetables, and rich tomato notes. The cumin, oregano, and garlic infuse the chicken, while the rice absorbs every bit of savory goodness, ensuring layers of flavor in every forkful.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe shines fresh or as leftovers. Easy to follow yet deeply satisfying, it transforms simple ingredients into a colorful, hearty meal that will quickly become a family favorite.
Arroz Con Pollo Ingredients
Chicken thighs and drumsticks – The heart of the dish, offering juicy, tender meat and a rich, savory flavor that infuses the rice as it cooks.
Long-grain rice – Acts as the canvas, absorbing all the aromatic spices, broth, and tomato essence for a perfectly flavorful base.
Bell peppers and yellow onion – Provide natural sweetness and texture, creating a vibrant foundation that balances the savory depth of the chicken.
Garlic and tomato paste – Elevate the dish with aromatic richness and concentrated umami, binding the flavors together in every bite.
Chicken broth – Adds depth and moisture, ensuring the rice cooks to a fluffy, flavorful perfection while carrying the essence of all ingredients.
Spices (cumin, oregano, cayenne, garlic powder) – Deliver warmth and subtle complexity, layering the dish with a fragrant, irresistible seasoning profile.
Fresh cilantro – A finishing touch that brightens the dish with fresh, herbaceous notes, making each serving pop visually and in taste.
Arroz Con Pollo: Recipe Tips, Serving Suggestions & FAQ
Recipe Tips
- Perfectly Crisp Chicken: Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure the skin crisps beautifully when seared. Searing at medium-high heat locks in juices, giving the meat a tender, flavorful interior. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain that golden finish.
- Layer Flavors Thoughtfully: Toasting the rice in the skillet before adding broth and tomatoes deepens its flavor and helps prevent clumping. Stir frequently to coat the grains evenly with the aromatic tomato and spice mixture for a richer, more cohesive dish.
- Customize Spice and Texture: Adjust cayenne and cumin to match your heat preference. For extra depth, consider adding a splash of white wine or a pinch of smoked paprika. Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking and ensure the rice absorbs every bit of flavor.
What to Serve with Arroz Con Pollo
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the chicken and rice. Its acidity balances the dish beautifully.
- Fried Plantains or Sweet Potatoes: Sweet, caramelized plantains or roasted sweet potatoes offer a hint of natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spiced chicken, enhancing both texture and flavor.
- Refried Beans or Black Beans: Creamy, seasoned beans make a hearty, protein-packed accompaniment. Their earthy flavor complements the aromatic rice and chicken while providing a classic Latin-inspired side to round out the meal.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?
Yes, but cooking times will be shorter. Boneless cuts may cook faster and release less flavor into the rice, so adjust simmering time and seasoning accordingly.
Q2: How do I prevent the rice from sticking?
Stir occasionally during simmering and maintain a gentle heat. If the rice absorbs liquid too quickly, add small amounts of broth or water to keep it moist.
Q3: Can this recipe be made in advance?
Absolutely! Arroz con Pollo tastes even better as leftovers, as the flavors continue to meld. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture.
Arroz Con Pollo
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, combine cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Rub this spice blend evenly over the chicken.
- Sear the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until each side develops a golden-brown crust, approximately 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Cook the onion and bell peppers, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 7 minutes. Add the garlic and continue cooking for 1 minute until fragrant, then incorporate the tomato paste, stirring to combine.
- Cook the Rice
- Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it thoroughly with the aromatics, and toast lightly for 3 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Return the chicken to the skillet, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, adding additional broth or water if necessary, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender, about 30 minutes.
