Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken With Rice)
Arroz Con Pollo features tender chicken simmered with flavorful tomatoes, red peppers, garlic, and rice, creating a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle the chicken lightly with salt.
- In a 12-inch skillet, brown the chicken in hot oil for about 15 minutes until browned.
- Remove the chicken from the pan.
- In the drippings remaining in the pan, cook the rice, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the rice is golden.
- Add water, undrained tomatoes, red pepper, bouillon granules, salt, and black pepper; bring to a boil and stir gently.
- Arrange the browned chicken on top of the rice mixture.
- Cover and simmer for 30 to 35 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a mix of garlic, salt, and your favorite herbs for a few hours before cooking. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the rice mixture. For a twist, substitute brown rice for white rice, but remember to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Arroz Con Pollo with a side of fresh avocado or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Pancit(From Philippines) for an exciting family feast. Garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for an added burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a covered dish in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Ensure the chicken is heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken With Rice) contains roughly 295 calories, with 3g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but be aware that brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Adjust the water to about 4 cups and simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, ensuring the chicken remains tender.
What can I serve alongside Arroz Con Pollo?
This dish is delicious on its own but pairs well with a side of black beans, fried plantains, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with warm tortillas to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare Arroz Con Pollo a day ahead. Just reheat gently before serving. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).