This traditional arroz con pollo recipe is a beloved Latin dish that combines tender chicken with flavorful rice and vegetables. It’s an easy arroz con pollo that is perfect for family dinners, bringing everyone together around the table.
The recipe is designed for one pot cooking, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights. With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, this homemade arroz con pollo is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Overview of Arroz con Pollo
Arroz con pollo is a cherished dish in many Latin households, celebrated for its comforting flavors and vibrant presentation. This traditional arroz con pollo recipe combines tender chicken with fluffy yellow rice, making it a staple for family dinners.
The dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, featuring colorful bell peppers and green peas that enhance its charm. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes, making it a favorite among both adults and children.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of homemade arroz con pollo lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Skinless chicken thighs or drumsticks serve as the star protein, simmering to perfection alongside long-grain rice.
Fresh vegetables, including bell peppers and peas, add a burst of color and nutrition. Spices like cumin and paprika infuse the dish with warmth, while a sprinkle of chopped cilantro on top provides a fresh finish.
Cooking Method
This easy arroz con pollo is designed for one pot cooking, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. The process begins with searing the chicken to achieve a golden crust, followed by sautéing the vegetables until they soften.
Next, the rice is added along with spices, allowing it to toast slightly before the chicken broth is poured in. This method ensures that the rice absorbs all the rich flavors as it cooks, creating a hearty meal that is both satisfying and fulfilling.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color. This dish is perfect for serving at family gatherings or casual dinners, bringing everyone together around the table.
Pair it with a refreshing drink to complement the meal, and enjoy the warm, inviting atmosphere that arroz con pollo creates. It’s a dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart.
Nutritional Benefits
Arroz con pollo is not just a delightful meal; it also offers nutritional benefits. Each serving provides a good balance of protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the rice, making it a well-rounded dish.
With the addition of vegetables, this dish contributes essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring that it is both tasty and nutritious. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a wholesome meal without compromising on flavor.
Conclusion: A Family Favorite
This traditional arroz con pollo recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and family traditions. Its ease of preparation and rich taste make it a beloved choice for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this one pot arroz con pollo is sure to impress and satisfy. Embrace the warmth and comfort that comes with each serving, and create lasting memories around the dinner table.
Easy One Pot Arroz con Pollo
This authentic arroz con pollo features succulent chicken pieces simmered with rice, bell peppers, peas, and spices, creating a comforting and hearty meal. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs or drumsticks, skinless
- 2 cups long-grain rice, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Rinse the rice and chop the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the pot. Sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Rice and Spices: Stir in the rice, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 2 minutes to toast the rice slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
- Add Peas: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped cilantro if desired, and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
