RecipesUruguayArroz con Pollo Uruguayo

Arroz con Pollo Uruguayo

A comforting and flavorful one-pot dish of chicken and rice, infused with aromatic vegetables and spices, a staple in Uruguayan homes.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Servings6
DifficultyMedium
Arroz con Pollo Uruguayo - Uruguay traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 1.5 kg Chicken pieces(mixed (thighs, drumsticks, breasts))
  • 3 tbsp Olive oil
  • 2 medium Onions(chopped)
  • 2 medium Bell peppers(1 red, 1 green, chopped)
  • 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
  • 400 g Tomatoes(crushed or diced)
  • 4 cups Chicken broth
  • 2 cups Rice(medium-grain)
  • 0.5 tsp Saffron threads(or 1 tsp turmeric for color)
  • 1 cup Peas(frozen or fresh)
  • 0.5 cup Parsley(chopped, for garnish)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

    💡 Tip: Ensure even seasoning
  2. 2

    Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown chicken pieces on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.

  3. 3

    Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the pot. Sauté until softened.

  4. 4

    Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  5. 5

    Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and saffron (or turmeric). Bring to a simmer.

    💡 Tip: If using saffron, steep it in a little warm broth for 5 minutes before adding.
  6. 6

    Return the browned chicken to the pot. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.

  7. 7

    Stir in the rice. Ensure the rice is submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

    💡 Tip: Avoid stirring too much once rice is added to prevent mushiness.
  8. 8

    Stir in the peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

  9. 9

    Let the dish rest for 5 minutes, covered, before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

💡 Pro Tips

  • For a richer flavor, you can add a bay leaf while simmering.
  • Adjust the amount of liquid based on the type of rice used.
  • Some variations include adding olives or pimientos for extra flavor.

🔄 Variations

  • Add chorizo or other cured sausage for a smoky flavor.
  • Incorporate a splash of white wine with the tomatoes.
  • Serve with a side of chimichurri sauce.

🏷️ Tags