Arroz con Pollo (Colombian Chicken and Rice) Recipe

Arroz con Pollo is a beloved Colombian dish featuring flavorful yellow rice with chicken, peas, carrots, and red bell peppers. It is often garnished with fresh cilantro and served with fried plantains and avocado slices. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups long-grain rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 500g chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 large carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
• 2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
   • In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
   • Add the diced carrot and continue to cook for a few minutes.
3. Cook the Rice:
   • Add the rice to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables.
   • Add the ground cumin, turmeric, and paprika, and stir to coat the rice with the spices.
   • Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
4. Combine and Cook:
   • After 15 minutes, add the browned chicken pieces back to the pot along with the frozen peas.
   • Stir to combine, then cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Prepare the Plantains:
   • While the rice is cooking, heat some oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
   • Fry the sliced plantains until they are golden brown and caramelized on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve:
   • Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro.
   • Serve the Arroz con Pollo with a side of fried plantains and avocado slices.

Enjoy your Arroz con Pollo, a flavorful and comforting Colombian dish that’s perfect for any meal!