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Arroz Con Pollo (Cheesy Chicken and Rice)
A Flavorful One-Pan Dish Featuring Tender Chicken, Savory Rice, and a Melted Cheese Topping for Ultimate Comfort
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into strips or chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- ½ bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt, to taste
For the Cheesy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Mexican blend, cheddar, or Monterey Jack)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken, and season with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and browned.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Rice
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the rice and cook for another 1-2 minutes, letting it lightly toast.
- Add the chicken broth, tomato paste (if using), garlic powder, cumin, and salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
3. Make the Cheesy Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Let the mixture thicken (about 3-5 minutes).
- Once thickened, add the shredded cheese and continue to stir until melted and smooth.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the Dish
- Once the rice is cooked, stir in the cooked chicken.
- Pour the cheesy sauce over the chicken and rice mixture, stirring to combine.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let everything heat through.
5. Serve
- Serve Arroz con Pollo immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions, if desired.
- Enjoy this cheesy, creamy, and comforting dish!
This Arroz con Pollo is the ultimate hearty, cheesy meal and pairs wonderfully with a side of beans or salad. Enjoy! 🌿🍽
