Easy Arroz Con Pollo Dish

This Easy Arroz con Pollo is a Mexican inspired comfort meal that brings tender, seasoned chicken together with vibrant peppers, onions, and flavorful Spanish rice. Topped with creamy queso, it comes together quickly and hits all the right notes for an affordable and satisfying dinner.

I first discovered this recipe while craving that classic Mexican restaurant flavor but wanting something homemade. Now it’s my go-to when I want comfort and speed in one dish.

Ingredients

• Red and green bell peppers: for sweetness and crunch pick firm, vibrant peppers without soft spots
• Yellow onion: to add savory depth and sweetness as it cooks
• Chicken breast or tenders: offer lean protein. Boneless skinless thighs also work for juiciness
• Queso sauce: adds creamy richness and a comforting topping. A good quality store-bought jar saves time
• Green chiles: bring a mild heat and smoky flavor. You can leave these out if you prefer less spice
• Chipotle sauce: for smoky spice. Choose a can from the Mexican aisle or use a milder taco sauce if you prefer
• Fajita seasoning: blends spices needed for the classic flavor homemade or store-bought both work well
• Spanish style rice: forms the base. Pick your favorite brand or make your own for freshness
• Chopped cilantro: provides a fresh, herbaceous finish if you enjoy the flavor

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables:

In a medium skillet over medium heat, add your chopped red and green bell peppers, sliced yellow onion, and a splash of avocado oil. Cook gently for about six minutes stirring occasionally until the veggies soften and start to caramelize, releasing their sweetness and creating a flavorful foundation.

Cook the Chicken:

Add the chicken pieces to the skillet with the peppers and onion. Cook for four to seven minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. This tenderizes the chicken while allowing the flavors to blend beautifully with the vegetables.

Add Seasonings and Sauces:

Pour in approximately one eighth cup of queso sauce, along with the green chiles, chipotle sauce, and fajita seasoning. Stir everything thoroughly until combined, so each piece of chicken and vegetable is evenly coated with the smoky, cheesy, and spicy goodness.

Assemble and Serve:

Plate a generous portion of Spanish rice on a serving dish. Spoon the chicken, peppers, and onions over the rice. Drizzle additional queso sauce over the top as desired and sprinkle chopped cilantro for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately while warm.

One of my favorite parts of this recipe is the creamy queso topping which really elevates the whole dish. The first time I made it, my family was surprised at how close it tasted to restaurant quality but with the comfort of homemade. It quickly became a requested meal on busy nights.

Storage Tips

Store Arroz con Pollo leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a little water or broth to keep the rice moist and the chicken tender. This will help avoid drying out the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have queso sauce handy, try a blend of shredded cheese and a little milk warmed until melty for a quick homemade substitute. Chicken thighs can be swapped for chicken breast if you like juicier meat. If you cannot find Spanish rice, opt for long grain white rice cooked with a bit of tomato sauce, garlic, and onion powder for a similar flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Arroz con Pollo with warm corn or flour tortillas so everyone can make little wraps. A side of fresh guacamole or sliced avocado adds creaminess and balances the spices well. Crispy tortilla chips and salsa make a nice crunchy side and add an extra layer of texture.

This Easy Arroz con Pollo is a quick, comforting weeknight meal that tastes like restaurant fare while staying family friendly. It’s perfect for busy nights and doubles well for meal prep.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What sides pair well with Arroz con Pollo?

Warm tortillas, guacamole or sliced avocado, black or refried beans, fresh garden salad with lime vinaigrette, and crispy tortilla chips all complement this hearty dish well.

→ Where can I find queso sauce in the store?

Look for shelf-stable jars in the Mexican ingredients aisle or check the refrigerated section near cheeses or specialty Mexican items.

→ Which rice works best for this dish?

Spanish-style rice brands like Great Value or Uncle Ben’s are convenient options, or you can prepare a homemade Spanish rice base for richer flavor.

→ Can I substitute fajita seasoning?

Taco seasoning works as a great alternative if fajita seasoning isn’t available, either store-bought or homemade.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftovers refrigerated and consume within 5 days for best freshness and taste.