Name: One Pan Crispy Arroz Con Pollo Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 5
Ingredients: 5 chicken thighs; salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 Large Onion; 6 oz short cut bacon; 3 garlic cloves; 2 tsp sweet paprika; ½ tsp saffron threads; 2 ripened tomatoes; 1 cup fire roasted peppers in garlic; 1½ cups chicken broth; ½ cup dry white wine; 1½ cups Long-Grain White Rice; ¾ cup frozen peas; fresh flat-leaf parsley

Enjoy a flavorful family feast with this delicious and hearty dish. This One Pan Crispy Arroz Con Pollo Recipe combines the savory goodness of chicken, the unique flavor of saffron, and the satisfying texture of perfectly cooked rice. This meal is perfect for any occasion, being delightfully crisp and golden on top, and wonderfully moist and juicy underneath. Prepared in one pan, this dish not only cuts down on washing up, it also beautifully melds the flavors together into an unforgettable dining experience.

Photos of One Pan Crispy Arroz Con Pollo Recipe

Saffron threads and fire roasted peppers in garlic are not usually found in the everyday pantry. When you head to the supermarket, make sure to find these two ingredients. Saffron threads are a unique spice derived from a flower known as saffron crocus, lending a distinct flavor and color to dishes. Fire roasted peppers in garlic are usually jarred and can be found in the preserved vegetables aisle. They add a smoky and spicy depth to the dish.

Ingredients for the One Pan Crispy Arroz Con Pollo

Chicken thighs: This is the main protein for this dish. The thighs are generally juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Used for seasoning the chicken and the overall dish.

Garlic powder: Adds a depth of flavor. It's a handy ingredient to have as it has a longer shelf life than fresh garlic.

Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken thighs and frying the onions and bacon.

Onion: Adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.

Bacon: Gives a smoky flavor, which complements the chicken well.

Garlic cloves: Intensifies and enriches the flavor profile of the dish.

Sweet paprika: This spice gives a sweet and pungent flavor and vibrant color to the dish.

Saffron threads: Saffron threads give the dish a unique flavor and a bright yellow color.

Tomatoes: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor, which nicely balances the savory elements of the dish.

Fire roasted peppers in garlic: Adds a smoky and spicy depth to the dish.

Chicken broth: Used as a base for the rice, giving it extra flavor.

Dry white wine: Adds an acidic element to balance the flavors.

Long-grain white rice: Absorbs all the flavors in the pan and becomes beautifully tender.

Frozen peas: Gives a pop of color and sweetness to the dish.

Fresh flat-leaf parsley: Used for garnishing, providing a fresh and bright contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

One reader, Hestia Root says:

This one-pan crispy arroz con pollo recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and the chicken is perfectly crispy. The combination of saffron, paprika, and garlic creates a mouthwatering aroma. The dish is easy to make and the clean-up is a breeze. It's a definite winner for family dinners!

Hestia Root

How To Make One Pan Crispy Arroz Con Pollo

Make a delectable plate of arroz con pollo for dinner tonight! It comes with crispy chicken and seasoned rice for a belly-filling meal.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

5chicken thighsbone in and optional skin on
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1tspgarlic powder
1tbspolive oil
1large onionchopped
6ozshort cut baconor smoked ham, trimmed of all fat, chopped
3garlic clovesminced
2tspsweet paprika
½tspsaffron threadscrushed or ¾ tsp imitation saffron powder
2ripened tomatoesvine, diced or 1 small can diced tomatoes with juice
1cupfire roasted peppers in garlicjarred, Piquillo, cut into strips
1½cupschicken broth
½cupdry white wine
1½cupslong-grain white riceuncooked
¾cupfrozen peasnot thawed
fresh flat-leaf parsleychopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat an oven to 200 degrees C | 390 degrees F.
Wash and pat chicken dry with a paper towel.
Season with salt, pepper and garlic powder.
Heat a small amount oil in a 10 to 12-inch cast iron pan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
Sear chicken thighs for 3 minutes on each side, skin-side down, turning once until golden brown on both sides. Transfer chicken to a plate.
Pour out half of the fat from skillet and add onion and bacon.
Fry and stir for 5 minutes until onion has softened and bacon has crisped.
Add the garlic, paprika and saffron; then cook until fragrant.
Add tomatoes and peppers, then fry until soft.
Add in the broth and wine, then stir to combine well. Salt to season.
Add rice and allow to simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes, while stirring occasionally.
Return the chicken and any juices from the plate to the pan.
Cover with a double layer of foil, then transfer to the oven to bake for 40 minutes.
Uncover the pan and check that rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Change oven setting to broil or on medium-high heat.
Transfer chicken pieces to a clean plate.
Stir peas through the rice, covering them with the hot rice.
Place the chicken back on top of the rice and broil for 10 minutes or until the chicken is golden and crisp, and the peas are cooked through.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 905.22kcal
Fat: 49.95g
Saturated Fat: 14.05g
Trans Fat: 0.21g
Monounsaturated Fat: 21.89g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.63g
Carbohydrates: 62.65g
Fiber: 3.31g
Sugar: 6.64g
Protein: 44.60g
Cholesterol: 213.75mg
Sodium: 1209.54mg
Calcium: 63.72mg
Potassium: 925.55mg
Iron: 3.52mg
Vitamin A: 174.62µg
Vitamin C: 66.36mg

