Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Rice
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tsp ground turmeric (optional, for color)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Cheese Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice Base
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, diced bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
- Toast the Rice: Add the rice to the skillet and stir for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to toast lightly.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Stir in the chicken broth, turmeric, oregano, diced tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
- Return the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken pieces back into the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Cheese
- Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and let them heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken and rice. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish: Optional garnishes include chopped fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Plate: Serve the cheesy arroz con pollo warm with a side of tortillas or a simple green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 generous portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 34g