Delicious Arroz con Pollo: A Flavorful Chicken and Rice Dish
Arroz con Pollo is a classic Latin American dish that brings together the comforting goodness of chicken and rice, infused with aromatic spices and vegetables. This one-pot meal is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering a savory, hearty, and satisfying experience with every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds of chicken thighs (bone-in, skin on)
- 1 ½ cups of long-grain rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of tomato sauce
- ½ cup of peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- ½ teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Set aside.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken thighs to the pot, skin-side down, and brown them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the skin is crispy and golden. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the rice, making sure it’s well coated with the oil and vegetables. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add the tomato sauce, chicken broth, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Return the chicken thighs to the pot, placing them on top of the rice mixture. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add the peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes.
- Check for seasoning and adjust if necessary.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Enjoy your delightful Arroz con Pollo with its vibrant flavors and comforting textures!