Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican

Imagine the scent of sautéed sofrito dancing through your kitchen, the sizzle of golden chicken browning in oil, and the rich, hearty aroma of seasoned rice bubbling in broth. That, my friend, is the magic of the Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican. It’s the kind of dish that draws family to the table, even before the plates hit it.

Comforting, colorful, and packed with flavor, Puerto Rican Arroz con Pollo is one of those easy recipe ideas that feels gourmet but comes together with simple ingredients. Whether you’re looking for quick meal ideas, planning a Sunday dinner, or simply craving something deeply satisfying, this dish ticks all the boxes.

As a native island favorite, this version of chicken and rice sets itself apart with bold seasonings, fresh ingredients for cooking, and that beautiful signature color from annatto or sazón. You’ll find this dish not just delicious, but deeply nostalgic like a warm hug in a bowl. So grab your caldero (traditional cooking pot), and let’s get started.

What is Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican?

Let’s break it down: “Arroz” means rice, “Pollo” means chicken, and “con” is just Spanish for “with.” So yes, it’s literally chicken with rice. But doesn’t that undersell the magic a little?

This isn’t just your average one-pot dinner. This is a Caribbean classic passed down from generation to generation. You might ask, “How can something so simple taste so incredible?” That’s the charm of Puerto Rican cuisinevit knows how to elevate the everyday.

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” In Puerto Rico, this dish is living proof. Whether you’re trying to impress a dinner guest or just want an unforgettable home-cooked meal, Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican style is a go-to.

Give it a try you might just start a new family tradition. After all, popular Puerto Rican recipes like this are made to be shared.

Why You’ll Love This Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican

Main Highlights

This is not your typical chicken and rice dish. The flavor depth, thanks to homemade sofrito, is unmatched. Each spoonful delivers juicy chicken, tender grains infused with savory broth, and bursts of veggies and spices. It’s hearty enough for a main course, yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Plus, this quick and easy recipe doesn’t require fancy tools or hard-to-find ingredients. You’ll be working with healthy ingredients like bell peppers, garlic, tomatoes, and olive oil, all naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients.

Cost-Saving Benefits

Instead of ordering takeout or dining out, making Arroz Con Pollo at home can seriously trim your food budget. It’s a cost-effective family meal that stretches proteins and pantry staples to feed a crowd.

Forget the overpriced “authentic” restaurant dishes this budget-friendly dinner can feed 4–6 people for the cost of one entrée at a restaurant.

Flavorful Toppings and Customizations

This recipe is super versatile! Top it with homemade toppings like sliced avocado, pickled onions, or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness. Add a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.

You can also mix in olives, capers, or even peas for a tangy, briny flavor burst perfect delicious seasoning ideas to tweak the dish to your taste.

How to Make Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican

Quick Overview

Here’s the exciting part: this dish is rich in flavor, but the steps are straightforward. With a bit of chopping and a good simmer, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under an hour.

Perfect for simple preparation, family-friendly meals, and quick and easy dinner recipes.

Key Ingredients

Ingredient List

• 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks (skin-on, bone-in preferred)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup sofrito (homemade or store-bought)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon adobo seasoning
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• 1½ cups medium-grain rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup chopped olives (optional)
• 1 packet sazón with annatto

These are your basic cooking ingredients, all of which can be found at a regular grocery store. Many are essential Puerto Rican pantry staples.

Visual Ingredients Image

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken with adobo, oregano, and pepper. In a large caldero or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high and sear the chicken until golden brown on all sides (about 5–7 minutes).

Tip: Browning first locks in moisture and builds flavor one of the top easy steps for making savory dishes!

Step 2: Sauté Sofrito and Spices

Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pot, add sofrito, tomato sauce, sazón, and diced peppers. Cook for 3–4 minutes until aromatic.

This builds the flavor base and is one of the core simple cooking tips in Puerto Rican cuisine.

Step 3: Add Rice and Broth

Stir in rice and toss to coat in the flavorful base. Pour in chicken broth, return the chicken to the pot, and bring to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 25–30 minutes or until rice is fully tender and broth absorbed. Add peas and olives in the final 5 minutes. Fluff before serving.

Pro tip: Keep the lid on to trap steam for perfect rice texture one of the most common quick recipe steps often overlooked.

What to Serve With Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican

Pair this dish with fried sweet plantains (maduros), a side salad with lime vinaigrette, or a chilled glass of refreshing fruit punch. Other great pairings include garlic tostones, Puerto Rican avocado salad, or a tangy mojito for a festive touch.