Expert Tip for Achieving Perfectly Crispy Arroz con Pollo

When searing the chicken thighs, ensure the pan is hot but not smoking. This will give the chicken a golden-brown crust without burning it. Also, patting the chicken dry before seasoning and searing helps to achieve a crispier skin. When adding the peas, bury them under the hot rice to allow them to cook through without becoming mushy. Lastly, broiling the chicken at the end of the cooking process will give it a nice, crispy finish.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing One Pan Crispy Arroz con Pollo

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure out ingredients, and prepare everything you can in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pan wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal dishes and cook everything in one pan for easy cleanup.

Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to avoid wasting time searching for utensils and ingredients.

Efficient multitasking: Plan your cooking process to multitask effectively, such as chopping vegetables while something is simmering.

Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and mandolines to speed up prep work and save time.

Substitute Ingredients For One Pan Crispy Arroz Con Pollo Recipe

chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken drumsticks: Chicken drumsticks can be used as a substitute for chicken thighs in this recipe, as they have a similar flavor and texture. However, drumsticks may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.
short cut bacon - Substitute with pancetta: Pancetta can be used as a substitute for bacon in this recipe, providing a similar salty and savory flavor. It adds a delicious depth of flavor to the dish.
long-grain white rice - Substitute with jasmine rice: Jasmine rice can be used as a substitute for long-grain white rice in this recipe. It has a fragrant aroma and a slightly sticky texture when cooked, which complements the flavors of the dish.
fire roasted peppers in garlic - Substitute with roasted red bell peppers: Roasted red bell peppers can be used as a substitute for fire roasted peppers in garlic, adding a smoky and sweet flavor to the dish.
dry white wine - Substitute with chicken broth: If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth can be used as a substitute to deglaze the pan and add depth of flavor to the dish.

Plating Ideas for a Stunning Arroz con Pollo

Elevate the plating: Arrange the crispy arroz con pollo in a circular motion, ensuring the chicken thighs are placed on top of the vibrant, saffron-infused rice.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley to add a pop of color and a hint of earthy freshness.
Incorporate texture: Introduce a contrasting element by adding a delicate sprinkle of smoked paprika over the dish, enhancing both the visual appeal and the flavor profile.
Utilize elegant servingware: Present the one-pan crispy arroz con pollo in a sophisticated, cast iron pan, allowing the rustic charm of the dish to shine through.
Emphasize the golden hue: Ensure the chicken skin is perfectly crisp and golden, creating an enticing visual contrast against the rich, saffron-infused rice.
Balance the composition: Place a small bundle of fire-roasted peppers alongside the dish to add a touch of smoky sweetness and enhance the overall presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Arroz con Pollo

Cast iron pan: A heavy-duty pan that provides even heat distribution and is perfect for searing and baking.
Oven: Used for baking the arroz con pollo to perfection.
Paper towel: Used for patting the chicken dry before seasoning.
Knife: Used for chopping and slicing ingredients.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurate measurement of ingredients.
Foil: Used to cover the pan while baking in the oven.
Spatula: Used for flipping and transferring the chicken.
Tongs: Used for flipping and transferring the chicken.
Mixing spoon: Used for stirring and combining ingredients in the pan.
Oven mitts: Used for handling hot pans and dishes.
Plates: Used for serving the arroz con pollo.
Chopping board: Used for chopping and preparing ingredients.
Grater: Used for grating garlic or other ingredients.
Can opener: Used for opening canned ingredients such as fire roasted peppers.
Aluminum foil: Used to cover the pan while baking in the oven.
Baking dish: Used for baking the arroz con pollo in the oven.
Skillet: Used for frying and cooking the ingredients.
Whisk: Used for mixing and combining ingredients.
Measuring cup: Used for measuring liquids such as chicken broth and wine.
Tongs: Used for flipping and transferring the chicken.
Saucepan: Used for heating the chicken broth and wine.
Serving platter: Used for serving the finished arroz con pollo.

Storing and Freezing Arroz con Pollo for Later Enjoyment

Allow the arroz con pollo to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the rice from becoming mushy and the chicken from becoming soggy.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled arroz con pollo to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you plan to freeze the arroz con pollo, follow these steps:
- Divide the cooled dish into individual portions or family-sized servings.
- Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring there are no air pockets.
- Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality and flavor.
To reheat frozen arroz con pollo:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Transfer the thawed dish to a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
- For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of reheating.
Note: The texture of the rice and chicken may slightly change after freezing and reheating, but the flavor will still be delicious.

