Arroz Con Pollo Nuevo Mexicano(Chicken With Rice, New Mexican Style)
A flavorful New Mexican-style chicken and rice dish infused with saffron, cumin, and beer, perfect for hearty family dinners and those who enjoy bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 1/2 cup of olive oil in a skillet and brown the chicken pieces on all sides.
- Drain the chicken and set aside.
- Add the remaining oil to the skillet and add the uncooked rice.
- Cook, stirring, until the rice is transparent and golden.
- Stir in the minced garlic.
- Place the browned chicken on top of the rice.
- Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and beer.
- Stir in ground cumin, saffron, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the cooked peas and reheat before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices and beer for a few hours before cooking. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute half of the olive oil with chicken broth. Adding a squeeze of lime before serving can elevate the dish. For a twist, consider incorporating some chopped green chilies for additional heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Arroz Con Pollo Nuevo Mexicano with warm tortillas on the side for a complete meal. A fresh green salad or some Mexican Vegetable Soup can complement the dish beautifully. For a hearty addition, serve with Stuffed Jalapenos or a side of Spicy Rice to enhance the flavors. Pair with a light beer or a crisp white wine for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent sticking. Cover until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to a month; just ensure it's completely cooled before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Arroz Con Pollo Nuevo Mexicano(Chicken With Rice, New Mexican Style) contains roughly 221 calories, with 10g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (152% of the Daily Value), calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1554mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
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, brown rice can be used, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so increase the simmering time and add an extra half cup of liquid to ensure it's tender and absorbs the flavors.
What can I substitute for saffron?
If saffron is unavailable, you can use turmeric as a substitute. While it won't replicate the exact flavor, it will give a similar color and earthy taste. Use about half the amount since turmeric has a stronger flavor than saffron.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or serrano peppers while sautéing the garlic. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or use a spicy beer for added flavor. Adjust to your taste for the perfect level of spice.
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).