Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with the vibrant flavors of Mexico! This "Arroz con Pollo" recipe, featuring tender chicken and fluffy rice, is not just a meal; it's a celebration of taste that will transport your senses straight to the heart of a Mexican fiesta. With its rich combination of spices, fresh ingredients, and the creamy goodness of queso fresco, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this easy-to-follow recipe will have you serving up a delicious, hearty dish in just one hour. So, grab your apron and let's dive into the world of Mexican cuisine!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rice
- 1 lb chicken thighs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup queso fresco
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Dice chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes. Chop onion, mince garlic, and dice bell pepper. Measure out all spices and have chicken broth ready.
- Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and cumin. Set aside to marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature to enhance flavor absorption.
- Heat large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and brown chicken pieces until golden, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and bell pepper until softened, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add rice and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and cover.
- Return browned chicken to the skillet, nestling pieces into rice mixture. Simmer covered for 25-30 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco over top before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot directly from skillet.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the seasoned chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes. This simple step enhances the flavor and ensures every bite is bursting with deliciousness.
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Skillet: A large skillet or Dutch oven helps distribute heat evenly, which is essential for browning the chicken and cooking the rice perfectly.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time when browning the chicken. This step adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Toast the Rice: Toasting the rice for a couple of minutes before adding the liquids helps to enhance its nutty flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Simmer Gently: Once you add the broth and tomatoes, bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing the heat. A slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and makes for a more cohesive dish.
- Garnish for Freshness: Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chopped green onions just before serving for a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful Arroz con Pollo recipe!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 120mg