The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Arroz con Pollo

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover arroz con pollo to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain the moisture in the rice and keeps the chicken tender.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the leftover arroz con pollo in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. The damp paper towel helps prevent the rice from drying out.
If you want to restore the crispiness of the chicken skin, remove the chicken thighs from the rice and place them skin-side up on a baking sheet. Broil them in the oven for 2-3 minutes or until the skin is crispy. Meanwhile, reheat the rice separately using one of the above methods.
For a stovetop option, place the leftover arroz con pollo in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help moisten the rice, cover the skillet, and heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the arroz con pollo and restore the crispiness of the chicken skin. Place the leftover arroz con pollo in the air fryer basket, set the temperature to 350°F (175°C), and cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through and the skin is crispy.

Fascinating Facts About the Origins of Arroz con Pollo

The dish Arroz con Pollo, a traditional Latin American recipe, is a delicious one-pan meal that combines chicken, rice, and a variety of flavorful ingredients. It is a popular comfort food in many countries and is known for its rich and aromatic flavors.

Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is Arroz con Pollo Cost-Effective?

This one pan crispy arroz con pollo recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The combination of chicken thighs, rice, and vegetables makes it a budget-friendly option. The use of affordable ingredients like onion, garlic, and peas keeps the cost down. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $20, making it an economical choice. The rich flavors and hearty portions make it a satisfying meal. Overall Verdict: 9.

Is Arroz con Pollo a Healthy Dish?

The one pan crispy arroz con pollo recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it does have some aspects that could be considered unhealthy:

The recipe uses chicken thighs, which are higher in fat compared to leaner cuts like chicken breast.
Bacon is used, which is high in saturated fat and sodium.
The recipe calls for white rice, which is a refined carbohydrate and has a higher glycemic index compared to brown rice or other whole grains.
The use of olive oil and the skin-on chicken thighs contribute to the overall fat content of the dish.

However, the recipe also includes some healthy ingredients:

Onions, garlic, and tomatoes provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Fire-roasted peppers add flavor and nutrients without excessive calories.
Peas are a good source of fiber, protein, and various micronutrients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use skinless chicken thighs or replace them with chicken breast to reduce the fat content.
Omit the bacon or use a leaner alternative like turkey bacon to decrease the saturated fat and sodium content.
Replace white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to increase the fiber content and lower the glycemic index.
Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe or use a cooking spray to minimize added fats.
Increase the number of vegetables in the dish, such as adding bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini, to boost the nutrient content and fiber.
Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the overall sodium content of the recipe.

By making these adjustments, you can create a healthier version of the one pan crispy arroz con pollo while still maintaining its delicious flavors and satisfying texture.

Editor's Take: Why This Arroz con Pollo Recipe Stands Out

The recipe for one pan crispy arroz con pollo is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of chicken thighs, bacon, and saffron adds depth and richness to the dish, while the fire-roasted peppers and peas provide a pop of color and freshness. The method of searing the chicken before baking ensures a crispy skin and juicy meat, and the broiling at the end adds a beautiful golden finish. The dish is well-balanced and visually appealing, making it a perfect choice for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Enhance Your One Pan Crispy Arroz Con Pollo Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic and a hint of parmesan cheese, creating the perfect side dish to complement the flavorful arroz con pollo.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, adding a bright and refreshing element to accompany the rich and savory arroz con pollo.

Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Risotto: Indulgent and creamy risotto infused with the deep flavors of caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms, providing a luxurious and comforting side dish to pair with the hearty arroz con pollo.

Delicious Alternatives to Traditional Arroz con Pollo

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and a flavorful broth. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

Citrus Grilled Chicken: Marinated in a zesty citrus blend, this grilled chicken is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for summer cookouts. Serve it with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Mango Coconut Rice Pudding: Creamy coconut rice pudding infused with sweet mango chunks is a delightful dessert that's both refreshing and satisfying. It's a tropical twist on a classic comfort food.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Arroz con Pollo

Appetizers:

Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Savory bacon wrapped around sweet dates creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crispy bacon complements the soft, chewy dates, making it a delightful appetizer for any occasion.

Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves are skewered together and drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing and colorful appetizer that is sure to impress your guests.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a decadent, silky smooth dessert that will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings. This rich and creamy chocolate mousse is the perfect way to end a meal.

Apple Pie: Enjoy the comforting flavors of warm, spiced apples nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. This classic apple pie is a timeless dessert that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why trust this One Pan Crispy Arroz Con Pollo Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of crispy chicken and flavorful arroz con pollo. The use of saffron threads adds a touch of luxury, while the fire roasted peppers in garlic bring a smoky depth to the dish. The method of searing the chicken before baking ensures a succulent and crispy texture. With the aromatic blend of sweet paprika and garlic cloves, this recipe promises a symphony of flavors. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe, and savor the rich and comforting experience it brings to your table.

Share your thoughts on this One Pan Crispy Arroz Con Pollo Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. However, keep in mind that the skin adds flavor and helps keep the meat moist during cooking.

Can I substitute the bacon with something else?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use bacon, you can substitute it with diced ham, pancetta, or even smoked sausage for added flavor.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can use different types of rice, but keep in mind that the cooking time and liquid ratio may vary. Adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed based on the type of rice you choose.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the arroz con pollo ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve. Just make sure to store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I omit the wine from the recipe?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can omit it from the recipe. You can substitute it with additional chicken broth or even a splash of vinegar for a touch of acidity.