Last Updated on September 14, 2023 by My Back Kitchen
When it comes to Mexican cuisine, few dishes can rival the comforting and satisfying nature of arroz con pollo. This beloved one-pot meal combines tender chicken, aromatic rice, and an array of vibrant spices, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. In this blog post, we will delve into the origins, ingredients, and preparation of Mexican arroz con pollo, uncovering the secrets behind this timeless culinary masterpiece.
Arroz con pollo, which translates to “rice with chicken,” is a dish deeply rooted in Mexican culinary traditions. While variations of this dish exist in various Latin American countries, each region adds its own unique touch. In Mexico, arroz con pollo is a beloved family favorite, often prepared for gatherings, celebrations, or as a hearty weeknight meal that brings loved ones together.
Chicken: The star of the dish, chicken adds tenderness and protein to arroz con pollo. Traditionally, bone-in chicken pieces, such as thighs and drumsticks, are used, as they impart a richer flavor to the dish. However, boneless chicken can also be used for convenience.
Aromatic Spices: The flavors of arroz con pollo are enhanced by a blend of spices that give the dish its distinctive taste. Common spices include bay leaf, black pepper and garlic powder. These spices infuse the chicken and rice with a delightful warmth and complexity.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is the preferred choice for arroz con pollo, as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well. The rice serves as a canvas to soak up the aromatic broth and tender chicken, resulting in a harmonious medley of flavors.
Colorful Vegetables: Ingredients such as onions, tomatoes, and peas not only add vibrant colors but also contribute to the overall flavor profile. These vegetables lend a pleasant sweetness and texture to the dish, making each bite a delightful experience.
Chicken Broth: The key to achieving depth of flavor lies in the broth. Chicken broth acts as the foundation of the dish, infusing the rice and chicken with its savory essence. Homemade broth or store-bought options work equally well.
Preparation and Cooking: Searing the Chicken: Begin by browning the chicken pieces in a large pot or skillet with a little oil. This step adds flavor and helps develop a beautiful golden color on the chicken.
Mexican arroz con pollo is a culinary gem that exemplifies the heart and soul of traditional Mexican cuisine. The tender chicken, fragrant rice, and aromatic spices create a symphony of flavors that is sure to empress. Serve with warm tortillas and sliced avocados. Enjoy!
-MBK
Mexican Arroz con Pollo (Chicken with Rice)
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken cut into pieces
- 1 stick butter
- 1 medium onion quartered
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 2 large tomatoes blended
- 1 large jalapeno pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- dash garlic salt
Instructions
- Heat a 15" skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter. Once butter is melted add jalapeno pepper and onion.
- Using paper towels, pat chicken to remove excess moisture. Season both sides of chicken pieces with salt, pepper and garlic salt.
- Place dark meat, skin side down in hot skillet and cook for 5 minutes. Add white meat, skin side down and continue to cook all chicken pieces until golden brown. Turn chicken and continue to cook until browned on all sides. All chicken pieces should be skin side up before proceeding to next step.
- Add rice, blended tomato and boiling water. Taste the liquid and correct seasonings adding more salt if needed. Add bay leaf and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to low. Continue to cook 15 – 20 minutes until rice is cooked through and most of the liquid has evaporated. Do not open until the end of cooking time. If the rice is ready. Turn heat off and leave covered and undisturbed for 10 minutes.
- Serve with buttered peas and toasted french bread. Alternatively, serve with warm corn tortillas!
I’ve been looking for an authentic Arroz con Pollo recipe for a long time. Just made this and it came out perfect! Thanks for posting it!