Easy Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo, which translates to “rice with chicken” in Spanish, is a beloved dish in many Latin American and Mexican households. Its savory, flavorful combination of chicken, rice, and colorful vegetables makes it a satisfying and hearty meal. While the traditional recipe might involve a long cooking process, this easy version can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it an excellent choice for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a quick yet delicious dinner. The best part? This dish doesn’t skimp on flavor, thanks to the aromatic mix of spices and the creamy queso topping. Whether you’re cooking for family or having friends over for dinner, this Arroz con Pollo will surely become a staple in your meal rotation.

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If you’ve ever wanted to recreate a Mexican restaurant classic at home but were worried about the complexity or time it might take, this recipe is for you. It simplifies the process without compromising on taste. Plus, it’s a healthier option since it uses lean chicken breasts and features a good balance of vegetables. Whether you’re just starting your cooking journey or are an experienced chef looking for a simple and rewarding meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step instructions to bring this delicious Arroz con Pollo to life!

Ingredients and Preparation

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With a few basic ingredients, you’ll be able to create a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Below is a list of the ingredients, along with suggestions for substitutions if needed.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
• 1 cup sliced green bell peppers
• 1 cup sliced yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable, canola, or olive oil)
• 1 pound thinly sliced boneless, skinless chicken breasts (you can also use chicken tenders)
• ½ cup melted white queso sauce (divided use)
• 4-ounce can green chiles
• 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce
• 1.25-ounce packet fajita seasoning
• 2 packets Spanish-style rice (or homemade Spanish rice, see variations below)
• 1-2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Preparation Notes

• The bell peppers and onions should be sliced evenly for uniform cooking.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add more chipotle sauce or include some extra jalapeños when cooking the vegetables.
• For a more customized version of the dish, you can opt for beef, turkey, or chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. These substitutions may change the flavor profile slightly but will still result in a delicious meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe is simple and straightforward, making it perfect for beginner cooks. The instructions are broken down into clear, easy-to-follow steps to help you through the process. Let’s get started!

1. Sauté the Vegetables
   In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced red bell peppers, green bell peppers, and yellow onion. Sauté for about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers and onions are soft and slightly caramelized. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, which will complement the savory chicken and spices.
2. Cook the Chicken
   Add the thinly sliced boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the skillet with the cooked vegetables. Sauté for 4-7 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear. Make sure to stir occasionally to avoid burning. The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside.
3. Add the Flavorings
   Once the chicken is fully cooked, add ⅛ cup of the melted white queso sauce, the 4-ounce can of green chiles, 2 tablespoons of chipotle sauce, and the fajita seasoning packet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the chicken is coated with the sauce and seasoning mixture. Heat everything together for another 2-3 minutes until the flavors meld and the sauce is warm.
4. Prepare the Rice
   While the chicken and vegetable mixture is cooking, prepare the Spanish rice according to the package instructions. Most pre-packaged rice options require you to bring water to a boil, then simmer until the rice is cooked through. If you’re using homemade Spanish rice, you can sauté the rice in oil with garlic and onion before adding broth and cooking it to perfection.
5. Assemble the Dish
   Once the rice is ready, serve the chicken and vegetable mixture over the rice. Drizzle the remaining melted queso sauce over the top, and garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh, herby finish. The creamy queso sauce adds a rich layer of flavor that complements the tender chicken and spicy chipotle seasoning.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Cooking Arroz con Pollo might seem daunting at first, but with these helpful tips, you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare this dish:

• How to tell if chicken is cooked through: When cooking chicken, always check to make sure the juices run clear, not pink, when pierced with a fork. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) if you’re using a meat thermometer.
• Substituting ingredients: If you don’t have fajita seasoning, you can make your own by mixing chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. If you’re out of chipotle sauce, a little bit of smoked paprika can provide a similar smoky flavor.
• Troubleshooting overcooked veggies: If you accidentally overcook the vegetables and they become too soft or mushy, don’t worry. You can easily salvage them by adding a touch of acidity (such as lime juice) or a pinch of salt to enhance their flavor.
• Prepping efficiently: To save time, chop the vegetables and slice the chicken before you start cooking. You can even pre-melt the queso sauce to avoid delays when adding it to the dish. Organizing your ingredients ahead of time can make the cooking process feel less stressful.
• Cooking rice: If you’re not using pre-packaged Spanish rice, homemade rice is easy to prepare. Simply sauté the rice in a little oil with onions and garlic, then add chicken broth (or water and a bouillon cube) for flavor. Allow it to simmer until the rice is cooked through and fluffy.

Serving Suggestions

Arroz con Pollo is a complete meal on its own, thanks to the rice, chicken, and vegetables. However, you can elevate the dish even further with these serving suggestions:

• Side Dishes: A side of fresh guacamole and tortilla chips will add a nice crunch and coolness to balance out the heat of the chipotle sauce. You could also serve a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to add a refreshing element to the meal.
• Additional Toppings: If you love a little extra creaminess, you can add a dollop of sour cream or some crumbled queso fresco on top of the dish. A few fresh lime wedges on the side can provide a zesty finish that complements the flavors of the Arroz con Pollo.
• Vegetarian Option: To make a vegetarian version of this dish, simply swap out the chicken for plant-based proteins, such as tofu, tempeh, or roasted vegetables. You can use the same seasoning and sauces to maintain the flavor profile.

Engagement Features

Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to make it your own and share your experience with others! Cooking is all about having fun in the kitchen, experimenting with flavors, and enjoying the process. I’d love to hear about your take on this easy Arroz con Pollo. Did you try any ingredient substitutions? How did the dish turn out? Share your tips, feedback, and any variations you made in the comments section below.

If you enjoyed making this recipe, don’t forget to snap a picture and share it on social media. Tag us or leave a review to let others know how delicious this dish turned out. Whether you’re cooking for your family, your friends, or just treating yourself to a tasty meal, this easy Arroz con Pollo is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!