Arroz Con Pollo (Cheesy Chicken and Rice) – A Beginner’s Guide to a Classic Dish

Arroz con pollo, or “chicken with rice,” is a well-loved dish found in many Mexican, Tex-Mex, and Latin American restaurants. It is a comforting, hearty meal that combines seasoned chicken, flavorful rice, and a creamy cheese sauce. This dish is the perfect introduction for beginner cooks because it is simple, requires minimal ingredients, and does not rely on complicated cooking techniques.

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The first time I made arroz con pollo at home, I was surprised by how easy it was to create the same bold flavors I had enjoyed in restaurants. I had always assumed that getting that rich, deep taste required hours of preparation, but with a few key seasonings and the right cooking methods, it came together quickly. This recipe is designed to be approachable, with clear instructions that will guide you through each step. Whether you are new to cooking or just looking for a delicious and easy dinner option, this dish is an excellent choice.

In this guide, we will break down the ingredients, walk through the cooking process, and share helpful tips to ensure success. By the end, you will have a dish that is both satisfying and versatile, perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.

Why This Recipe is Great for Beginners

Many people shy away from cooking at home because they worry about getting the technique right or making mistakes. This arroz con pollo recipe is perfect for beginners for several reasons:

1. Simple Ingredients – Everything in this recipe is easy to find at any grocery store. There are no exotic or hard-to-source ingredients.
2. Minimal Cooking Skills Required – If you can chop an onion, stir rice, and cook chicken in a skillet, you can make this dish successfully.
3. One-Pan Rice Method – Cooking the rice directly with seasonings and tomato sauce infuses it with flavor while keeping the process straightforward.
4. Versatile and Forgiving – You can adjust seasonings to your taste, substitute ingredients as needed, and still achieve great results.

Ingredients and Alternatives

For the Rice:

• 2 cups long-grain white rice (Basmati works well)
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (Avocado oil recommended)
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 packet Sazon seasoning (for color and flavor)
• 1 tablespoon chicken-flavored bouillon (or 1 cup chicken broth instead of water)
• 16 ounces tomato sauce
• 4 cups water

Alternative Ingredients:

• Brown rice can be used, but cooking time will increase by 15-20 minutes.
• If you do not have Sazon seasoning, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and cumin can be used instead.
• For a milder flavor, substitute diced tomatoes for the tomato sauce.

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (thighs provide more flavor)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil (Avocado oil recommended)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 packet Sazon seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Alternative Ingredients:

• Beef strips can be used instead of chicken for a variation.
• If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the chili powder or use smoked paprika instead.

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 12 ounces evaporated milk
• 16 ounces Queso Blanco Velveeta cheese
• 7 ounces canned diced green chilies
• 8 ounces grated pepper jack cheese

Alternative Ingredients:

• Regular Velveeta cheese can be used instead of Queso Blanco.
• For a spicier sauce, use diced jalapeños instead of green chilies.
• If you prefer a more natural cheese sauce, use shredded Monterey Jack instead of Velveeta and melt it with a bit of cornstarch mixed into the milk.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Rice

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cooking oil and let it warm up.
2. Add the rice to the skillet and toast it, stirring constantly for 3-4 minutes. The rice should become slightly golden.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the Sazon seasoning, bouillon, and tomato sauce, mixing well to coat the rice.
5. Pour in the water, stirring briefly. Bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the rice simmer for 15 minutes. Do not stir while it cooks.
7. After 15 minutes, remove from heat and let it sit, still covered, for another 15 minutes.
8. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Slice the chicken into thin strips for even cooking.
2. Heat the butter and oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken strips and immediately sprinkle with the garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, Sazon seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 4-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. The pieces should be golden brown and no longer pink inside.
5. Remove the chicken from heat and set aside.

Preparing the Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, Queso Blanco Velveeta, diced green chilies, and pepper jack cheese.
2. Heat over medium, stirring constantly, until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
3. Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes to thicken.

Assembling the Dish

1. Start by plating a generous serving of rice.
2. Arrange the cooked chicken strips on top of the rice.
3. Drizzle as much cheese sauce as desired over the chicken and rice.
4. Optional: Serve with warm tortillas on the side for a more interactive meal.

Beginner Cooking Tips

• Avoid Soggy Rice: Do not stir the rice while it is cooking, as this can make it sticky and mushy.
• Prevent Dry Chicken: Since chicken breast cooks quickly, slice it thinly and keep an eye on the time to avoid overcooking. Thighs can be more forgiving if you want a juicier option.
• Keep the Cheese Sauce Smooth: Stir constantly while melting the cheese to prevent clumping. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of milk.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is filling on its own, but you can enhance it with:

• A side of refried beans for extra heartiness.
• A fresh salad with avocado and lime dressing for balance.
• Grilled vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini for added texture.
• Warm tortillas for making cheesy chicken and rice tacos.

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm in a pan over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

Conclusion: A Dish to Build Confidence in the Kitchen

Cooking at home should be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Arroz con pollo is a great way to build confidence in the kitchen while creating a meal that feels special. With its bold flavors, creamy cheese sauce, and simple preparation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

If you try this recipe, let us know how it turns out. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings, spice levels, or side dishes. Cooking is all about making food that fits your taste and lifestyle. Enjoy your homemade cheesy chicken and rice, and happy cooking!