Great for those looking for best dinner pairings or family meal ideas with Latin flavor.

Top Tips for Perfecting Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican

Ingredient Substitutions

• No sofrito? Blend onions, garlic, cilantro, and peppers for a quick substitute.
• No sazón? Use a mix of cumin, coriander, and annatto powder.
• Want it vegetarian? Replace chicken with chickpeas and use veggie broth.

These healthy ingredient swaps are ideal for anyone watching their intake or trying new diets.

Timing Adjustments

If using brown rice, increase the cook time by 10–15 minutes and check liquid levels. For boneless chicken, reduce simmer time slightly to avoid drying out.

These are key for adjusting cook time and achieving perfect texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Lifting the lid too often—this releases steam and can result in undercooked rice.
• Skipping the browning step—this reduces depth of flavor.
• Using long-grain rice—it tends to get too mushy.

These common cooking errors can make or break the final dish, so avoid them for best results.

Storing and Reheating Tips

How to Store

Let leftovers cool fully before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This ensures food safety and maintains texture classic food storage tips to keep in mind.

How to Reheat

Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to rehydrate the rice. Or microwave covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

Great advice for anyone interested in reheating meals while preserving texture and flavor.

Health Benefits of Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican

Nutritional Value Table

This nutritional value breakdown highlights the wholesome quality of each component.

Why These Ingredients Are Good for You

• Chicken: High in protein and iron for energy and muscle repair.
• Rice: A steady source of carbs for fuel.
• Bell Peppers: Rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C.
• Tomato Sauce: Offers lycopene for heart health.
• Olive Oil: Supports heart health with monounsaturated fats.

Each element plays a role in making this a healthy homemade meal perfect for all ages.

Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican From DelishDish!

Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican

This traditional Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican brings together seasoned chicken, sofrito, and medium-grain rice in one rich, flavorful pot. Simmered to perfection with bold spices and colorful vegetables, this dish is perfect for both casual weeknight meals and festive gatherings. It’s a quick meal idea, easy to prepare, and packed with healthy ingredients like bell peppers and olive oil. Best of all, it’s a budget-friendly dinner the whole family will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 11 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 41 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• Main Ingredients:
• 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks bone-in, skin-on
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup sofrito homemade or store-bought
• 1 packet sazón with annatto
• 1 tsp adobo seasoning
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• 1½ cups medium-grain rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional Add-Ins:
• 1 bell pepper diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• ¼ cup chopped green olives
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges to serve

Equipment

• Large caldero or heavy-bottomed pot (Dutch oven works)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Medium mixing bowl
• Lid for pot

Method

 

1. Season chicken with adobo, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Sear chicken in olive oil until browned; remove and set aside.
3. Sauté sofrito, tomato sauce, sazón, and bell pepper in the same pot.
4. Stir in rice, then add chicken broth and return chicken to the pot.
5. Simmer covered on low heat for 25–30 minutes, until rice is tender.
6. Add peas and olives in the last 5 minutes (optional).
7. Fluff rice, garnish with cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.
   

Notes

Rice Tip: Use medium-grain rice for the best texture. Long grain may become mushy.

Sofrito: Homemade sofrito adds authenticity, but jarred works in a pinch.

Color Boost: If sazón with annatto isn’t available, a pinch of turmeric or paprika adds color.

Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sofrito mixture.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to rehydrate.

Serving Ideas: Pair with maduros (sweet plantains), a fresh green salad, or tostones.

Conclusion

The Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican is more than just a recipe it’s a cultural treasure, a celebration on a plate, and an invitation to explore bold, nourishing flavors. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned baking enthusiast (yes, this dish is cooked, not baked, but we see you!), this dish will impress.

Share your experience in the comments, tag us in your kitchen photos, and check out our related posts for more Latin-inspired easy meal ideas. Because food is better when shared, especially something this tasty.

FAQs: Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican

Frequently Asked Questions about Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican

Share Your Twist! 🍽️

Tried this Arroz Con Pollo Recipe Puerto Rican and added your own spin? Maybe you tossed in some spicy peppers, swapped the peas for corn, or cooked it in a Dutch oven? We’d love to hear how you made it uniquely yours!

Leave a comment below and let us know your delicious twist. Share your version on Instagram and tag us you might just get featured in our next recipe roundup! 🌟

Let’s keep the Puerto Rican flavor love going one plate at a time! 🇵🇷💛

References :

Puerto Rican Arroz con Pollo