Lunch & Dinner

Cuban Chicken and Rice Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Name: Cuban Chicken and Rice Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1/3 cup olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 1 medium green bell pepper, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 8 oz tomato puree; 1 packet Sazon Goya con Azafran; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; 1 bay leaf; 3/4 cup dry white wine; 7 oz jarred whole red pimientos, diced; 5 cups water, divided; 1 chicken bouillon cube; 3 cups long-grain white rice, washed and drained; 1/2 cup frozen peas; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Martha Adams December 30, 2024

Servings: 6 Total Time: 55 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before we delve into the heart of this delightful dish, let’s chat about what you can pair with Cuban chicken and rice. The beauty of this meal lies in its versatility. When you serve it, you might consider a side of fried plantains, which offer a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.

Black beans are another excellent choice, creating a traditional Cuban vibe. If you prefer something crunchy, a simple green salad with lime vinaigrette will brighten the plate.

And for those interested in more vibrant flavors, a cucumber and tomato salad can enhance your experience. Now that we set the stage, let’s dive deeper into the story behind this warm and inviting meal.

What is Cuban Chicken and Rice?

At its core, Cuban chicken and rice, or “Arroz con Pollo,” marries marinated chicken with hearty rice in a flavorful broth. The vibrant spices and fresh vegetables elevate the dish, transporting you to the sun-soaked streets of Havana.

Unlike other chicken and rice dishes that lack spices, this one boasts a symphony of flavors, highlighting the culinary traditions of Cuba.

What Does It Taste Like?

Imagine if your taste buds could dance. The combination of savory chicken, fragrant rice, and fresh herbs creates an explosion of flavor. The spices—cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika—add warmth, while the cilantro provides brightness.

As the rice absorbs all those delightful seasonings, every forkful is filled with richness. You won’t just be eating; you’ll be devouring a slice of Cuban culture.

Why This Recipe Works?

Flavor-packed Ingredients: Using fresh herbs and spices ensures that every bite explodes with taste. Cumin and smoked paprika herald a deep, earthy flavor, while cilantro adds a refreshing zing.
Easy Preparation: This dish consolidates preparation steps, making it simple enough for a weeknight meal. With just a few steps, you’re on your way to a culinary masterpiece.
Nutrient-rich: The inclusion of veggies and herbs not only enhances flavor but adds nutritional value too. You’re feeding your body while treating your palate.
Versatility: This recipe can be adjusted based on your personal taste. Make it spicy with some jalapeños. Swap in your favorite chicken cuts, or even adapt it for a vegetarian palette.

Ingredients for Cuban Chicken and Rice

To bring this wonderful dish to life, you will need:

2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks)
1/3 cup olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
1 medium green bell pepper, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
8 oz tomato puree
1 packet Sazon Goya con Azafran (or 1 teaspoon Bijol or annatto powder)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
1 bay leaf
3/4 cup dry white wine
7 oz jarred whole red pimientos, diced
5 cups water, divided
1 chicken bouillon cube
3 cups long-grain white rice, washed and drained
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken. In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and paprika. Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes; if you have time, refrigerating for a few hours allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green pepper. Cook until they soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic for the last minute so it doesn’t burn. The fragrant mix will start to form the foundation of your dish.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the marinated chicken pieces, skin-side down, and brown for about 6-7 minutes on each side. This step adds depth to the flavor and a beautiful coloration to the chicken.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once browned, pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits with a wooden spoon—those bits are flavor gold! Add the tomato puree, Sazon, pimientos, and bay leaf. Stir it all together and allow it to cook for about 5 more minutes, invigorating the ingredients with the heat.

Step 5: Add Rice

Pour in the water and add the chicken bouillon cube, followed by the rinsed rice. Stir gently but don’t overdo it—just enough to incorporate everything. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.

Step 6: Simmer

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes. Make sure you don’t lift the lid too often! The rice needs that steam to cook perfectly.

Step 7: Final Touches

Once the rice is tender, stir in the frozen peas and chopped cilantro. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. This final step brightens the dish with color and flavor.

Notes

Here are some tips to ensure your Cuban chicken and rice shines:

Quality Chicken: Opt for good quality, bone-in, skin-on thighs. They provide rich flavor and stay moist during cooking.
Fresh Herbs: Always use fresh cilantro if possible. Dried varieties lack the same vibrant essence.
Watch the Liquid: Depending on your rice type and the pot you use, you may need more or less liquid. Adjust as necessary.
Don’t Rush the Browning: Allowing the chicken to brown properly enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking. It helps in settling the flavors.

How to Store the Leftovers?

Leftovers can be a lifesaver. Allow the chicken and rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions. When reheating, add a splash of water to avoid drying out the rice.

Sides for Cuban Chicken and Rice

Enhance your meal with these complementary sides:

Fried Plantains: Their sweet flavor and crispy texture provide a delightful contrast to the savory chicken.
Black Beans: A staple in Cuban cuisine, they add hearty fiber and white, creamy texture.
Avocado Salad: Creamy avocados paired with a light lime dressing create refreshing balance.
Cilantro Lime Rice: For rice lovers, this can be a perfect blend with a zest that ties in beautifully with the main dish.

Alternative Choices for the Ingredients

If you’ve found that your pantry is missing something, consider these alternatives:

Chicken Cuts: If you don’t have chicken thighs, chicken breasts work, but be mindful they cook quicker. Adjust your cooking time accordingly.
White Wine: You can substitute it with chicken broth or even apple cider vinegar mixed with a bit of water if you want to avoid alcohol.
Sazon Goya: A homemade version can be made using paprika, garlic powder, and cumin if you can’t find a packet.
Rice Type: Long grain is ideal, but you can use brown rice with an adjustment of water and cooking time for added nutrition.

Conclusion

Cuban chicken and rice is more than just a meal; it is a journey through flavor, tradition, and community. When you gather around the table to share this dish, you’re creating memories infused with warmth. I encourage you to try this recipe yourself.

You’ll find it not only brings flavor to your palate but also joy to your home. Each drop of broth and each grain of rice tells a story. So, are you ready to try your hand at this flavorful dish? Let the cooking adventure begin!

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Print Recipe

Cuban Chicken and Rice Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Author: Martha Adams Cuisine: Cuban Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 40 mins Total Time 55 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 422 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

As I sat down at a little Cuban bistro during a recent trip, I couldn't help but marvel at the rich smell wafting from the kitchen. The tantalizing aroma of spices blended with the earthy scent of rice.

It was my first taste of Cuban chicken and rice, a dish that stole my heart with every bite. The combination of flavors is a story of culture, comfort, and culinary delight. This dish doesn't just fill your stomach; it tells a tale of tradition, community, and love.

While enjoying that meal, I had an epiphany. Why not recreate this magic at home? With a few tried-and-true steps, I knew I could bring that bistro experience straight to my kitchen—and share it with you. So grab your aprons; let’s get cooking!