How to Make Spanish Arroz con Pollo y Verduras: Chicken and Vegetable Paella

How to Make Spanish Arroz con Pollo y Verduras: Chicken and Vegetable Paella

• What is Arroz con Pollo y Verduras?
• Essential Ingredients for Chicken and Vegetable Paella
• Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Arroz con Pollo y Verduras
• Tips for Perfecting Your Arroz con Pollo
• Why Rubi Spanish Table Offers the Best Spanish Ingredients

Arroz con Pollo y Verduras, or Chicken and Vegetable Paella, is a flavorful and satisfying Spanish dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic spices, and vibrant vegetables over a bed of perfectly cooked rice. It’s a classic meal often served in family gatherings or special occasions, but it’s easy to make at home for a comforting dinner. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of creating this delicious dish, share some helpful cooking tips, and tell you how to bring out the best flavors in your Arroz con Pollo.

La Cuchara

BaltimoreMaryland

3600 Clipper Mill Rd, Baltimore, MD 21211, USA

1. What is Arroz con Pollo y Verduras?

Arroz con Pollo, literally meaning "rice with chicken," is a traditional Spanish dish that has many regional variations. The addition of verduras (vegetables) takes this classic to the next level, making it a hearty, well-rounded meal. The key to Arroz con Pollo y Verduras is the balance of flavors – from the savory chicken and vegetables to the rich, slightly smoky taste of saffron or paprika in the rice.

While this dish is similar to paella, it's more adaptable and can be made with various vegetables depending on availability. The most common ingredients include bell peppers, tomatoes, peas, and sometimes carrots or green beans. Paella-style rice, such as Bomba rice, is preferred as it absorbs the flavorful broth without becoming mushy.

La Vieja Castilla

Blue IslandCook CountyIllinois

13023 Western Ave, Blue Island, IL 60406, USA

2. Essential Ingredients for Chicken and Vegetable Paella

To make a delicious Arroz con Pollo y Verduras, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s a list of the essentials:

• Chicken thighs or drumsticks: The bone-in pieces add more flavor to the dish compared to boneless chicken.
• Paella rice: Bomba rice is ideal for its ability to absorb liquids without losing texture.
• Vegetables: Bell peppers, peas, tomatoes, and carrots provide both color and taste.
• Broth: A good-quality chicken broth is crucial for infusing the rice with flavor.
• Spices: Saffron is the star spice here, providing its characteristic color and fragrance. Paprika and garlic also bring depth to the dish.
• Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for cooking the chicken and vegetables.

Once you have your ingredients, you’re ready to start cooking this flavorful Spanish meal!

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Arroz con Pollo y Verduras

Now, let’s break down the steps to prepare Arroz con Pollo y Verduras, ensuring each part is cooked to perfection. Follow these easy steps for a dish that will impress anyone:

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or paella pan over medium-high heat. Add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil. Season the chicken thighs or drumsticks with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Brown the chicken on all sides until golden brown. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant. Add the tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the juices to release. The goal is to develop a flavorful base for the rice.

Step 3: Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the paella rice and let it toast slightly in the pan for about a minute. Add the chicken broth, saffron, and paprika. Stir everything together and return the chicken to the pan, skin-side up. Bring the liquid to a boil and then reduce to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook

Cover the pan and let the dish simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed the liquid and the chicken is fully cooked. Avoid stirring the rice during this process – this will help the rice develop the signature crispy layer at the bottom, known as “socarrat” in Spanish cuisine.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

Once the rice is cooked, add peas and any additional vegetables you like, such as green beans or carrots. Cover and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

4. Tips for Perfecting Your Arroz con Pollo

To take your Arroz con Pollo y Verduras to the next level, consider these tips:

1. Use Bone-In Chicken

Bone-in chicken adds more flavor and moisture to the dish, making it juicier and more tender. If you're in a rush, boneless chicken works too, but the flavor won’t be as rich.

2. Experiment with Vegetables

Feel free to play around with different vegetables based on what’s in season. Fresh artichokes, zucchini, or even olives can be added for a unique twist.

3. Rest the Dish

After cooking, let the dish rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and the rice to firm up, making it easier to serve and enjoy.

5. Why Rubi Spanish Table Offers the Best Spanish Ingredients

If you want to make the best Arroz con Pollo y Verduras, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients. At Rubi Spanish Table, we offer a wide range of authentic Spanish ingredients to help you create the perfect dish. From premium paella rice to fragrant saffron, we have everything you need to bring the rich flavors of Spain to your home kitchen.

Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner, our carefully selected products will make your cooking experience seamless and enjoyable. Explore our collection at Rubi Spanish Table and elevate your cooking game today!