Arroz con Pollo: A Classic Latin American Dish
Arroz con Pollo, which translates to “rice with chicken,” is a classic Latin American dish that’s loved for its comforting and flavorful qualities. It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. This recipe is made with tender chicken, fragrant rice, and a blend of spices that make it a standout dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs. bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, add the diced bell peppers and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables. Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat the grains with the spices and vegetables.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a simmer and then nestle the chicken thighs back into the pot, skin-side up. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. Remove the pot from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Sprinkle the frozen peas over the top of the rice and chicken. Cover the pot and let it sit for an additional 5 minutes to allow the peas to heat through.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and serve the Arroz con Pollo hot.
This recipe for Arroz con Pollo is perfect for those looking for a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s easy to make, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd. The tender chicken and fragrant rice are sure to make this dish a favorite among your friends and family. Enjoy!