Arroz Con Pollo – Chicken Recipe
If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful, and comforting meal that brings people together around the table, Arroz Con Pollo is the answer. This traditional Latin dish translates to “chicken with rice,” and it’s exactly that juicy, seasoned chicken simmered with tender rice, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful, with every bite bursting with flavor.
The best part? Arroz Con Pollo is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve for guests. Let’s dive into how you can make this beloved dish right at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything required to prepare Arroz Con Pollo:
- 3 lb. bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
- 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, seeded, ribs removed, and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (14-oz.) can diced tomatoes
- 1 bay leaf
- Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your Arroz Con Pollo masterpiece:
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, mix cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and cayenne. Rub this spice blend over the chicken for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add onion and bell peppers. Cook until softened (about 7 minutes). Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the tomato paste for rich depth.
Step 4: Toast the Rice
Add the rice to the skillet, stirring until it’s well coated and slightly toasted (about 3 minutes). This step adds a nutty flavor and helps the rice cook evenly.
Step 5: Simmer with Chicken
Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, and 1/2 tsp salt. Stir, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a boil, then nestle the chicken back into the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add extra broth or water if needed until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning with more salt if needed. Top with fresh cilantro before serving.
Tips and Variations for Arroz Con Pollo
- Swap the Protein: While chicken thighs and drumsticks are traditional, you can use chicken breast or even add shrimp for variety.
- Make it Spicier: Increase the cayenne or add chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
- Add More Veggies: Peas, carrots, or even corn make delicious additions to the rice.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Arroz Con Pollo isn’t just dinner it’s comfort food with deep cultural roots. It’s filling, flavorful, and balanced with protein, grains, and veggies all in one skillet. Plus, the aromatic blend of spices ensures every bite is savory, warm, and satisfying.
Conclusion
With its golden chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables, Arroz Con Pollo is a dish that belongs in every home cook’s rotation. It’s a wholesome, one-pot meal that delivers both comfort and flavor with minimal effort. Give it a try for your next family dinner, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro for that final burst of freshness.
Have you tried making Arroz Con Pollo before? Let me know in the comments how you made it your own!
