Transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Havana with this traditional Cuban dish, Arroz con Pollo. Tender chicken pieces simmered in a savory blend of spices, nestled in a bed of aromatic rice infused with peppers, onions, and tomatoes. This hearty one-pot meal is a celebration of Cuban culinary heritage, offering a burst of flavors and colors that will delight your taste buds and evoke the spirit of the Caribbean. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, this recipe promises to bring the warmth and richness of Cuban cuisine to your table, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Here's a simple recipe for Cuban Arroz con Pollo:

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, ground cumin, and paprika.

2- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on both sides until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3- In the same skillet, add chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent and peppers are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

4- Stir in diced tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.

5- Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the vegetable mixture.

6- Pour in the chicken broth and water. If using saffron, dissolve it in a tablespoon of warm water and add it to the skillet. Stir well to combine.

7- Nestle the browned chicken pieces into the rice mixture.

8- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender. Check occasionally and add more water if needed to prevent sticking.

9- Once the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes before serving.

10- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious Cuban Arroz con Pollo!

This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or for entertaining guests, bringing the flavors of Cuba right to your table.

Nutritional Values:

Here's an approximate nutritional breakdown for the ingredients in the Arroz con Pollo recipe:

Chicken:

• Chicken is a good source of protein and various vitamins and minerals.
• Nutritional values vary depending on the cut of chicken used (breast, thigh, drumstick, etc.) and whether it's skinless or with skin.
• Per 3 oz (85g) serving of skinless, boneless chicken breast:
• Calories: 120
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Protein source, supports muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals like niacin, phosphorus, and selenium.

White Rice:

• White rice is a staple carbohydrate source.
• Nutritional values are based on cooked long-grain white rice.
• Per 1 cup (195g) cooked white rice:
• Calories: 205
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 0.4g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 0.6g

benefits:

• Provides energy due to its carbohydrate content.
• Low in fat and cholesterol, making it heart-friendly.
• Contains some essential vitamins and minerals like folate and manganese.

Onion:

• Onions are low in calories but rich in antioxidants and other nutrients.
• Per 1 medium onion (110g):
• Calories: 44
• Protein: 1.2g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1.9g

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants that help fight inflammation and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Good source of fiber, which supports digestive health.
• Provides vitamins C and B6, which are important for immune function and metabolism.

Bell Pepper:

• Bell peppers are low in calories and high in vitamin C and other antioxidants.
• Per 1 medium bell pepper (119g):
• Calories: 30
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0.3g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 2.5g

benefits:

• High in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune health and collagen production.
• Contains vitamin A, which is beneficial for eye health and vision.
• Provides fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.

Garlic:

• Garlic is low in calories and contains vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and vitamin B6.
• Per 1 clove (3g):
• Calories: 4
• Protein: 0.2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0.1g

benefits:

• Has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which may help boost the immune system and fight infections.
• Contains antioxidants that protect against cell damage and may reduce the risk of certain cancers.
• Supports heart health by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

Tomato:

• Tomatoes are low in calories and rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
• Per 1 medium tomato (123g):
• Calories: 22
• Protein: 1.1g
• Fat: 0.2g
• Carbohydrates: 4.8g
• Fiber: 1.5g

benefits:

• Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that may reduce the risk of certain cancers and promote heart health.
• Contains vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health.
• Provides potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.

Chicken Broth:

• Chicken broth adds flavor and moisture to the dish.
• Nutritional values depend on the specific brand and type of chicken broth used.
• Per 1 cup (240mL) of canned chicken broth:
• Calories: 15-20
• Protein: 2-3g
• Fat: 0-1g
• Carbohydrates: 1-2g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Hydrating and provides electrolytes like sodium and potassium.
• Contains gelatin, which supports joint health and may aid digestion.
• Helps maintain hydration and may relieve cold symptoms.

Olive Oil:

• Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats and contains antioxidants.
• Per 1 tablespoon (15mL) of olive oil:
• Calories: 120
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Healthy monounsaturated fats promote heart health and reduce inflammation.
• Contains antioxidants that protect against oxidative damage and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Supports brain health and cognitive function.

Saffron (optional):

• Saffron adds color and flavor to the dish but is used in small amounts.
• Per 1 teaspoon (0.7g):
• Calories: 2
• Protein: 0.1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0.5g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Contains compounds like crocin and safranal, which have antioxidant properties and may improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
• Used traditionally for its medicinal properties, including improving digestion and reducing inflammation.
• Adds color and flavor to dishes without adding calories or unhealthy ingredients.

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as cooking methods and specific ingredients used.