Arroz de Frango com Legumes
A flavorful one-pot dish combining tender chicken pieces with rice and a medley of vegetables, seasoned with local spices. This is a popular and satisfying meal that showcases the blend of African and Portuguese influences in Guinea-Bissau's cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 pound Chicken thighs(boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1.5 cups Long-grain rice(rinsed)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 medium Bell pepper(any color, chopped)
- 2 medium Carrots(diced)
- 0.5 cup Tomatoes(diced, fresh or canned)
- 3 cups Chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
- 2
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Stir in the diced carrots and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- 4
Add the tomato paste, paprika, and cumin. Stir well and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 5
Return the browned chicken to the pot. Add the rinsed rice, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- 6
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- 7
Let the pot stand, covered, for 5-10 minutes off the heat. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra flavor, you can add a bay leaf to the pot while simmering.
- ✓Ensure the rice is rinsed well to remove excess starch, which can make the dish gummy.
- ✓Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans.
- Use different cuts of chicken, such as bone-in pieces (adjust cooking time accordingly).
- A pinch of chili flakes can be added for a touch of heat.