Arroz con Pollo, or chicken with rice, is a classic Latin American dish that is both hearty and flavorful. This traditional recipe is beloved in many countries, but today, we’ll focus on a Colombian version. Our step-by-step guide will help you create a delicious Arroz con Pollo that your family and friends will love.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this Colombian Arroz con Pollo recipe:

• 2 cups of long-grain rice
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 1 lb of chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of peas
• 1 cup of carrots, diced
• 1 cup of corn kernels
• 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Preparing the Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly for the best flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Cooking the Vegetables

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Then, add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables until they are soft and fragrant, which should take about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Carrots and Corn

Next, add the diced carrots and corn kernels to the pot. Continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combining the Ingredients

Step 5: Add the Rice

Pour the rice into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat the rice with the oil and vegetable mixture. This step is crucial for ensuring the rice absorbs all the flavors.

Step 6: Add the Broth and Tomatoes

Add the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice) to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

Step 7: Return the Chicken to the Pot

Place the browned chicken pieces back into the pot. Make sure they are evenly distributed among the rice and vegetables.

Cooking the Arroz con Pollo

Step 8: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time, as it will release the steam needed to cook the rice properly.

Step 9: Add Peas

After 20 minutes, add the peas to the pot. Stir gently and cover again. Let the dish cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.

Final Touches

Step 10: Fluff the Rice

Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and let the pot sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Then, remove the lid and use a fork to fluff the rice gently.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

Garnish your Arroz con Pollo with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Use Different Vegetables

Feel free to customize your Arroz con Pollo by adding or substituting different vegetables. Some popular options include green beans, red peppers, or even olives for an extra burst of flavor.

Make It Spicy

If you like your food with a bit of heat, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dish.

Use Different Cuts of Chicken

While this recipe calls for chicken thighs or breasts, you can also use drumsticks or even a whole chicken cut into pieces. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Arroz con Pollo is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a medley of vegetables makes this dish both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup!

Conclusion

Arroz con Pollo is a versatile and delicious dish that can easily become a staple in your household. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to create a Colombian-style Arroz con Pollo that’s sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a hearty meal with your loved ones.

Happy cooking!