Easy Arroz con Pollo

Easy Arroz con Pollo Recipe - Traditional Spanish Dish

Region / culture: Spain | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Arroz con Pollo, which translates to "rice with chicken" in Spanish, is a classic Latin American dish that is loved for its flavorful combination of chicken, rice, and spices. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

History

Arroz con Pollo has roots in Spanish cuisine and has been adapted and modified in various Latin American countries over the years. It is a popular dish in countries such as Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Colombia, each adding their own unique twist to the recipe.

Ingredients

1.75 cups uncooked instant rice
6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
garlic salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
1 (14.5 oz (411 g)) can chicken broth
1 cup picante sauce
1 (8 oz (227 g)) can tomato sauce
0.5 cup chopped onion
0.5 cup chopped green bell pepper
0.5 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese

How to prepare

Spread the rice in a greased 13x9x2 inch baking dish.
Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with garlic salt and pepper; place it over the rice.
In a bowl, combine the broth, picante sauce, tomato sauce, onion, and green pepper; pour the mixture over the chicken.
Cover and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 55 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken juices run clear.
Sprinkle with cheese.
Bake, uncovered, for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes, corn, or black olives for extra flavor and texture.
Use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or queso fresco, for a unique twist.
Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken well with garlic salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the flavor.

- Use instant rice for a quicker cooking time, but feel free to use regular rice if preferred.

- Be sure to cover the dish while baking to ensure the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Arroz con Pollo with a side of black beans, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the Arroz con Pollo in the oven allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that the chicken is cooked through while the rice is perfectly tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe by using different vegetables, spices, or protein options to suit your taste preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Simply cover the dish with foil and bake when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Arroz con Pollo with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapenos, or a dollop of sour cream for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Arroz con Pollo with a side of plantains, a crisp green salad, or a refreshing agua fresca for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Arroz con Pollo recipe contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Arroz con Pollo recipe contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this Arroz con Pollo recipe contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this Arroz con Pollo recipe contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and may contain allergens. Please check for any specific allergens before consuming.

Summary

Arroz con Pollo is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Arroz con Pollo is a delicious and comforting dish that is easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy the flavors of Latin America with this flavorful and satisfying recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was during a trip to Puerto Rico many years ago, when I stumbled upon a small, family-run restaurant tucked away in the bustling streets of Old San Juan. The aroma of spices and sizzling chicken wafted through the air, drawing me in like a moth to a flame.

I had always been a lover of food, but there was something about the flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine that spoke to my soul. The rich, bold seasonings, the tender meats, the comforting rice dishes – it was like a symphony for my taste buds. And it was in that humble little restaurant that I first tasted the wonders of Arroz con Pollo.

The dish was simple yet elegant – tender pieces of chicken cooked in a savory tomato sauce, nestled amongst a bed of fluffy rice and vegetables. Each bite was a burst of flavor, a melody of spices that danced on my palate. I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

I approached the owner of the restaurant, a kind older woman with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. She welcomed me into her kitchen with open arms, eager to share her knowledge and passion for cooking. As we worked side by side, she taught me the secrets of Arroz con Pollo – the perfect balance of spices, the importance of sautéing the vegetables just right, the art of simmering the chicken to tender perfection.

I watched and learned, taking in every detail like a sponge. I asked questions, tasted samples, and observed with keen eyes as she worked her magic in the kitchen. And slowly but surely, I began to understand the alchemy behind this beloved dish.

After hours of cooking and chatting, the time came to taste the fruits of our labor. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, the colors of the dish vibrant and enticing. I scooped a spoonful of the Arroz con Pollo onto my plate, my heart racing with anticipation.

And then, I took my first bite.

It was like a revelation. The flavors exploded on my tongue, each ingredient singing in perfect harmony. The chicken was tender, the rice fluffy, the vegetables perfectly cooked. It was a symphony of flavors, a masterpiece of culinary artistry.

As I savored each bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen. I thanked the kind woman profusely for her guidance and generosity, promising to carry on the tradition of Arroz con Pollo with pride.

And so, over the years, I have perfected my own version of this beloved dish. I have made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of that special day in Puerto Rico, of the kind woman who shared her secrets with me, and of the love and passion that goes into every bite.

Arroz con Pollo has become more than just a recipe to me – it is a precious memory, a testament to the power of food to bring people together, to create joy and nourishment, to tell a story. And I am grateful every day for the gift of that special memory, of finding this recipe for the first time.